Cancer- and Cancer Treatment-associated Cognitive Change: an Update on the State of the Science

Overview

Journal J Clin Oncol

Specialty Oncology

Date 2012 Sep 26

PMID 23008308

Citations 315

Authors

Tim A Ahles

James C Root

Elizabeth L Ryan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Cognitive changes associated with cancer and cancer treatments have become an increasing concern. Using breast cancer as the prototype, we reviewed the research from neuropsychological, imaging, genetic, and animal studies that have examined pre- and post-treatment cognitive change. An impressive body of research supports the contention that a subgroup of patients is vulnerable to post-treatment cognitive problems. We also propose that models of aging may be a useful conceptual framework for guiding research in this area and suggest that a useful perspective may be viewing cognitive change in patients with cancer within the context of factors that influence the trajectory of normal aging.

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