A Comprehensive Analysis: Depression in Adolescents and Young Adults with Leukemia: A Systematic Review

Abstract : This study focuses on the prevalence of depression among patients suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These two forms of leukemia most commonly affect our target population: adolescents and young adult leukemia survivors (AYA-LS) – a population defined as individuals diagnosed with leukemia between the ages of 12 to 39 years old. Although current literature has employed various assessment tools to evaluate comorbidities like depression and anxiety among LS, these measures have limitations. Such limitations include potential assessment bias stemming from oncologists’ focus on pathology and psychiatrists’ inability to address the distinct suffering experienced by this population fully. For this reason, this study recognizes the age-specific differences in cancer, particularly those diagnosed at a young age. Thus, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to address the mental health needs of AYA-LS. This consolidation and review of research holds the potential to advance support and intervention strategies, ultimately enhancing the mental health and overall quality of life for young adult leukemia survivors. This study relies on electronic databases such as EBSCOhost, the British Journal of Cancer, PubMed, Google Scholar, and publications from the Saint James School of Medicine (SJSM).