Prevalence of Depression Among Iranian Women with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Depression is common among breast cancer (BC) patients. Several studies have evaluated the prevalence of depression among BC patients in Iran. Hence, in order to have more in-depth knowledge regarding its prevalence, all available studies were systematically reviewed and their data were analyzed using a meta-analysis. A systematic search was conducted to find all published studies on the prevalence of depression in BC patients in the international databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, and Web of Sciences), and Iranian databases (Scientific Information Database, MagIran, IranMedex, and IranDoc) until February 2016. This systematic review was done according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. In total, nine eligible papers (out of 240) were entered into the analysis. The overall prevalence of depression in BC patients was 44% (95% CI: 35% - 52%). The results of Cochran’s test showed the heterogeneity of the studies (Q = 1678.2, df = 8, I2 = 89.4%, P < 0.001). BC patients are at risk of depression; hence, its detection is of utmost importance in clinical practice.