Cancer as trauma: multidimensional determinants of PTSD across the disease course. A narrative integrative review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant psychological response of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This review synthesizes evidence on the psychological, socioemotional, and biomedical determinants of cancer-related PTSD, emphasizing how these factors interact across the disease trajectory.

Methods

We conducted a narrative integrative review of PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Eligible studies included articles published between 2015 and March 2025 reporting adults with cancer assessed for PTSD using validated instruments across different study designs. Based on findings on prevalence, predictors, and assessment tools a biopsychosocial model was structured.

Results

Twenty-three studies met inclusion criteria, mainly from the United

SUBMITTER: Palomares-Palomares CB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12816368 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature