Does stress worsen my father's lung cancer outcomes?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father is 50 and was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. Since hearing the diagnosis, his sleep has been poor, his appetite has been low, and he keeps worrying about scan results and the future. Even on days he feels physically fine, mental stress seems to drain him.

Does stress from the diagnosis worsen lung cancer outcomes at 50?
Can constant anxiety affect immunity or treatment response?
Should mental health support or anxiety medications be started early, along with cancer treatment?

We are focusing on medical care, but are worried this ongoing stress may silently worsen his condition.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

First of all, I completely understand the fear, anxiety, and overwhelming thoughts he is experiencing right now regarding treatment, therapies, and the nature of the disease. Of course, this is not easy, and it is completely normal for him to feel afraid and overwhelmed.

Fear and anxiety can definitely affect his appetite and his overall general condition. We need to help him understand that these fears should not control him and that lung cancer treatment is available at all stages, and that lung cancer is very sensitive to treatment, which is actually something positive and reassuring for both him and your family.

It is very important that you focus on providing emotional support during this period and try to reassure him as much as possible. It is also important to help him understand that nutrition and supportive care are extremely important during treatment so that he can tolerate the treatment journey.

He should eat fruits and vegetables well, drink plenty of water, and he can eat small, frequent meals if that is easier for him.

There is absolutely no problem with seeking help from a psychiatrist to support him emotionally and help him get through this difficult phase, especially because having psychiatric support during treatment can help him cope better with the treatment journey.

He may also benefit from joining online group therapy sessions where he can meet people with similar conditions who are receiving treatment and recovering.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.