Depression and stressors in children with Cancer in Jakarta: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to identify the predictors of depression in children with cancer in Jakarta, Indonesia. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 72 children aged 7 to 18 years who received at Dharmasi Cancer Hospital, Jakarta. The Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), consisting of 27 items, assessed the children's feelings and thoughts. Each item was rated on a scale of 0-2, with total scores ranging from 0-54, which were used to determine the level of depression. Data were analyzed using an independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that the primary factors associated with depression were negative self-image (42%), self-rejection (41%), doubt (40.5%), doubts about relationships with peers (31%), and physical issues (28%). Among the respondents, 72.2% showed no signs of depression, 11.1% exhibited mild depression, 9.7% had major depression and 6.9% experienced moderate depression. A significant difference in depression levels was observed based on gender, age, and duration of treatment (p<0.05). The findings highlight that children with cancer are at an increased risk of psychological distress, including anxiety and depression. Effective communication with healthcare providers is essential to identifying the underlying causes of these symptoms and formulating appropriate interventions.