Psychological and social aspects of breast cancer

Oncology (Williston Park). 2008 May;22(6):642-6, 650; discussion 650, 653.

Abstract

Breast cancer treatments today are likely to cause less physical deformity from surgery than a half-century ago, but are more complex and extend over a longer period of time. Women today are often well informed about the details of their cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and are increasingly involved in shared decision-making regarding treatment. Although serious depression is not seen in the majority of breast cancer patients and survivors, many will experience treatment-related distress, fear of recurrence, changes in body image and sexuality, as well as physical toxicities that result from adjuvant therapy. This paper discusses the importance of identifying the psychological and social concerns of breast cancer patients in the medical setting, and assisting them in obtaining appropriate psychosocial services.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mastectomy / psychology*
  • Psychology
  • Social Support
  • Survivors