Stress and Immunity Breast Cancer Project.

Abstract

Psychological Research documents that the psychosocial burdens following breast cancer are notable in number, severity, and scope. A biobehavioral model of cancer stress and disease course has been proposed (see Andersen, Kiecolt-Glaser, & Glaser, 1994) and provides a conceptual basis for the proposed research. We are testing the model with a clinical trial: 235 women with stage II or III breast cancer who have been diagnosed and recently surgically treated are randomized between two conditions: (1) assessment and intervention, or (2) assessment only (control). In addition to documenting the quality of life benefits of a psychological intervention, this study provides an experimental test of the psychological and behavioral variables which may influence health outcomes directly. Further, we test specific mechanisms--alteration in immune and endocrine functions--to achieve beneficial health effects for women with breast cancer.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1998
Accession Number
ADA357336

Entities

People

  • Barbara L Andersen

Organizations

  • Ohio State University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Breast Cancer
  • Cells
  • Chemistry
  • Health Services
  • Human Behavior
  • Lymphocytes
  • Medical Personnel
  • Oncology
  • Therapy

Fields of Study

  • Psychology

Readers

  • Psychological Intervention/Treatment for Stress, Anxiety, PTSD, and Related Emotional and Cognitive Health Symptoms.
  • Women's Health and Cancer Risk Research: African American Women and Pregnancy Outcomes.