Applications of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Cancer Survivorship

There are over 17 million cancer survivors in the United States. The nature of cancer and the taxing treatments often required to control or eradicate the disease can leave longstanding psychological and physiological effects, even beyond the completion of treatment. Many factors contribute to successful recovery in cancer survivorship. Attention to adequate management of side and late effects, awareness and integration of cultural considerations, and effective navigation of systemic health-care issues and disparities in care are essential for an effective transition from active treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a particularly useful intervention in cancer survivorship, as its components can be implemented to address the biopsychosocial nature of concerns associated with a cancer diagnosis. In addition, CBT can be tailored to the individual, making this an ideal intervention for understanding a patient's unique difficulties within a cultural and societal context. This article presents an overview of the diversity of concerns facing those in cancer survivorship, provides a framework for conceptualizing the presenting concerns in patients with a history of cancer utilizing the biopsychosocial model. and highlights the use of CBT as an intervention to address these concerns via case studies.

Automated summary

There are over 17 million cancer survivors in the United States, who often face longstanding psychological and physiological effects. Successful recovery requires adequate management of side effects, integration of cultural considerations, and effective navigation of systemic healthcare issues. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a particularly useful intervention in cancer survivorship, tailored to address individual concerns within a cultural and societal context.