Head and neck cancer and its treatment can have a profound impact on the physical, psychological, emotional and social functioning of patients, and can place significant burden on their family members. The health professionals who treat these patients play a key role in their psychosocial care and recovery. People who have experienced childhood trauma are at greater risk of a diagnosis of cancer, however there is limited research on the impact childhood trauma has on the way cancer patients adjust to, cope with and adhere to treatment, especially for the head and neck cancer patient population. This presentation will explore and assess the available literature on childhood trauma and cancer patient experience. It will focus on four themes: psychological distress associated with adverse childhood experiences; physical impact of adverse childhood experiences; engagement with cancer health professionals and the health system; and existing psychosocial interventions to address adverse childhood experiences.
This talk will explore the multiple biopsychosocial issues faced by cancer patients who have experienced childhood trauma, including higher rates of depressive symptoms, anxiety and panic, dissociation and acute cognitive impairment, suicidal ideation and non-compliant behaviours. Additionally, these patients experience higher rates of pain, fatigue, inflammation, reduced immunity and poorer health related quality of life. Strained relationships with oncology health professionals and less engagement in their cancer treatment was evident for these patients, demonstrating the significant negative impact complex childhood trauma has on the cancer patient experience.
This talk will invite the audience to consider how trauma informed approaches, stemming from established psychosocial interventions, may foster stronger relationships with our patients, reduce their overall distress and ensure better engagement in their treatment. We will aim to create a space for deeper reflection on the values and beliefs that impact the provision of care to people living with complex trauma.