Ethnic differentials in mental health needs and service utilization among persons with cancer

Abstract

Despite methodological limitations, findings confirm past research showing that disadvantaged ethnic minorities may receive differential recommendations for mental health problems among persons with cancer. This may contribute to the differential treatment gap in mental health care among persons with cancer of contrasting ethnic groups.

Oncologists', nurses', and social workers' strategies and barriers to identifying suicide risk in cancer patients

“…The suicide rate for persons with cancer is estimated to be twice the rate in the general US population . Similar higher risk was documented in other countries such as Sweden and Israel . Suicidality can include suicidal ideation (ie, thoughts of ending one's own life), suicidal attempts (ie, trying to take one's own life), and suicidal acts (ie, taking one's own life).…”

Comorbidity of common mental disorders with cancer and their treatment gap: findings from the World Mental Health Surveys

“…Actions to bridge the gap through improved availability and accessibility of the services and the reduction of the subjective barriers such as stigma would facilitate access to the benefits derived from evidence‐based mental health treatments in both primary care and/or in specialized services . Also, for a more complete remedy of the situation, specific training should be made available for the medical staff in identifying and treating the comorbid mental disorders and, wherever possible, to include specialized mental health providers as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team caring for person with cancer.…”

“…Psycho‐oncological research has shown similar treatment gaps for mental disorders among persons with cancer . For example, a US community‐based study found that only 35% of cancer survivors who reported mental problems accessed specialized services .…”