Use of the Multicriteria Decision Making Method in Establishing the Consequences of Breast Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Objective: We present in this paper the results of multicriteria ranking of risk factors for depression, anxiety and stress in women with breast cancer. Method: The PROMETHEE/GAIA method was used for ranking purposes, with additional optimization of alternatives using the PROMETHEE method with inherent limitations. Results: Almost 50% of women with early breast cancer experienced depression, anxiety or both in the period of one year after the diagnosis; 25% in the second, third and fourth year; and 15% in the fifth year. Long-term depression and anxiety were associated with prior psychological treatment, absence of an intimate, confident relationship, younger age and severely stressful (non-cancer) events in life. A lack of intimate support in confidence also predicted prolonged episodes of depression and anxiety. Conclusion: Increased levels of depression, anxiety or both in the first year after the diagnosis of early breast cancer indicate the need for special support services during that period. Psychological intervention for women with breast cancer who no longer have the disease should take into account a broader social context of cancer occurrence, with a focus on the improvement of social support.