As an oncologist with extensive experience in cancer care, I can provide insight into the relationship between cancer and mental health. It is important to recognize that cancer is not only a physical illness but also a psychological one. The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can lead to significant emotional distress, which can manifest as mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Chemotherapy, a common treatment for cancer, has been associated with a side effect known as chemo brain. This term describes a collection of cognitive symptoms that include fatigue, depression, mental fog, and other forms of cognitive impairment. While the exact mechanisms behind chemo brain are not fully understood, it is clear that it can have a significant impact on a patient's mental well-being. Moreover, the process of living with cancer, including the fear of recurrence, can lead to chronic stress, which in turn can exacerbate or trigger mental health issues. It is crucial for healthcare providers to address both the physical and psychological needs of cancer patients to provide comprehensive care. read more >>

There is evidence3 to support the existence of PTSD within both cancer survivors and cancer patients. ... Cancer treatments can also cause depression and anxiety. A side effect of chemotherapy known as chemo brain can cause fatigue, depression, mental fog, and other forms of cognitive impairment.read more >>