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[Can psychological treatment help patients with cancer?]
K Fredheim1, J H Rosenvinge, A Holte
1Institutt for psykologi Universitetet i Tromsø 9037 Tromsø.
Background:
A number of studies have shown that psychological interventions may supplement the medical treatment of cancer patients by reducing psychological morbidity and increasing their quality of life. However, previous literature reviews point to methodological flaws limiting the specific and definite conclusions that can be drawn with respect to intervention effects.
Material And Methods:
Through searches in Medline, Embase and PsycINFO, the present study aims to review recent controlled studies from 1992-2000.
Results:
Of the ten studies identified, seven reported effects of cognitive, psycho-educational and supportive treatment of various forms of cancer.
Interpretation:
As found in the previous literature reviews, methodological shortcomings limit what firm conclusions may be drawn in order to guide clinicians as to what kind of interventions will be cost-effective for specific cancer patient groups. Nevertheless, the present as well as the previous reviews indicate that psychological treatment of cancer patients should be continued and that more well-controlled studies should be conducted.
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