The founder and lead surgeon of Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology talks about mental health.

Lewisville, TX — People who are diagnosed with cancer may find themselves at higher risk for mental disorders. A recently released study shed light on the potential increase in risk both before and after a cancer diagnosis is made.

The study that produced the eye-opening findings involved an analysis of patient data collected between 2001 and 2010. Researchers compared information related to more than 300,000 cancer patients and another estimated 3 million people who were cancer-free. The comparative study revealed that 3,400 patients diagnosed with cancer had presented with a mental disorder within the year prior to finding out they had cancer. Another 10,000 people who were diagnosed with cancer were also diagnosed with a mental disorder shortly thereafter. The rate of mental disorder diagnosis was higher for patients ultimately diagnosed with cancer, researchers found.

“The study puts a spotlight on the need for patients and healthcare providers to be very mindful of the toll cancer can take on people both physically and psychologically,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology. “The study also noted an uptick in risk for mental disorders about 10 months prior patients receiving a cancer diagnosis. This finding may also prove beneficial in helping during the diagnostic process.”

Researchers found that women were more likely to display symptoms of mental disorders both before and after receiving a cancer diagnosis. The most common disorders found included substance abuse, anxiety, stress reaction disorder and depression.

“The study shows how terribly important it is for patients who have an open, honest relationship with their healthcare providers,” says Dr. Echt. “Reporting any and all side effects and symptomatic concerns during treatment for cancer is strongly advised. If a mental disorder is present, help is available.”

It is estimated more than 1.7 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. That figure does not include the millions who will learn they have skin cancer.

About Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group
The Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group has state-of-the-art facilities that offer individualized care to patients throughout North Texas. With a team of expert oncologists and other specialists on staff, the Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group treats a variety of cancers and blood disorders with an eye towards the newest advancements available in diagnostic technology and treatments.