The mental disorder reduces survival odds.
A recent study has found that depression significantly worsens the survival rates of women with breast cancer. The research indicates that women who have both breast cancer and depression face more than three times the risk of dying compared to those who have neither condition.
In contrast, women with breast cancer but without depression have a death rate that is only 45% higher than that of healthy women. Jagdish Khubchandani, the lead researcher and professor of public health sciences at New Mexico State University, explained, “The combination of breast cancer and depression greatly amplifies the risk of death and results in a significant loss of life years.”
Khubchandani also noted that the study highlights how the presence of depression can further diminish survival rates for women with breast cancer. “Unfortunately, many women with breast cancer do not receive timely or adequate mental health care,” he added in a university news release.
The study analyzed data from over 4,700 women aged 45 and older, about 5% of whom had breast cancer and nearly 13% who were dealing with depression. These women were monitored for approximately eight years.
“Currently, over 4 million women in the U.S. are living with breast cancer, and more than a quarter of a million will be diagnosed with it this year,” Khubchandani said. “A significant number of these women also experience depression, which affects their mental health and overall quality of life.”
The study revealed that certain groups, including women with lower incomes or education levels, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with other chronic health issues or unhealthy lifestyles, were more likely to have both breast cancer and depression.
Published recently in the journal Brain Sciences, the study underscores the need for integrated mental health support for women undergoing cancer treatment.
Khubchandani emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to health care for women with cancer. “Most of us will encounter someone with breast cancer in our lives, and it’s likely they will also struggle with poor psychological health or a diminished quality of life. This is partly due to the lack of a comprehensive approach to their overall care.”
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