STRESS-BUSTING psychological help can increase a woman’s chances of surviving a recurrence of breast cancer, say researchers.
A psychological intervention programme devised by Ohio State University researchers reduced the risk of women dying after the disease returned by 59%.
Women enrolled into the programme were taught relaxation and problem-solving techniques, and given guidance on how to find support from family and friends.
They were also offered advice on exercise and diet, and ways of coping with treatment side-effects.
Previous research by the same group found that psychological intervention after a breast cancer diagnosis reduced the risk of death by 56% over an average of 11 years.
It also led to a 45% reduced risk of breast cancer recurring after initial treatment.
