Depression and cancer: An update

A large number of psychosocial factors are associated with cancer. Depression is one of these important associated factors. It is hypothesized that depression compromises the immune system and results in dysregulation of deoxyribonucleic acid repair enzymes, leading to subsequent development of cancers. The association between depression and cancer has always been debatable and controversial. We decided to conduct a new systematic review to investigate, if the conclusion, about depression being a risk factor for cancer development still holds true. We did extensive literature search at databases like PubMed, MedLine and EBSCO. Our review suggests the significantly increased association between depression and cancer, especially breast cancer.