The Interplay of Chronic Stress and Cancer: Pathophysiology and
Implications for Integrated Care
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated depression is a multifaceted
condition that arises from the interplay of biological, psychological,
and social factors in individuals diagnosed with cancer. Understanding
the background of this condition involves exploring how cancer and its
treatments can precipitate depressive symptoms and the mechanisms behind
this association. Objective To describe and synthesize
information on the complicated interactions between chronic stress,
inflammation, immunological responses, and cancer development. To review
the existing evidence regarding mechanisms that may include
neurotransmitter imbalances, structural brain changes, and genetic
predispositions as key contributors to depression in cancer.
Methods Literature searches on Cancer-associated Depression
were conducted in electronic databases like APA PsycINFO, Medline,
Google Scholar, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to understand
the potential relationship between stress-induced depression and cancer.
Research on the neurochemical, anatomical, immunological, genetic, and
psychological changes that support cancer-related depression was
collected, together with study features and findings, and the impact of
depression on cancer was extracted. Results The literature
search revealed a compilation of quantitative and qualitative studies
about depression in cancer patients. Findings suggested the possibility
of a link between cancer-induced stress and depression. Increased levels
of proinflammatory cytokines (like IL-6) and dysregulation of the
neurotransmitters including serotonin had shown links to the onset of
depression in cancer patients. Lastly, antidepressants along with
psychological interventions were found to be effective in treating
depression in cancer patients. Conclusions This Narrative
review contributes insights into the need for integrating oncology and
mental health services to address the psychosocial needs of cancer
patients. Future research should focus on the bidirectional interactions
between stress and cancer, aiming to improve cancer care by
incorporating mental health support, ultimately enhancing patient
outcomes and quality of life.