Psychological and Social Impact of Announcing Cancer Diagnosis in a Moroccan Oncology Unit: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background The way a cancer diagnosis is communicated plays a decisive role in a patient’s adherence to treatment, quality of life, risk of complications, and long-term prognosis. In Morocco, however, serious systemic and cultural barriers persist, making the diagnosis announcement a fragmented theand, for many patients, emotionally distressing process. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 100 patients with cancer who were treated at Ibn Rochd University Hospital between October 2023 and January 2024. Participants were assessed using a socio-demographic and medical history questionnaire. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to screen psychological distress and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) to assess patients’ support networks. Results The population covered in the study was 57.8 years of age on average, of which the largest number were females (63%). The most frequent forms of cancer were breast (40%), lung (19%), and digestive tract tumors (19%). Most of the patients (78%) were diagnosed at non-metastatic stages, whereas 22% were diagnosed with metastatic disease. Regarding announcing diagnosis practices: 95% of patients received their diagnosis in a face-to-face consultation. Thirty-eight percent required more than three consultations to fully understand their diagnosis, 74% reported that their physician used clear and appropriate language. However, 79% felt that healthcare providers did not actively listen to their concerns. Concerning treatment discussions: 79% reported that they had sufficient time to discuss their care plan. Yet, 85% believed the proposed treatment did not align with their expectations. Psychologically, 60% exhibited clinically significant anxiety symptoms, and 53% showed signs of depression. Social support levels were moderate (72%), high (25%), or low (3%). Conclusion Our findings highlight critical gaps in Morocco’s current approach to announcing diagnosis cancer. A structured three-phase protocol is important to standardize and humanize this process: Comprehensive disclosure of the diagnosis consultation (ensuring clarity, empathy, patient comprehension).