About one-third of cancer survivors exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder years into remission, according to a new study shining a light on the psychological toll of the disease.
Colleagues at the National University of Malaysia followed 469 cancer patients within one month of their diagnosis and for the next four years. Of the patients who exhibited “significant psychological distress,” the researchers found six months after diagnosis there was a 21.7 percent incidence of PTSD.
Within four years, rates dropped to 6.1 percent, although the researchers stress the need for more awareness around this issue to connect people with services.
“Many cancer patients believe they need to adopt a ’warrior mentality,’ and remain positive and optimistic from diagnosis through treatment to stand a better chance of beating their cancer,” Dr. Caryn Mei Hsien Chan, the lead author of the study, said in a statement. “To these patients, seeking help for the emotional issues they face is akin to admitting weakness.”
The study, one of the few studies worldwide that explored PTSD in this group, was published Monday in the scholarly medical journal Cancer.
Rates of PTSD were lower in the patients who had breast cancer, most likely because the center where they were treated connects patients with support and counseling within the first year of diagnosis.
“There needs to be greater awareness that there is nothing wrong with getting help to manage the emotional upheaval — particularly depression, anxiety and PTSD — post-cancer,” the authors wrote.
While PTSD is most closely associated with traumatic events that take place within a short time period — such as an attack, an accident or natural disaster — acknowledging the disorder in cancer patients is essential in treating their mental well-being and ensuring continued cancer screening and care, the study said.
Many patients live in a state of stress fearing their cancer will return or that every lump, bump, pain or ache is the disease returning, Dr. Chan said. Patients are also more likely to skip medical appointments or ignore symptoms because of the trauma of their past cancer experience.
“We need psychological evaluation and support services for patients with cancer at an initial stage and at continued follow-ups because psychological well-being and mental health — and by extension, quality of life — are just as important as physical health,” Dr. Chan said.
• Laura Kelly can be reached at lkelly@washingtontimes.com.
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