Psycho-oncology
-
The treatment of breast cancer tends to result in physical side effects (e.g., vaginal dryness, stomatitis, and atrophy) that can cause sexual problems. Although studies of early-stage breast cancer have demonstrated that sexual problems are associated with increased depressive symptoms for both patients and their partners, comparatively little is known about these associations in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and how patients and partners cope together with sexual problems. We examined the links between sexual problems, depressive symptoms, and two types of spousal communication patterns (mutual constructive and demand-withdraw) in 191 couples in which the patient was initiating treatment for MBC. ⋯ Sexual problems were associated with depressive symptoms for both MBC patients and their partners. The way in which patients and partners talk with one another about cancer-related problems seems to influence this association for patients. MBC patients may benefit from programs that teach couples how to minimize demand-withdraw communication and instead openly and constructively discuss sexual issues and concerns.
-
This study examined whether cognitive impairment in advanced cancer patients is associated with a heightened frequency of psychiatric disorders in their primary caregivers. ⋯ Caregivers of cognitively impaired advanced cancer patients appear at heightened risk of major depression that resolves after the patient's death. Further study with a larger sample and more sensitive longitudinal cognitive measures is indicated.
-
The present study examined the long-term cognitive implications of cancer treatment among breast cancer survivors aged 65 years and older to better understand the long term implications of cancer treatment. ⋯ Our findings suggest that cognitive outcomes may involve greater age-related deficits among older cancer survivors compared with matched healthy subjects.