Malignant mesothelioma is a terminal disease, and its diagnosis strikes each patient differently. While some are intent on getting the most out of the life remaining to them, and pursue aggressive treatment, others are stricken with grief and tempted to give up. Two newly released studies shine a light on this latter group, warning that terminal cancers damage emotional health and create enormous psychological stress, and a much higher risk for depression and suicide.
Suicide Rates Highest Among Patients with Mesothelioma and Other Terminal Cancers
The first report reviewed 28 studies that included more than 22 million cancer patients across the world, including mesothelioma patients. In reviewing the findings, Dr. Corinna Seliger-Behme of Heidelberg University in Germany determined that cancer patients experienced a suicide rate 85 percent higher than that of the general population.
The United States was the nation with the highest suicide rate of all, and patients with the worst prognoses — like mesothelioma — were at substantially greater risk than those with more curable disease. The researchers suggested that the greater propensity for suicide among Americans might be linked to higher costs for healthcare and greater accessibility to guns.
Depression Prevalent Among Mesothelioma Patients and Those with Other Cancers
The second study was led by Alvina Lai of the University College London and focused on the high risk of depression and anxiety among patients with cancer prognoses like mesothelioma. It similarly found that patients with the worst prognoses had the highest risk for self-harm, with psychiatric issues increasing as time went by. Patients undergoing surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy were at the greatest risk for developing a mental health condition.
In reviewing their results, both groups of investigators suggested that more counseling and support should be given to patients diagnosed with aggressive cancers like mesothelioma. Though physicians are currently told to screen for depression as part of cancer treatment, Dr. Nathalie Moise, professor of medicine at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons said, “I think these findings may support the need to also screen for suicide and other risk factors. Normalizing mental health treatment as an integral component of your overall cancer care may also go a long way.”
The stress of a mesothelioma diagnosis can be extreme, but the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. To learn more about the support we can provide, contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
