Breast cancer and "chemobrain": the consequences of cognitive difficulties following chemotherapy and the potential for recovery.
Up to one-third of women breast cancer survivors report difficulties with concentration, multi-tasking, and memory. Research in the University of Missouri, Department of Health Psychology, suggests that these cognitive difficulties are associated with poorer quality of life among breast cancer survivors after treatment. This article discusses this treatment side effect and its consequences for daily functioning, highlights ongoing research on the potential role of stress in the development of cognitive difficulties, and reviews treatment options.
Reid-Arndt
Stephanie A
SA
University of Missouri-Columbia School of Health Professions, Department of Health Psychology, USA. ReidArndtS@health.missouri.edu
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011788:Quality of Life; D020127:Recovery of Function; D017741:Survivors; D026302:Tai Ji; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents