BMJ  2005;330 (26 March), doi:10.1136/bmj.330.7493.0-c

First year after diagnosis of early breast cancer is most dangerous for depression

In the first year after the diagnosis women with early breast cancer are at particular risk of developing depression or anxiety and therefore need dedicated psychological interventions that focus on improving social support. In a cohort study following up 222 women after diagnosis for five years or until recurrence, Burgess and colleagues (p 702) found prevalence of clinically important depression or anxiety to be nearly 50% in the year after diagnosis; 25% in the second, third, and fourth years; and 15% in the fifth year. Risk factors associated with longer term depression or anxiety were previous psychological treatment, lack of an intimate confiding relationship, younger age, and severely stressful non-cancer life experiences.

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Depression and anxiety in women with early breast cancer: five year observational cohort study

Caroline Burgess, Victoria Cornelius, Sharon Love, Jill Graham, Michael Richards, and Amanda Ramirez
BMJ 2005 330: 702. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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