Cancer is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, profoundly affecting patients' lives at every level, and its psychological and psychiatric impacts remain a major concern. Psychiatric disorders are frequently observed in cancer patients. Nevertheless, they were also underdiagnosed, with a consequent undermining possible interventions. Still, psychiatric disorders in cancer patients are not merely secondary complications but may actively contribute to poor oncological outcomes. The pathophysiology of cancer-related psychiatric disorders is multifactorial and is related to several neuropsychological and neurobiological factors. Specifically, the production of cytokines associated with cancer appears to play a role in the development of depression. Tumours trigger an inflammatory response that leads to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These cytokines influence central nervous system function and disrupt the regulation of the HPA axis, contributing to psychological symptoms such as depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and appetite loss. Moreover, psychiatric symptoms in cancer patients are often accompanied by neuropsychological alterations including deficits in memory, executive function, and attention. Compared to other individuals with psychiatric disorders, cancer patients may experience more severe cognitive impairments which can be exacerbated by cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. These treatments stimulate cytokine production by nearby non-cancerous cells and immune cells activated in response to treatment-induced cell death, thereby driving systemic inflammation. Cancer profoundly affects not only patients but also their families, who often bear the emotional and caregiving burden. Being close to a loved one with cancer can lead to significant psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, among family members and caregivers. The ripple effects of this burden underscore the need for a holistic approach to mental health in oncology. Given the background presented so far, identifying and managing psychiatric comorbidities in oncological patients and their families is crucial. This multifaceted interplay between cancer and psychiatric disorders necessitates a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to understanding, diagnosing, and treating these conditions effectively.
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Psychiatric differences
Timeframe: January 2026 - January 2035