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Optimism has little influence on cancer survivalDate: 22/10/2007 09:24:06
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US researchers have found that emotional wellbeing does not greatly affect the prognosis of patients with head and neck cancer.
Doctors commonly tell their patients that an optimistic outlook can improve their chances of survival.
However, a study of 1,093 patients by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has now revealed that emotional status is not an independent predictor of survival in cancer patients.
Dr James Coyne, lead author and professor of psychology in psychiatry at the university, said: "The belief that a patient's psychological state can impact the course and outcome of their cancer is one that has been prominent among patients and medical professionals, alike.
"While this study may not end the debate, it does provide the strongest evidence to date that psychological factors are not independently prognostic in cancer management."
Commenting on the study, which is published in Cancer journal, Cancer Research UK's Julia Frater said that patients are often urged to feel positive and can feel under pressure to cope well.
She told the BBC: "These results should reassure them that if they don't feel like this, it's okay. Many people do feel worried or low following a diagnosis and this isn't likely to affect the outcome of their treatment."
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