An Evaluation of Adjuvant Psychological Therapy (APT) Effectiveness on the Quality of Life of Patients with Hematologic Malignancies

Abstract

Adjuvant Psychological Therapy (APT) is one of the therapeutic methods derived from cognitive-behavioral therapy that enhances cancer patients’ quality of life specifically through reducing their mental disorders and boosting their fighting spirit. Considering the effectiveness of this short-term structural therapy on cancer patients in the studies conducted abroad, the present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of APT on patients with Hematologic Malignancies. The study population comprised of patients with Hematologic Malignancies referring to Ayatollah Taleghani Medical Training Center from March 2015 to March 2016. Five testees were selected through convenience sampling method. Each testee filled out the quality-of-life questionnaire for cancer patients (QOQ-C30) in two baseline sessions, one every two weeks during the therapy, and one as a follow-up session (one month later). Descriptive statistical indices, graphical analysis, Friedman nonparametric test, and Wilcoxon test were used for data analysis. The obtained results indicate a significant improvement in quality of life of patients with Hematologic Malignancies. It can thus be concluded that APT can help patients with their adaptability to cancer as well as the treatment of their cancer and, as a result, reducing their mental distress. We Hypothesized APT by concentrating on behavioral, cognitive, interpersonal and emotion dimensions enhance both of psychological and physical sides of quality of life in patients with hematologic malignancies.