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A Quantitative Sensory Testing Paradigm to Obtain Measures of Pain Processing in Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Surgery
Published on: January 18, 2018
Psychological Aspects of Breast Cancer
Jennifer Kim Penberthy1, Anne Louise Stewart1, Caroline F Centeno1
1Department of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences, UVA Cancer Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine & Health System, PO Box 800623, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
Abstract:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Associated psychological symptoms include stress, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, impaired cognitive function, sleep disturbances, altered body image, sexual dysfunction, and diminished overall well-being. Distress screening and assessment identifies women who will benefit from therapeutic interventions. Addressing these symptoms improves compliance with treatment and outcomes including disease-related outcomes, psychological symptoms, and quality of life. The most effective treatments include teaching coping skills such as expressing emotion, along with other structured cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and mindfulness approaches. Patients should be provided these psychosocial supports throughout their cancer journey.
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