Survivors can overcome cancer for a new lease on life

The number of people with a history of cancer in the U.S. has quadrupled from three million in 1971 to more than 12 million 40 years later, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But today, 65 per cent of adults diagnosed with cancer will live for at least five years after diagnosis.

Nearly 75 per cent of  children diagnosed will live for at least 10 years.

Of the 12 million survivors in the U.S. last year, 70 per cent were aged 50 to 85.

Sixty per cent had experienced prostate, breast, gynaecological, (ovarian, uterine and cervical) and colorectal cancer.

The increase in survival rates is due to many factors. These include:

• Improvements in early detection of cancer, by screening programmes or guidelines — such as mammography, prostate screening and colonoscopies;
• Development of new technologies that improve diagnosis and cancer treatment;
• Safer drugs, including ones designed to specifically target a type of cancer;
• Improvements to supportive care, both during and after treatment;
• Overall better understanding of the cause of cancer and how it develops in people.

Survivorship

Survivorship is living with, through and beyond cancer, and being free of disease after the completion of treatment.

Persons are considered ‘survivors’ as soon as they are diagnosed with the disease.

Their priorities regarding relationships, career or lifestyle are likely to change.

Many with a history of cancer — or survivors — feel as though they gain a greater acceptance of self, a new perspective on life, and learn to appreciate daily events more, while others become more anxious about their health and uncertain of cancer’s effect on their lives.

Adjusting and learning to live with uncertainty may be a personal struggle for a survivor.

When many survivors complete their treatment, their frequent/regular contact with their healthcare team also comes to an end.

Some will ultimately miss this source of support, especially since most anxieties associated with cancer — including fear, anger, guilt and hopelessness — will begin to surface at this point.

It is important to prepare for this part of the journey to lessen the chance of depression.

Fear of recurrence is very common.

To reduce anxiety it is important for them to speak to their doctor, to discuss risk.

Survivors may also have sexual problems, physical problems or fertility concerns which need to be addressed.

Some may experience discrimination at work or feel that their support or social network is inadequate.

Relationships

Relationships with friends and family will most likely be tested.

They may find that some friends become closer while others will distance themselves.

It is also not uncommon for a survivor’s family members to become overprotective; however, some may exhaust their ability to be supportive.

Either way, each relationship will be changed by the cancer experience.

To help to adapt to life and shifting relationships after cancer, it is important to keep open communication.

Survivorship is a unique journey that is inevitably different for each diagnosed individual.

The American Cancer Society says studies have shown that people who remain optimistic throughout their journey live longer than those who nosedive into despair.

Finding a way to look at things in a positive manner can spare the physical and emotional strength needed to fight cancer. Here are a few tips:

• Express and talk about your feelings — it is normal to feel frustrated, sad, helpless and depressed. Keeping all of your emotions bottled up will only add to already high stress levels. It is important to find someone you can depend on and trust, to speak to on a regular basis.
• Spend time with loved ones — surround yourself with those you love by inviting family and friends over or by visiting them if you are able.
  If you have young children, try and spend more quality time with them by taking part in activities together, including walks, painting, baking, dancing, watching family movies or even taking them fishing.
• Start a journal — this is really helpful for those who have difficulty in sharing their feelings.
  Writing your daily thoughts, including everything you feel and observe — whether good or bad — is a fantastic way to deal with negative emotions.
• Develop a support network — get involved with a support group if available.
  Look for opportunities at church if you are affiliated with one or seek the help of a professional counsellor who can help you deal with your emotions.
• Laugh frequently — laughter is good medicine.
• Keep active — upon approval by your doctor, take up a dance class or start a new hobby.
  Consider trying a class of yoga, tai chi or Pilates; all known to help clear the mind and ease stress.

Optimism

In the end, even though it may be difficult, try and find solace in the fact that survival rates continue to increase, and more effective treatments are constantly being researched and made available.

Take the time to learn how to stay positive, whether day-by-day or hour-by-hour, as it will help to improve your quality of life — cancer or no cancer.

Make an effort to remain optimistic.

Doing so will help you find joy in the moments, regardless of the current circumstances.

Be an advocate for your own health, report any unusual feeings/symptoms to your doctor as soon as possible and maintain your annual check-ups.