Psychosocial influences on cancer incidence and progression

Author(s): Kato, P. M.

Journal/Book: Harvard Rev Psychiatr. 1996; 4: 11830 Westline Industrial Dr, St Louis, MO 63146-3318. Mosby-Year Book Inc. 10-26.

Abstract: The impact of psychosocial factors on the incidence and progression of cancer has become an area that demands attention. In this article recent evidence of psychosocial effects on cancer incidence and progression is reviewed in the context of past research. Psychosocial factors discussed include personality, depression, emotional expression, social support, and stress. Mechanisms that could mediate the relationship between psychosocial conditions and cancer incidence and progression are also reviewed. These include alterations in diet, exercise, and circadian cycles; variations in medical treatment received; and physiological mechanisms such as psychoendocrinologic and psychoneuroimmunologic effects. We conclude that there is a nonrandom relationship among various psychosocial factors and cancer incidence and progression that can only partially be explained by behavioral, structural, or biological factors. Suggestions for future research are discussed.

Note: Review D Spiegel, Stanford Univ, Sch Med, Dept Psychiat & Behav Sci, 401 Quarry Rd, Stanford, CA 94305 USA

Keyword(s): KILLER-CELL ACTIVITY; STRUCTURED PSYCHIATRIC INTERVENTION; NOVATION BEHAVIOR-THERAPY; METASTATIC BREAST-CANCER; CORONARY HEART-DISEASE; MAMMARY-TUMOR GROWTH; SOCIAL SUPPORT; FOLLOW-UP; ADJUVANT CHEMOTHERAPY; ALAMEDA-COUNTY

Zurück | Weiter