Background: Depression is a major ongoing problem with cancer patients and survivors. Depression can lead to functional impairment, decreased utilization of treatment, decreased quality of life and increased suicide risk. It also leads to an extended hospital stay and increased cost of treatment. Previous studies have shown that lung cancer has a high incidence for depression.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for the year 2016. Patients who were admitted with a principal diagnosis of Malignant Neoplasm of Bronchus and Lung (MNBL) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) were identified using ICD-10 codes. The prevalence of MDD and the risk factors contributing to MDD were studied. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA tool and tested with Pierson Chi-Square test.

Results: A total of 79096 hospitalizations with a principal diagnosis of MNBL were identified. The prevalence of depression among lung cancer patients was found to be 12.49% (n = 9881). The mean age of lung cancer patients with depression was 62.27 ± 0.10. Females with lung cancer have more risk for MDD (15%, p < 0.001). Caucasian patients with lung cancer have a higher risk of MDD (13.6%, p < 0.001). It was also found that lung cancer patients who are ≤ 55 years have a higher risk of MDD (p < 0.001). The average length of stay for lung cancer patients with MDD was slightly higher than lung cancer patients without MDD (6.39 days and 5.99 days respectively). The average cost of stay also had a similar pattern. Severe morbidity was seen in a greater proportion of the MDD group.

Conclusions: Younger patients who are ≤ 55 years of age, Caucasians or females with lung cancer have a higher risk of MDD. Particular attention should be given to them while being in the hospital which can decrease the morbidity, and will also help to improve their quality of life.