The CQU-based International Program of Psycho-Social Health Research (IPP-SHR) is undertaking a study to explore the link between steroid use in cancer therapy and negative psychiatric and emotional side effects.

This pilot study is a response to anecdotal reports by health professionals and patients that steroids, whilst playing an important role in the treatment of cancers, result in a range of distressing psychological side effects. 

Dr Pam McGrath

The scant information that exists on patients' experiences of steroid use in cancer treatment suggests that challenging side effects such as aggression, depression and psychological withdrawal are not uncommon.  

According to IPP-SHR researcher Dr Pam McGrath, "using research to gain more knowledge of the impacts of steroid use is essential in informing evidenced-based therapeutic responses to manage distressing side effects".

"Preliminary findings indicate that emotional difficulties with steroids are not related to previous psychological problems. Indeed, the evidence suggests that difficulties with steroids can affect anyone undergoing treatment for haematological cancers."

Further information on this and other IPP-SHR studies is published in IPP-SHR's quarterly newsletter ‘Psycho-Social Update', available online at http://www.ipp-shr.cqu.edu.au/. 

IPP-SHR is a collaborative initiative jointly funded by Central Queensland University and National Health & Medical Research Council. It aims to document and examine the human experience of serious illness and ‘make a difference' to those at the coalface of healthcare.