A Comprehensive Guide
As cancer survivors, we know firsthand the challenges that come with cancer survivorship. The journey can be long and difficult, and knowing where to turn for support can be hard. We are here to share our experiences and knowledge about holistic healing and cancer survivorship.
Understanding cancer survivorship is the first step in the journey. It’s important to know that survivorship begins at the moment of diagnosis and continues throughout the rest of our lives.
We face physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that require a holistic approach to care. This includes traditional medical treatments, complementary therapies, healthy lifestyle choices, and psychosocial support.
At times, cancer survivorship can feel overwhelming. We may experience physical side effects from treatment, emotional distress, and financial burdens. However, we have found that a holistic approach to cancer care can help us navigate these challenges and improve our quality of life. By focusing on the whole person, we can address our survivorship journey’s physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
Key Takeaways
- Cancer survivorship begins at the moment of diagnosis and continues throughout the rest of our lives.
- A holistic approach to cancer care can help us navigate the challenges of survivorship and improve our quality of life.
- By focusing on the whole person, we can address our survivorship journey’s physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
Understanding Cancer Survivorship
As cancer survivors, we know that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. We understand the physical and emotional toll that cancer and its treatment can take on our bodies and our minds.
Cancer survivorship, or CS, is the time between cancer diagnosis and the end of life that encompasses the totality of medical and psychosocial care, side effects from treatments, development of secondary cancers, remission, and ultimately death [1].
Cancer is a complex disease that affects people of all ages, races, and genders. According to the American Cancer Society, there were an estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases and 608,570 cancer deaths in the United States in 2021 [2]. The incidence and mortality rates of cancer vary depending on the type of cancer and the population affected. Early detection, staging, and treatment have improved survival rates for many types of cancer, but survivors may experience long-term effects of cancer and its treatment.
Secondary cancers are a concern for many cancer survivors. Some cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, can increase the risk of developing secondary cancer. Cancer survivors need to receive regular medical follow-up care to monitor for the development of secondary cancers [3].
Research in cancer survivorship is ongoing, and many resources are available to support cancer survivors. Survivorship care plans, which outline the survivor’s diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, can help survivors and their healthcare providers manage survivorship care [4].
Above Resources
[1] Sheikh-Wu, S. F., Anglade, D., & Downs, C. A. (2023). A cancer survivorship model for holistic cancer care and research. Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal, 33(1), 4-16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9894370/
[2] American Cancer Society. (2021). Cancer Facts & Figures 2021. https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/cancer-facts-figures-2021.html
[3] Oliveira, R. A., Mota, D. D. C., & Almeida, A. M. (2018). Importance of follow-up care for cancer survivors. Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem, 71(1), 3-9. https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-71672018000100003
[4] National Cancer Institute. (2020). Survivorship Care Plans. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/survivorship/planning/survivorship-care-plans
Challenges in Survivorship
Surviving cancer is a humbling experience that a range of challenges can accompany. While the journey to recovery is different for everyone, there are some common challenges that cancer survivors may face.
As a two-time survivor of lymphoma, we understand the difficulties that come with cancer survivorship and hope to help other survivors navigate this journey.
One of the most significant challenges that cancer survivors face is the uncertainty that comes with living with a chronic disease. Even after completing treatment, survivors may experience ongoing symptoms and side effects that can impact their quality of life. Pain, fatigue, nausea, and other symptoms can be debilitating and affect daily activities.
In addition to physical symptoms, cancer survivors may experience emotional challenges such as anxiety, stress, and trauma. The collateral damage of cancer can extend beyond the physical body and impact a survivor’s identity, relationships, and daily routines. It is essential to acknowledge and address these emotional challenges to support the overall well-being of cancer survivors.
Another challenge that cancer survivors face is the need to prioritize their health and wellness. It can be challenging to balance the demands of daily life with the ongoing medical care and self-care needed to maintain health. Finding a support system, whether it be through friends, family, or support groups, can be crucial in navigating these challenges.
Cancer survivorship is a journey that comes with a range of challenges. Survivors may experience ongoing symptoms, emotional challenges, and uncertainty about the future. However, with the proper support and resources, survivors can navigate these challenges and live fulfilling lives.
Holistic Approach to Cancer Care
At its core, holistic cancer care treats the whole person, not just the disease. We believe that cancer treatment should be individualized and supportive, considering each patient’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
We have seen firsthand the benefits of a holistic approach to cancer care, and we believe it should be an integral part of every patient’s treatment plan.
Integrative medicine and integrative oncology are key components of holistic cancer care. These disciplines combine traditional Western medicine with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and meditation. By incorporating these therapies into our treatment plans, we can help manage symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and nausea while also improving overall wellness and quality of life.
Supportive care is also an essential part of holistic cancer care. This type of care is focused on managing the side effects of cancer treatment and helping patients maintain their physical and emotional well-being. Supportive care can include everything from nutritional counseling to palliative care, and it is tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs.
Wellness management is another critical aspect of holistic cancer care. We believe that cancer treatment should not just focus on curing the disease but also on helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness. This can involve everything from exercise and stress reduction to dietary changes and spiritual practices.
A holistic approach to cancer care is essential for the well-being of cancer patients. By combining traditional Western medicine with complementary therapies, supportive care, and wellness management, we can help patients achieve optimal health and well-being throughout their cancer journey.
Complementary Therapies in Survivorship Care
As cancer survivors, we understand the importance of holistic healing in our journey towards recovery. Complementary therapies effectively reduce symptoms and improve quality of life during survivorship care.
Acupuncture has been shown to alleviate cancer-related fatigue, pain, and nausea. Massage therapy can help reduce anxiety, depression, and pain. Yoga has been found to improve sleep, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Supplements and proper nutrition can also play a crucial role in survivorship care. Fish and lard, for example, contain omega-3 fatty acids linked to reduced inflammation and improved immune function. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve overall health.
It is important to note that while complementary therapies can be beneficial, they should not replace conventional cancer treatment. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any complementary therapy.
Incorporating complementary therapies into survivorship care can help us achieve balance and well-being. By taking a holistic approach to our recovery, we can improve our physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Role of Exercise and Healthy Lifestyle
As cancer survivors, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to improve our physical and mental well-being. Exercise is a crucial aspect of a healthy lifestyle that can benefit cancer survivors in many ways. It can help us cope with the side effects of treatment, reduce fatigue, and improve our quality of life.
Research shows regular physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and death [1]. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate exercise into our daily routine. We do not need to engage in strenuous activities; moderate exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can be beneficial [2].
Healthy habits such as a balanced diet and proper nutrition are equally important, along with exercise. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help us maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve our overall health [3].
It is also crucial to limit our alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of cancer recurrence [4]. Therefore, we must be mindful of our alcohol consumption and limit it to a moderate amount.
In conclusion, incorporating exercise and healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet and proper nutrition can help us improve our physical and mental well-being as cancer survivors. Making these habits a part of our daily routine is essential to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9454950/
[2] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/survivorship/be-healthy-after-treatment/physical-activity-and-the-cancer-patient.html
[3] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/fruit-vegetables-fact-sheet
[4] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/alcohol/alcohol-fact-sheet
Psychosocial Aspects of Survivorship
As cancer survivors, we know firsthand that the journey doesn’t end when treatment does. Survivorship is a complex and ongoing process that involves physical, emotional, and psychosocial aspects.
While physical health is essential, addressing psychosocial needs is equally crucial for a holistic approach to cancer care.
Support from family members and caregivers can make a significant difference in a survivor’s quality of life. It is essential to recognize that cancer affects not only the patient but also the loved ones who care for them. Support groups and counseling services can provide survivors and their families a safe space to express their feelings and concerns.
Psychosocial care should be an integral part of follow-up care for cancer survivors. This includes addressing issues such as sadness, anxiety, and social relationship factors. Survivors may experience a range of emotions, including fear of recurrence, guilt, and depression. Providing emotional support and resources to help survivors cope with these feelings is essential.
Support groups can provide a sense of community and connection for survivors. They can provide a space for survivors to share their experiences, learn from one another, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone.
Addressing psychosocial aspects of survivorship is crucial for a holistic approach to cancer care. By providing support, resources, and counseling services, we can help survivors and their families navigate survivorship’s emotional and psychological challenges.
Role of Healthcare Providers in Survivorship
As cancer survivors, we understand the critical role that healthcare providers play in our survivorship journey. Our healthcare providers are our partners in ensuring we receive the best possible care and support throughout our cancer journey.
One of the most critical roles of healthcare providers in survivorship is monitoring our health and well-being. Regular check-ups and screenings are essential in detecting any potential cancer recurrence or other health issues early. This enables us to receive timely treatment and support, improving our chances of long-term survival.
In addition to monitoring our physical health, healthcare providers also play a vital role in supporting our emotional and mental well-being. Counseling and other support services can help us manage the emotional and psychological impact of cancer and its treatment. This can include support for anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
The healthcare system as a whole also plays a significant role in survivorship. Clinical practice guidelines, such as those developed by the National Cancer Institute, provide healthcare providers with evidence-based recommendations for cancer survivorship care. These guidelines ensure that survivors receive consistent, high-quality care, regardless of where they live or receive treatment.
Overall, healthcare providers are critical partners in our survivorship journey. By providing regular monitoring, counseling, and other support services, they help us manage the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of cancer and its treatment.
Research and Studies on Cancer Survivorship
As cancer survivors, we know all too well the importance of research and studies on cancer survivorship. Through research, we can better understand the needs and challenges faced by cancer survivors and develop effective strategies to improve survivorship outcomes.
One qualitative study published in PubMed [1] explored cancer survivors’ experiences and found that survivorship care plans can help improve communication between patients and healthcare providers, leading to better outcomes. Another study found that a patient-centered approach to survivorship care planning may be needed to improve the quality of care received and health outcomes of a growing population of cancer survivors [2].
A cancer survivorship model for holistic cancer care and research was proposed in a cross-sectional study published in CINAHL [3]. The model considers the complex needs of cancer survivors and provides a framework for holistic care that includes physical, emotional, and spiritual support. This model can potentially improve survivorship quality and inform research and clinical practice to promote and optimize survivors’ outcomes throughout the evolving survivorship.
Epidemiology and risk factors are also important areas of research in cancer survivorship. A literature search conducted in Medline [4] found that breast cancer survivors who received a mammogram within the recommended time frame were more likely to have early-stage cancer detected, leading to better outcomes. This highlights the importance of regular screening and early detection in improving survivorship outcomes.
Research and studies on cancer survivorship are essential for improving survivorship outcomes and addressing the complex needs of cancer survivors. By taking a holistic approach to survivorship care and addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of survivors, we can improve the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families.
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27941162/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8718161/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36789222/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28796550/
Looking Ahead: Future of Cancer Survivorship
As cancer survivorship continues to evolve, we must consider the future of cancer care. Digital health technologies can play a significant role in improving cancer survivorship outcomes. By providing access to patient-generated health data, digital health tools can help us better understand the health outcomes of cancer survivors. Furthermore, digital technologies can help us identify comorbidities and prioritize life changes that can improve overall health outcomes.
As a two-time lymphoma survivor, I understand that cancer survivorship is a life-changing experience. We must prioritize life changes that can improve our overall health and well-being. Focusing on maintenance and prevention can reduce the risk of chronic conditions and improve our quality of life.
Family history can also play a significant role in cancer survivorship. By understanding our family history, we can identify potential risks and take steps to reduce our risk of developing cancer. Considering our unique needs and circumstances, we must work with our healthcare providers to build a personalized survivorship care plan.
In the future, we must continue to prioritize cancer survivorship research. By understanding the long-term effects of cancer treatment, we can develop more effective survivorship care plans. Furthermore, we must continue to explore new treatments and technologies that can improve cancer survivorship outcomes.
I’ve created this blog to share my survivorship journey, highlighting the lack of attention given to the survivorship community. We must stay engaged and informed about the latest developments in cancer survivorship to enhance our overall health and well-being. Together, let’s shape the future of cancer survivorship. #CancerSurvivor #SurvivorshipJourney -T
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some alternative treatments for cancer survivors?
As cancer survivors, we understand the importance of seeking alternative treatments to complement traditional cancer therapies. Some alternative treatments that have shown promise include acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation, and yoga. These treatments can help manage the physical and emotional effects of cancer survivorship.
What are the long-term survival rates for cancer survivors?
Long-term survival rates for cancer survivors depend on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, age, overall health, and treatment received. Generally, the five-year survival rate for cancer survivors is around 70%. However, it is essential to note that survival rates can vary widely from person to person.
What are some ways to manage the physical and emotional effects of cancer survivorship?
Managing the physical and emotional effects of cancer survivorship can be challenging, but various strategies can help. These include staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, seeking support from loved ones, and participating in support groups or counseling.
What are some promising new developments in cancer research?
Cancer research is constantly evolving, and there are various promising new developments. Some of these include immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and precision medicine. These treatments can help improve outcomes for cancer survivors and may even lead to a cure in the future.
What lifestyle changes can help prevent cancer from returning?
Making lifestyle changes can help prevent cancer from returning. These changes include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol consumption. Additionally, regular cancer screenings can help detect any potential recurrences early on.
As cancer survivors, we know that the journey can be challenging, but it is essential to stay positive and seek support from loved ones. By caring for ourselves physically and emotionally, we can improve our quality of life and increase our chances of long-term survival.
