Talking Helps!
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Updated: October 10, 2007
A 10-year study on the effects of support groups among women with metastatic breast cancer shows the groups can improve moods, lead to better coping and reduce pain, anxiety and even depression. Support groups fell short, though, of being able to improve survival of the disease. Women in group therapy lived about as long as other patients. Earlier studies have indicated support groups can increase survival.. but researchers think new medications and treatments allow for patients to live longer even without beneficial group therapy. Another study seems to confirm that theory. Canadian researchers say the introduction of drugs called Aromatase Inhibitors has helped improve the survival of women with metastatic breast cancer since they were first introduced in the 1990's. These drugs work by cutting the body's production of estrogen. It's important to note... The study authors have received grant support from various drug companies.
