Research into the association between depression and cancer has generated conflicting results, but several lines of evidence point to a small positive association.1-4 One of the difficulties of researching this area is the complication caused by there being many different types of cancer.1,4 Research in this field must also be mindful of potentially confounding factors, such as cigarette smoking and alcohol use/abuse, that can contribute to an elevated cancer risk.1
References:
1.Jia Y, Li F, Liu YF, et al. Depression and cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health 2017; 149: 138–148.
2.Pinquart M, Duberstein PR. Depression and cancer mortality: a meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2010; 40 (11): 1797–1810.
3.Satin JR, Linden W, Phillips MJ. Depression as a predictor of disease progression and mortality in cancer patients: a meta-analysis. Cancer 2009; 115 (22): 5349–5361.
4.Riedl D, Schüßler G. Factors associated with and risk factors for depression in cancer patients – a systematic literature review. Transl Oncol 2022; 16: 101328.
