Wife with breast cancer may affect her husband's health

A new study shows that the stress of caring for a wife with breast cancer can damage her husband's health and this situation can last for years after the wife finishes treatment.

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Ohio State University's study of 32 men found that those with the highest levels of breast cancer-related stresses in their wives are more likely to develop physical symptoms. , such as headache or abdominal pain as well as a weaker immune response.

The average age of men in the study was 58 and they were married an average of 26 years.

'Feelings of guilt, depression and fear of loss, all these factors cause stress. And they not only last a few weeks but a chronic disease that lasts for many years, " said study co-author Kristen Carpenter in a press release on April 23.

In addition, the study author, Associate Professor Sharla Wells-Di Gregorio, who specializes in psychology and psychiatry, said: ' Caregivers are considered invisible patients because very few people ask them. how are you doing These men suffer from severe depression and suffer from physical illnesses, but they often do not seek treatment because of their focus on the wife's condition. "

The results of the study, published in Brain, Behavior and Immunity, suggest that doctors treat cancer patients who can help their patients by paying attention to the health of both caregivers. patient.

This may include checking the patient's stress syndrome and encouraging them to participate in stress, relaxation or other self-care activities.