Cancer survivorship focuses on the health and well-being of a cancer patient from the time of diagnosis until the end of life. The exact course of survivorship is a personalised journey that is different for every individual, with cancer progression impacting the type of follow-up treatments required. It is common for cancer care teams to include dietitians, exercise specialists, and psychologists to cover many aspects of care after treatment is over.
For example, Stage 3 cancers carry a risk of mortality and patients would require more stringent follow-ups and screenings for remnant cancer cells once treatment is over. On the other hand, Stage 1 cancer survivors will be less likely to have a relapse and will instead be assessed for other health markers.
Cancer is a life-changing experience that does not end when treatment is over. Even for those in remission, the aftermath of cancer can bring new challenges daily: fatigue that does not go away, side effects that interfere with daily life, and the never-ending anxiety that the cancer could return.
Although cancer treatments such as chemotherapy are powerful and designed to destroy cancerous tissues, it may also end up harming healthy tissues and cells. This may lead to lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional effects that do not show up until years after the treatment is over.
Cancer survivorship care offers rehabilitation programmes to patients to address problems that may surface after cancer treatment, such as fatigue, neuropathy and memory or concentration issues. Regular tests can also help monitor the cancer patient’s health to detect any possible recurrences.
By focusing on the patient’s physical activity, nutrition, and mental health needs, their quality of life can be improved.
Cancer survivorship centres around the patient’s care plan, which is put together by the patient and their cancer care team. The survivorship plan varies from patient to patient, but typically includes:
Fear of Cancer Recurrence (FCR) affects many survivors, causing anxiety and distress. With better understanding and support, patients and doctors can work together to manage these fears. Radiation Oncologist Dr. David Tan and Medical Oncologist Dr. John Chia share more about cancer survivorship and life after cancer treatment.
Advancements in medical technology today offer hope despite the rising incidence of cancer worldwide. With a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including support from experienced clinical oncologists, specialists, and healthcare professionals, many cancers may be effectively treated or managed.
This resource provides information about cancer, including:
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Normally, the body replaces old or damaged cells with new ones. However, genetic mutations or other factors can disrupt this process, leading to the formation of abnormal cells that multiply uncontrollably and form tumors.
Types of Tumors:
Cancer is caused by a complex interplay of factors, including:
Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location. However, some general signs and symptoms include:
Important Note: These symptoms may also be indicative of other health conditions. Speak to our Specialists today for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, you may reduce your risk by:
Farrer Park Cancer Care is supported by a panel of multi-disciplinary oncology experts to guide patients and their caregivers on their cancer journey; using innovative approaches to cancer treatments with new technologies, personalized care plans and therapies.
From understanding a cancer diagnosis to deciding on a treatment plan, we are here to meet the spectrum of needs required by our patients, providing them with clinical care and working together to make informed decisions as we navigate with them through the disease into remission.
