New research finds that support groups help breast cancer survivors live longer.
Scientists at Ohio State University say the groups provide emotional support and counseling, which improves the survivors mental health. That seems to extend their lives.
The breast cancer survivors were tracked for 11 years. Those who went to weekly support groups for at least a year, were 46 percent less likely to have a breast cancer recurrence.
The participants say they learned how to reduce their stress, and researchers believe that may bolster the immune system.
Not all experts agree support groups prolong life, but there is consensus that therapy improves quality of life for the cancer patients.
