Linda Carlson

Four focus areas of research for the chair program have been identified: Screening for cancer-related distress,  integrative oncology interventions (including mindfulness and complementary medicine approaches), survivorship; and diversity. The goal of distress screening research is to integrate results regarding how best to treat distress into a complete system of identification of distress, triage and referral to evidence-based treatments. The system developed through the Chair program has been used as a template for developing screening for distress programs throughout Canada. Dr. Carlson’s research in Integrative Oncology investigates the usefulness of a broad range of popular complementary interventions for cancer patients, focusing on both quality of life, stress reduction, psychological and biological outcomes such as immune function and stress hormones.  Mind-body and complementary interventions offered to patients through this program include mindfulness, meditation, yoga, exercise, acupuncture, Reiki, nutritional counseling and support groups.

Areas of study within the survivorship stream are assessing issues around increased risk for future malignancies, fears of recurrence, effects of treatments on neurocognitive function and learning ability, relationships, sexuality and fertility issues, fatigue, disability and return to work issues.