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The psychological factors that influence a diagnosis of cancer and vice versa are only beginning to be explored and understood. Just how much does the impact of a diagnosis of depression impact the long-term survival of an individual? This question is the subject of a study in the current Psychosomatic Medicine.
Researchers from University of Rochester looked at a number of factors including demographic, medical, cancer treatment, and psychological factors to predict longevity in a group of 205 cancer patients over a 10-year period. They examined a number of psychological factors such as emotional state and coping, including positive and negative mood, anxiety, stress, sense of control, and depressive symptoms. After accounting for the effects of known demographic, medical risk, and cancer treatment factors, results showed that symptoms of depression were the most consistent psychological predictor of shortened survival.
The authors suggest that a more careful psychological screening, especially in the first year after a diagnosis of cancer is made, would be optimal. After appropriate screening, referrals for psychotherapy or other treatments can make a significant difference in the quality of life as well as an individual's longevity.
They conclude, by pointing out that since data shows the importance of depressive symptoms to cancer survival, it is now time to focus on the "possible mechanisms mediating this relationship, the importance of psychological screening of cancer patients, and need for further research."
Psychosomatic Medicine 65:636-643 (2003)
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