Cancer and depression in older adults

Background: Oncological diseases lead to the expression of multiple adverse reactions, which can be physical or mental. Objective: To determine the association between adverse reactions in older people undergoing oncological treatment and depression. Method: Observational design, retrospective cohort type. The population consisted of men aged 60 years or older with cancer. Depression was analysed as a risk factor in the presentation of adverse reactions to oncological treatment. Results: A total of 24.62% (n = 277) presented adverse reactions to treatment. A mean of 2.89 was found in the Yesavage score, finding an increase in the questionnaire in relation to the number of adverse reactions. This correlation was quantified in a linear regression model adjusted for sociodemographic and geriatric assessment variables, finding a β coefficient of 1.99 with a 95% confidence interval of 1.13-3.22 (p < 0.01), and in a model adjusted for oncological assessment variables, calculating a β coefficient of 1.32 with a 95% confidence interval of 1.13-1.79 (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Adverse reactions were associated with an even higher score on the Yesavage questionnaire, which would suggest a relationship between depression and greater adverse reactions.