A randomized controlled trial of group cognitive behavioral therapy for Chinese breast cancer patients with major depression

Background: This study aims to evaluate the effects of Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (GCBT) in treating major depression in Chinese women with breast cancer. Methods: Sixty-two breast cancer patients diagnosed with major depression were randomly assigned to GCBT group (N=31) or a waiting list control group provided with an educational booklet (N=31). The primary outcome measure was the 17-Item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (17-HAMD). The second outcome measures were Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Breast and Self-Esteem Scale (SES). Assessments were carried out at completion of the study and six-month afterwards. Results: Patients in the GCBT group had a significant reduction in the 17-HAMD mean score by 9 points (p<0.001), more than any reduction among patients in the control group from baseline to the end of therapy and a significant 7 points (p<0.001) more reduction from baseline to six-month follow-up. GCBT also yielded significantly greater improvement than the control group with regard to quality of life (QoL; p<0.01) and self-esteem (p<0.05). No significant differences were found between groups on improving anxiety (p>0.05). Conclusion: The results of this trial suggest that GCBT is effective for treating major depression, as well as for improving QoL and self-esteem in breast cancer patients.