Distress in cancer patients: Who are the main groups at risk?

Objectives: Psychosocial distress is common in cancer patients and survivors and encompasses a broad range of concerns and psychological symptoms. The aim of the current study was to identify subgroups of respondents who experience a specific constellation of distress symptoms. Methods: This study uses data from a large data base (n = 21 680) of cancer patients from diverse settings who provided data in the Questionnaire on Distress in Cancer Patients—Short Form (QSC-R10). Cluster analysis was applied to identify subgroups with a distinct constellation of distress symptoms. Results: The results showed five distinct clusters: minimally distressed patients (46.6% of the sample), highly distressed patients (12.7%), mainly physically distressed patients (15.2%), mainly psychologically distressed patients (15.6%), and mainly socially distressed patients (9.9%). These groups differed with regard to age, sex, cancer site, treatment setting, and disease progression. Conclusion: The results revealed large heterogeneity in the experience of distress. Distress clusters were associated with socio-demographic and clinical variables. These associations might aid a clinician to tailor interventions and to address specific types of distress.