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Psychological Stress And Breast Cancer

Introduction

Cancer is a growing disease raising high concerns about health. Women, in particular, are affected by breast cancer. This number has been shooting up in recent years. This problem is prevalent worldwide including Australia. About 20,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in Australia each year. It is one of the most prevalent cancers in the nation. 

Genetics and lifestyle are some of the physical risk factors for breast cancer. However, psychological variables like stress also play a major role. It has been suggested that psychological stress, which includes emotional strain from traumatic life events, constant tension, and mental health issues has an impact. It influences cancer risk, progression, and patient outcomes. 

The relationship between psychological stress and breast cancer in Australia is examined critically in this study. We will also look at any possible relationships between stress and patient outcomes. A firm understanding will help us to know the role of healthcare and support systems. 

Breast Cancer Prevalence

 Breast cancer makes up a large percentage of cancer cases. It mostly affects women, however it can also strike men. According to a survey, by the time women are 85 years old, one in eight may receive a breast cancer diagnosis.

Survival rates have increased with 91% of women surviving for five years or more following diagnosis. This is due to advancements in screening and therapy. This high rate, however, emphasises how crucial it is to understand all the factors including psychosocial ones.

Learning About Psychological Stress

The mental and emotional strain or tension brought on by difficult or demanding situations is called psychological stress. It can be chronic or acute. It can result from long-term issues like financial difficulties. Or even from the stress of losing your job or relationship problems. It is concerning for health. Long-term stress can lead to changes in physiology which can be harmful. 

Psychological stress has been identified as a possible risk factor. If it does not cause it, it can definitely amplify it.  Research is still being done to determine how the immune system, hormone balance, and behaviour are all impacted by chronic stress. It may have an impact on the development and spread of the disease.

The Physiological Processes Connecting Stress and Breast Cancer 

The impact of psychological stress on breast cancer risk and prognosis is related to a number of mechanisms. They are mentioned below: 

1.    The Immune System and Stress

It is well-recognized that long-term psychological stress impairs immunity. It lessens the body's capacity to identify and remove malignant cells. Normally, the immune system is able to recognise abnormal cells and stop them from multiplying. Prolonged stress, however, might reduce this cell function, which is important. It plays a crucial role in controlling tumour development. 

Furthermore, there is a link between long stress and inflammation points in the body. Inflammation can promote cancer. It creates an environment that allows cancer cells to grow and spread. 

2.    Stress Hormones and the Spread of Cancer

Cortisol and adrenaline are the hormones that increase psychological stress. Long-term high doses of these hormones may impact the processes involved in cell division and repair. It may promote the development of malignant cells. For example, high cortisol can throw other hormones out of balance, including oestrogen. 

Elevated cortisol levels can cause metabolic changes and insulin resistance. It disables the cell's ability to divide causing overall damage. 

3.    Changes in Behavior Because of Stress

The stress also leads to changes in behaviour.  For example, people who experience ongoing stress may turn to unhealthy coping strategies like smoking, binge drinking, eating poorly, and not exercising. All of these are risk factors for breast cancer. It also hinders the diagnosis process. It might underlie the many symptoms of the disease. 

Studies on Breast Cancer and Stress

Research and discussion on the connection between stress and breast cancer have been going on. Human studies have produced mixed results. On the other hand, Animal research clearly links chronic stress to tumour growth. Everyday events like divorce or a death in the family also have a direct impact. There are other studies that contradict this theory while many others support it. 

Research and Results

The research has been kept at par with the international standards. Numerous research conducted nationally have examined the psychological effects of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. In this research, many patients reported elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and sadness. Nonetheless, there is now insufficient proof to draw a firm connection between stress and the onset of breast cancer.

One of Australia's top centres for cancer research, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne, has carried out a study in this respect. Their findings suggest that although psychological stress might have an adverse effect on patient outcomes, it is unclear if it is a direct cause. However, it is sure that it affects mental health and quality of life. 

Impact on Patients with Breast Cancer

It is evident that psychological stress has a substantial impact on breast cancer. This is mostly seen once they are diagnosed. The exact function of stress in producing breast cancer is still up for debate. A patient's mental health may be seriously impacted after diagnosis which can boost cortisol. It can also happen as a result of treatment's side effects and stress.

Life Quality and Mental Health

Patients with breast cancer frequently struggle with significant levels of anxiety, worry, and despair. Especially when it comes to long-term survival and recurrence, the patient's general quality of life may be impacted by this distress.

It may make it harder for them to maintain social connections and participate in everyday activities. Poor mental health can also have an adverse effect on physical recovery. It can hamper postponing healing or produce less favourable results from treatment.

Managing Therapy

Patients' ability to cope with treatment is also affected. Research indicates that individuals with elevated stress levels are more prone to severe adverse effects from treatment. They have reduced tolerance to radiation and chemotherapy. The long-term prognosis may be impacted by stress. It can hinder the immune system's capacity to heal from the physical damage caused by heavy treatments.

Addressing Psychological Stress in the Treatment of Breast Cancer

Psychological stress has a negative effect on patients with breast cancer. This can be made better by including mental health therapy. This will help to provide all-inclusive cancer care. In order to improve patient outcomes, healthcare practitioners are realising that psychological support services must be integrated with medical therapies.

Interventions and Support

Counselling, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and support groups are examples of psychological interventions. They have been shown to be beneficial in helping patients. It helps to manage their stress and enhance their mental health.

Cancer patients and their families can receive free counselling and resources. For this, there are organisations like the Australian Cancer Council's support services. They can help them deal with the psychological effects of receiving a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Programs for mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have also grown in popularity. They act as a means of assisting patients in lowering their levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. These programs help patients better manage the physical and psychological demands of cancer treatment. They teach them mindfulness practices that encourage relaxation and emotional regulation.

Social Media Support Systems

Another important element in helping individuals with breast cancer manage their stress is the social support they receive from friends, family, and medical professionals. Strong social networks patient outcomes and lessen psychological discomfort. This study highlights the significance of both practical and emotional support for those receiving cancer treatment.

In Summary:

In Australia, where thousands of women are impacted by breast cancer annually, it is important to focus on all factors.  Treating the psychological aspects of cancer care is essential to raising patient satisfaction and overall survival rates.

Australia's health care system can better accompany breast cancer patients through their journey. They can offer comprehensive psychological therapies and assistance in managing stress. This would improve the patient's physical and emotional outcomes, making them continue living with joy.

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