Depression among women with cervical cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence
Abstract
Background: Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Cervical cancer remains a significant global health challenge, particularly affecting women in low- and middle-income countries. Beyond its physical implications, cervical cancer is associated with a high prevalence of depression, which adversely impacts patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes. Understanding the global prevalence and associated factors of depression among women with cervical cancer is essential for developing targeted mental health interventions and improving comprehensive cancer care. The definition and "cutting point" (threshold) of depression is a critical piece of psychiatric literature. It challenges the medical assumption that Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a discrete, biological category that one either "has" or "does not have."
Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to PRISMA guidelines to assess the pooled prevalence of depression among women with cervical cancer worldwide. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and other databases up to February 05 ,2026. Studies included were original, English-language research employing cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, or descriptive designs that reported prevalence data. Data from 20 eligible articles involving 23,825 participants were extracted and analysed using STATA version 17. A random-effects model estimated the pooled…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 23,825 participants or records.
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