Psychoneuroimmunology: a theoretical basis for occupational therapy in oncology?

Abstract

Psychoneuroimmunology is the scientific study of the physiological two-way link between the mind and the immune system. It is difficult to find published results of clinical controlled trials of the therapeutic effects of occupational therapy modalities in cancer care. The roots of occupational therapy have been neglected and perhaps forgotten in England's NHS, resulting in the loss of professional identity. The original occupational therapy ethos is, however, supported by psychoneuroimmunology research findings. This article looks at the oncology-specific psychoneuroimmunology literature and its implications for cancer treatment. It highlights the point that further research based on psychoneuroimmunology could contribute to an evidence base for occupational therapy in oncology.