Cancer is a complex and challenging disease that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause physical, emotional, social, and financial difficulties for patients and their families. Fortunately, there are many types of cancer support treatments that can help people cope with the effects of cancer.
Here is a bit of information about cancer support treatments to help you better understand them.
What Are Cancer Support Treatments?
Cancer support treatments are services or programs that aim to improve the quality of life of cancer patients and their caregivers. They can address various aspects of cancer care, such as:
- Providing information and education about cancer and its treatment
- Offering emotional and psychological support and counseling
- Helping with practical issues, such as transportation, lodging, financial assistance, insurance, legal matters, and employment
- Enhancing physical well-being and comfort, such as managing pain, nausea, fatigue, and other side effects of treatment
- Promoting healthy behaviors, such as quitting smoking, eating well, exercising, and reducing stress
- Facilitating social interaction and peer support among people with similar experiences
- Assisting with spiritual or existential concerns and coping strategies
- Preparing for end-of-life care and bereavement
Where Can You Find Cancer Support Treatments?
Cancer support treatments are available from various sources. They include:
- Your health care team. This includes your doctors, nurses, social workers, psychologists, pharmacists, dietitians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, genetic counselors, and palliative care specialists.
- Your hospital or cancer center. These facilities may offer programs, such as genetic testing, long-term follow-up clinics, pain clinics, stress management programs, survivor wellness programs, and vocational rehabilitation.
- Local or national cancer organizations. Helpful organizations can include the American Cancer Society (ACS), which may offer programs such as a round-the-clock cancer helpline, lodging during treatment, rides to treatment, mastectomy products, and an online support network.
- Community resources. Community groups, such as local support groups, faith-based organizations, volunteer agencies, libraries, and senior centers, can also be helpful.
How Can You Benefit From Cancer Support Treatments?
Cancer support treatments can have many benefits for you and your loved ones. They can help you:
- Understand your diagnosis and treatment options better
- Feel more in control of your situation and make informed decisions
- Express your feelings and concerns and cope with them effectively
- Reduce your stress and anxiety and improve your mood
- Enhance your self-esteem and body image
- Maintain your physical function and independence
- Manage your symptoms and side effects better
- Prevent or treat complications of cancer or its treatment
- Improve your communication with your healthcare team and family members
- Strengthen your social support network and relationships
- Find meaning and purpose in your life
To learn more about cancer support treatments, schedule a consultation with a physician in your local area.
