The Impact of Trauma on Cancer Screening: Reflections for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and emphasizing the critical importance of cancer screening as a vital component of preventive healthcare. This month serves as a powerful reminder for individuals to prioritize their health by engaging in regular screening practices that can ultimately save lives. The Canadian Cancer Society provides valuable insights into the numerous benefits associated with consistent cancer screening. These benefits include the ability to detect changes in your body that could potentially lead to cancer if left untreated, as well as the opportunity to identify cancer at an early stage—before symptoms manifest or before it has the chance to spread to other areas of the body. Early detection is crucial, as it significantly enhances the chances of successful treatment and survival rates for those diagnosed with cancer.

Despite the clear advantages of regular screenings, many individuals avoid these important health behaviors. This avoidance can manifest in various forms, such as neglecting breast self-examinations or refraining from seeking examinations by qualified medical professionals. One significant factor contributing to this reluctance is the impact of past sexual trauma, which can create barriers to engaging in necessary health screenings.

The existing research on the connection between trauma and the prevalence of cancer remains limited; however, it sheds light on a critical issue: individuals with a history of sexual trauma often experience profound difficulties when it comes to physical touch or medical examinations that may resemble the invasive experiences they endured. This can be particularly pronounced in sexually sensitive areas of the body, where the memories of trauma can resurface, leading to heightened anxiety and discomfort. These challenges can make it incredibly difficult for survivors to participate in routine health screenings, which are essential for early detection of potential health issues.

This avoidance, while understandable given the emotional and psychological ramifications of trauma, can have serious consequences for one’s long-term health. By not engaging in regular screenings, individuals may miss out on crucial opportunities to detect illnesses early, which could lead to more advanced stages of disease that are harder to treat. This highlights the urgent need for a compassionate approach to healthcare that acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges faced by trauma survivors.

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is essential to reflect on the multifaceted impact of trauma, not only on mental health but also on physical health. If you or someone you know has a history of sexual or physical trauma and struggles with the concept of physical touch during health screenings, it is highly advisable to seek support. Speaking with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional can be an important step. Many therapists are trained in trauma-informed care and can offer specialized, trauma-focused therapy to help individuals navigate their health-related concerns with greater ease and comfort. This support can empower individuals to reclaim their health without the burden of past traumas interfering with their well-being.

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References

• Gesink D, Nattel L. A qualitative cancer screening study with childhood sexual abuse survivors: experiences, perspectives and compassionate care. BMJ Open. 2015 Aug 5;5(8):e007628. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-007628. PMID: 26246075; PMCID: PMC4538265.

• Farley M, Golding JM, Minkoff JR. Is a history of trauma associated with a reduced likelihood of cervical cancer screening? J Fam Pract. 2002 Oct;51(10):827-31. PMID: 12401150.

• Marshall DC, Carney LM, Hsieh K, Dickstein DR, Downes M, Chaudhari A, McVorran S, Montgomery GH, Schnur JB. Effects of trauma history on cancer-related screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Lancet Oncol. 2023 Nov;24(11):e426-e437. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(23)00438-2. PMID: 37922933; PMCID: PMC10754479.

• Watson-Johnson LC, Townsend JS, Basile KC, Richardson LC. Cancer screening and history of sexual violence victimization among U.S. adults. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2012 Jan;21(1):17-25. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2011.2751. Epub 2011 Oct 19. PMID: 22011207.

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