How traumatic is breast cancer?
Author Information
Author(s): O'Connor M, Christensen S, Jensen A B, Møller S, Zachariae R
Primary Institution: Psychooncology Research Unit, Institute of Psychology, Aarhus University
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among women treated for primary breast cancer?
Conclusion
Many women experience persistent cancer-related PTSS after a breast cancer diagnosis, with significant risk factors including low social status and poor health.
Supporting Evidence
- 20.1% of women had severe PTSS at 3 months post-surgery.
- 14.3% of women had severe PTSS at 15 months post-surgery.
- 48% of women with severe PTSS at 3 months also had severe PTSS at 15 months.
- Low social status and previous mental illness were significant predictors of severe PTSS.
Takeaway
Getting breast cancer can be really scary, and many women feel very sad or stressed about it even after treatment.
Methodology
A nationwide cohort study of 4917 Danish women who underwent surgery for primary breast cancer, with questionnaires assessing PTSS at 3 and 15 months post-surgery.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from the higher SES and health status of participants may lead to underestimating the prevalence of severe PTSS.
Limitations
The study may underestimate PTSS prevalence due to the younger, healthier, and higher SES profile of participants compared to non-participants.
Participant Demographics
Danish women aged 18-70 with histologically confirmed breast cancer.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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