Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series: The Science of Mind-Body Interactions in Cancer Survivorship

Featuring Dr. Julienne Bower, PhD, UCLA

This lecture will focus on the interactions between psychology and the immune system in cancer patients and survivors through examination of the links among the central nervous system, the immune system, and tumor biology. A central focus of Dr. Bower’s work is on the translation of basic findings in psychoneuroimmunology into effective behavioral interventions for cancer patients and survivors. 

Core questions include: how do positive psychological factors, such as benefit finding, positive affect, and well-being, influence physical health? What are the biological pathways that link positive psychological states and health outcomes? What are the immune effects of mood and behavior, including fatigue, depression, and sleep disturbance? What interventions have potential to influence immune and neuroendocrine function after cancer?

Dr. Bower is Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Associate Director of the Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, and affiliated with the Center for Cancer Prevention and Control Research at UCLA.