Learn More: Depression
Depression and Cancer
Depression is common in cancer patients: Of the 1.2 million people diagnosed with cancer every year in the U.S., 25% experience depression. The more serious the cancer diagnosis, the more likely the individual will be to experience concurrent clinical depression.
Several factors increase the likelihood of depression co-occurring with cancer:
- advanced phases of the disease
- uncontrolled pain
- disability or disfigurement
- medications (chemotherapy agents)
- social isolation
- socioeconomic pressures
Although often co-occurring with stroke, clinical depression is never an expected result of cancer. When present, clinical depression should always be treated.
Visit the RealAge Living with Cancer Center for personalized recommendations to cope with your condition.
