Depression and anxiety are thought to increase a person's risk of developing cancer, but research results have been inconclusive. In an analysis of multiple studies from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Canada, investigators found that depression and anxiety are not linked to higher risks for most types of cancer among this population. The analysis is published online in Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.
  • RennederOPM
    2·
    1 year ago
    •  Depression and anxiety are not associated with an increased risk of most types of cancer in humans. 

•  The analysis was based on data from the International Consortium on Psychosocial Factors and Cancer Incidence. 

•  No association has been found between depression or anxiety and breast, prostate, colorectal, and alcohol-related cancers. 

•  The presence of depression or anxiety is associated with a 6% increased risk of lung cancer and smoking-related cancers. 

•  The risk of lung cancer and smoking-related cancers is reduced after adjusting for other risk factors. 

•  The analysis confirms the importance of combating smoking and other unhealthy behaviors. 

•  The results may provide relief to patients with cancer who believe their diagnosis is related to anxiety or depression. 

•  More research is needed to accurately understand the relationship between depression, anxiety, health behaviors and lung cancer.