Impact of Untreated Depression on Surgical Outcomes in Cancer Patients

Depression is linked to various physical health challenges, including disrupted sleep and an increased risk of developing cancer. Recent research highlights that depression can also negatively influence surgical recovery and increase healthcare costs for cancer patients.

A study presented at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Clinical Congress 2025 in Chicago investigated how depression affects post-surgical outcomes. The research, conducted by scientists from The Ohio State University and its Wexner Medical Center, found that patients experiencing depression generally had poorer recovery results following surgery for abdominal cancers such as colorectal, hepatobiliary, and pancreatic cancers.

Importantly, the study revealed that patients who were treated with antidepressants demonstrated better surgical outcomes compared to those with untreated depression. These outcomes included shorter hospital stays, lower readmission rates, and reduced mortality. Overall, patients without any depression had the lowest medical costs, while those with depression, especially untreated, faced higher expenses.

"Treating mental health issues like depression is crucial for improving overall patient outcomes," said Erryk S. Katayama, a medical student and lead author of the study. His team analyzed data from SEER-Medicare, focusing on patients diagnosed with depression around their cancer treatment period. They distinguished between patients who received antidepressant prescriptions and those who did not, assessing their post-surgical recovery by tracking complications, hospital length of stay, readmission rates, and mortality within 90 days.

The findings showed that depression, regardless of treatment, was associated with worse post-surgical recovery and higher healthcare costs. However, patients on antidepressants experienced notable improvements, emphasizing the importance of mental health management prior to surgery.

The research also underscores the significance of screening for depression in cancer patients before surgery to tailor care plans better and prevent adverse outcomes. Dr. Pawlik, senior author of the study, highlighted that addressing mental health could improve patient adherence to treatments and overall health. The study was prompted by heightened mental health awareness during the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed the extensive social and psychological needs affecting health outcomes.

Limitations of the study include its reliance on prescription data as an indicator of treatment, without information on whether patients were in therapy or seeing mental health professionals. Nevertheless, the evidence suggests that comprehensive patient care should incorporate mental health screening and intervention to optimize surgical results and reduce costs.

These findings serve as a reminder that mental health should be an integral part of surgical planning and patient care, especially for those battling cancer.