Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among American men with over 334,500 new cases diagnosed during 1997 alone. Untreated anxiety and depression are common in men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Older men particularly are vulnerable because of age-related stressors and the uncertainties associated with the detection and treatment of prostate carcinoma,.

The researchers note that 80% of all prostate cancers occur in men over the age of 65, many of whom are also experiencing other significant losses such as the loss of a spouse, retirement, and the death of peers and other family members, often to cancer of the prostate or other sites.

However, the full psychological impact of these stressors on a patient's mental health may not be readily apparent to his physician, family, or friends. Experts have long known that older men are often reluctant to voluntarily admit to feelings of depression or anxiety.

Cancer May 15, 1998;82:1904-1908

Dr. Mercola's Comment:

Continuing evidence of the mind body connection. Most of you know that I am a firm believer in what a good diet can do to restore health. I am convinced that healthy emotions are even more important. I suspect that more people develop cancer and heart disease due to being unable to transform the emotional traumas as compared to eating improperly or smoking.