Love life could affect cancer survival

August 27, 2009 A new Indiana University study looked at the survival rates of cancer patients who were either married, widowed, divorced, separated or had never been married when they learned they had cancer.

Researchers found that patients separated at the time of diagnosis had lower survival rates then all other groups and significantly lower than those of married patients.

Experts say the stress of separation may weaken the immune system and create a greater vulnerability to cancer.