Mind and cancer: Is there a relationship? A review of evidence

Author(s): Kidman, A. D.

Journal/Book: Aust Psychol. 1997; 32: 1 Grattan Street, Carlton Victoria 3053, Australia. Australian Psychological Soc. 79-85.

Abstract: There is a common public perception that cancer is at least partly affected by psychological factors. Stress, negative attitudes, and personal crises have been cited as causes of the disease or reasons for its progression, while positive attitudes and relaxation have been suggested as possible cures. In the last two decades, research in the newly emerged field of psyche-oncology has begun to investigate the possibility of such a relationship. There is some evidence that factors such as helplessness, hopelessness, emotional suppression, and social isolation may be associated with a higher incidence of cancer onset and poorer survival outcome. However, the large number of contradictory findings, and frequent methodological weaknesses within the research, make these findings inconclusive.

Note: Review Edelman S, Univ Technol Sydney, Neurobiol Res Unit, Westbourne St, Gore Hill, Sydney, NSW 2065, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): BREAST-CANCER; IMMUNE FUNCTION; SOCIAL SUPPORT; PSYCHOLOGICAL RESPONSE; PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS; MALIGNANT-MELANOMA; LIFE EVENTS; FOLLOW-UP; LYMPHOCYTE FUNCTION; ESCAPABLE SHOCK

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