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Post-traumatic stress disorder and cancer
Matthew J Cordova1, Michelle B Riba2, David Spiegel3
1Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
The Lancet. Psychiatry
|January 23, 2017
Summary
Cancer diagnosis causes significant stress, potentially leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in some patients and families. Research highlights diagnostic challenges and the need for cautious, evidence-based treatment approaches for cancer-related PTSD.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
Background:
- Cancer diagnosis and treatment are highly stressful and can be traumatic.
- Cancer-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and diagnoses have been extensively studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on cancer-related PTSD.
- To highlight conceptual, methodological, and diagnostic issues.
- To identify clinical implications and future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative review of existing cancer-related PTSD literature.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria (DSM-IV-TR vs. DSM-5).
- Examination of prevalence, predictors, correlates, and treatment of cancer-related PTSD.
Main Results:
- Cancer-related PTSD affects a minority of patients and family members.
- PTSD is associated with increased distress and reduced quality of life.
- Risk factors include prior trauma, pre-existing psychiatric conditions, and poor social support.
Conclusions:
- The application of PTSD diagnosis in cancer patients requires careful consideration of conceptual and methodological issues.
- Psychosocial assessment should include trauma history and psychiatric background.
- Treatment for cancer-related PTSD should be approached cautiously, utilizing evidence-based trauma interventions.
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