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Does anger or sadness cause cancer?

Page last modified on: August 18, 2008

Question from kt9192: I've heard that the anger and/or the sadness come before the cancer--that the cancer is actually a reaction to inner anger. What do you think?: Answers —David Spiegel, Ph.D.: In a word--nonsense. There is absolutely no evidence that anger causes cancer. And there is no evidence that emotions turned inward give you cancer. I think it is cruel for people to be blamed or blame themselves for giving themselves cancer when that is not what happens. We get cancer because we are biological beings and are vulnerable to that and a lot of other illnesses.; Marisa Weiss, M.D., Breastcancer.org president and founder: The cancer itself causes so much suffering that our natural inclination to blame ourselves can add to that suffering. Try to avoid that big pitfall.

On Wednesday, October 18, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Feelings about Breast Cancer. David Spiegel, Ph.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about the emotional effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

David Spiegel, Ph.D. is professor and associate chairman of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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