Effects of Non-pharmacological Intervention on Depression among Patients with Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) on depression among patients with lung cancer. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted focusing on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies. A literature search was performed through PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and five Korean databases in November 2020. Data were analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Ver. 3.0 and Review Manager Ver. 5.4 programs. Results: A total of 37 studies, including 25 RCTs and 12 quasi-experimental studies, were identified; 27 studies reported data suitable for meta-analysis. In meta-analysis, the overall effect sizes for NPIs of RCTs and quasi-experimental studies were -0.61 (95% confidence interval (CI): -0.90, -0.31) and -0.40 (95% CI: -0.59, -0.21), respectively. Among the types of NPI in RCTs, the effect size of psychological therapy was the largest with -0.68 (95% CI: -1.13, -0.23). In addition, information & communication technology (ICT) had a larger effect size of -0.68 (95% CI: -1.13, -0.23), compared to face-to-face intervention. Conclusion: NPIs may have a significant effect in reducing depressive symptoms in patients with lung cancer. It is suggested that further studies develop and apply structured NPIs considering intervention components such as type and mode of ICT delivery.