Cancer Survivors Face Lingering Psychological Challenges Despite Increasing Survival Rates
More Americans survive cancer. But the psychological impacts can persist for years
Image: Npr
As cancer survival rates rise, many survivors, like Morgan Newman from Des Moines, Iowa, struggle with long-term psychological impacts. Anxiety and depression often persist after treatment, highlighting the need for better mental health support tailored to cancer survivors.
- 01Over 18 million Americans were cancer survivors in 2025, projected to rise to 22 million by 2035, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- 02A national survey revealed that about one-third of cancer survivors experience anxiety about recurrence, yet only 20% have sought mental health support.
- 03Iowa has the second-highest rate of new cancer diagnoses, with many rural areas lacking mental health professionals.
- 04Therapists like Julie Larson specialize in treating cancer survivors, addressing the unique emotional challenges they face post-treatment.
- 05The Richard Deming Cancer Center in Des Moines is enhancing mental health services for cancer patients, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The rise in cancer survival rates in the United States, with over 18 million survivors in 2025 expected to grow to 22 million by 2035, is overshadowed by the psychological challenges many face post-treatment. Survivors like Morgan Newman, diagnosed with cervical cancer at 24, report enduring anxiety and depression long after their physical treatment ends. A national survey indicates that about one-third of survivors worry about cancer recurrence, yet only 20% have sought mental health support. This gap is particularly pronounced in Iowa, where the cancer diagnosis rate is the second highest in the nation and mental health resources are scarce, especially in rural areas. Therapists specializing in cancer care, like Julie Larson, note that many patients seek help months or years after treatment, struggling with feelings of loss and changes in their lives. The Richard Deming Cancer Center in Des Moines is addressing these needs by offering counseling and mindfulness services, highlighting the necessity for a holistic approach to cancer care that includes mental health support.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The increasing number of cancer survivors in Iowa highlights a critical need for accessible mental health services to support their emotional well-being.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think is the most important support for cancer survivors?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.