Ask the Expert: Question about stress and cancer recurrence

Question: Does excessive amounts of stress increase the change of my cancer returning? And is there a time frame after cancer occurrence that I no longer need be concerned about return of cancer? 3 yrs? 5 yrs?

Response: This is a very interesting question! I think most physicians would agree that excessive amounts of stress is counterproductive to overall health in every aspect! For most head and neck cancers, 5 years is the time period in which we follow patients to watch for cancer recurrence. The highest risk of recurrence is in the first year. As time goes on, the likelihood of the head and neck cancer returning goes down.

Dr. Kang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) , specializing in the comprehensive management of benign and malignant head and neck tumors. Click the following links to learn more about Dr. Kang and the OSUCCC– James:https://cancer.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/search-physician-directory/stephen-y-kang andhttps://cancer.osu.edu/.

The Ask the Expert Guest Moderator is not intended to be a substitute for healthcare professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding your health.