Survey Highlights Psychological Impact of Cancer on Patients and Caregivers

A recent survey conducted by the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James) reveals the profound psychological effects that a cancer diagnosis has not only on patients but also on their caregivers. The survey, which sampled 1,008 U.S. adults aged 18 and older from May 2 to May 5, 2025, indicates that cancer anxiety extends far beyond the individual diagnosed, significantly affecting their loved ones.

Dr. Kevin Johns, MD, director of the psychosocial oncology program at OSUCCC—James, emphasizes the critical mental health challenges faced by cancer patients. According to him, studies suggest that cancer patients are five times more likely to experience depression than the general population, and approximately 42% of breast cancer survivors report experiencing anxiety. Dr. Johns states, “Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a patient's ability to finish care and fully recover after treatment—all of which affects long-term survival.” He notes that timely access to mental health care is pivotal, as many patients wait up to a year to see a psychiatrist due to insurance and geographic barriers.

The survey findings reveal that 76% of participants expressed concerns about life expectancy when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, while 69% were worried about the course of treatment, and 65% about pain management. Additional concerns included side effects (55%), family stress (54%), and grief (49%). This data underscores the multifaceted emotional burden that caregivers face, highlighting the need for comprehensive mental health support for both patients and their families.

Notably, the survey also differentiates concerns across age groups. Young adults aged 18 to 29 reported grief (66%) as a significant concern more than older adults, while older respondents (65 and above) were more likely to cite worries about treatment courses (74%) and caregiver stress (37%). This generational divide illustrates the varying emotional responses to a cancer diagnosis and the importance of tailoring support services accordingly.

Dr. Johns points out that mental health complications often arise at different stages of the cancer journey—diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship follow-up. Symptoms such as cognitive changes, severe fatigue, and even PTSD-like symptoms can manifest, creating additional challenges for both patients and caregivers. He stresses the importance of preparing patients and caregivers for these potential side effects, stating, “If patients or their caregivers are not warned beforehand that these symptoms can occur, it can cause a lot of unnecessary anxiety and shame.”

In response to these findings, the OSUCCC—James Psychosocial Oncology Program has expanded its team of mental health professionals to better support patients. The program has also piloted an innovative oncology consulting service aimed at assisting breast medical oncologists in managing anxiety and depression among their patients. Positive feedback from both patients and oncologists has prompted plans to extend this service to patients with head and neck cancer.

Dr. Johns explains, “Patients undergoing cancer treatment already have so many appointments, and they often develop a close relationship with their medical oncologist, who becomes the default mental health provider if they don’t have immediate access to a specialized provider. This new model is designed to extend mental health support services to as many patients as possible.”

The survey, administered via web and telephone, was conducted using the SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus platform, with a margin of error of +/-3.6 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. The findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced mental health resources and support systems for cancer patients and their caregivers. As cancer diagnoses continue to rise, addressing the psychological impact of cancer on both patients and their families will be essential in improving overall quality of life and treatment outcomes.