As life expectancy increases, more people are likely to encounter cancer. However, millions have been identified with and successfully managed the disease. Early detection through screening blood tests and exams is crucial. Over the years, various methods to address different types of cancer have improved, leading to successful outcomes. On average, 60% of people identified with with cancer each year will live at least five or more years. Often, life expectancy for cancer patients is comparable to that of healthy individuals. The American Institute of Cancer Research emphasizes patient awareness and active participation as key factors in successful cancer management. Below, we provide comprehensive answers to some common questions and describe the emotions many cancer patients experience upon learning about a potential identification.

What is Cancer?

Cancer refers to more than 100 different diseases affecting various parts of the body, characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells that can invade and destroy healthy tissues and organs. These diseases are often named after the body tissue they first attack, such as breast, colon, or skin. Normally, cells divide to produce new cells only when needed. If cells continue to divide unnecessarily, a mass of additional tissue, called a tumor, is created. Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Cancer cells may enter the circulatory or lymphatic system, spreading to other areas of the body. The risk of cancer increases with age and is rarely caused by a single factor. It often results from a complex interaction between environmental carcinogens and genetic factors.

The process involves thousands of genes in every cell of the human body, made of DNA that carries information about protein production. Proteins regulate bodily functions and help metabolize toxins, contributing to infection control. Genes are activated and deactivated through signals from the body or the environment. Factors like an unhealthy diet, smoking, overexposure to the sun, and high levels of chemicals can harm DNA and cause gene mutations. Usually, regulatory genes can identify and fix damaged DNA, preventing it from being copied to new cells. However, if the repair mechanism malfunctions due to inherited or environmental mutations, damaged cells continue to grow and multiply, leading to cancer. While most cancers are not inherited, 5% to 10% are caused by inherited gene mutations. Even with a family history of cancer, it is not inevitable. An unhealthy lifestyle can interact with genes and increase cancer risk. Researchers are making progress in understanding cancer and its causes, improving diagnostic methods and treatment options. Many people who have been successfully treated now live normal, active lives. Recovery begins with a full understanding of the identification and its implications for you and your family.

Understanding the Identification

It is crucial to understand the identification you receive from your Health Care Provider. Strong emotions are natural reactions to a potential cancer identification. Examining the facts objectively will help you make informed decisions in the coming days. If you feel nervous or believe you might not remember everything your Health Care Provider says, consider bringing a relative or friend and ask your Health Care Provider to provide written information or take notes. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Ensure you fully understand what you and your Health Care Provider have discussed. If medical terms are confusing, ask your Health Care Provider to explain them simply. Being well-informed and active in your care is essential. Inform your Health Care Provider that you want to be involved in all aspects of your health and cancer management. Building a strong relationship with your Health Care Provider and medical team is important. A good Health Care Provider should be knowledgeable, supportive, understanding, and willing to explain your options, procedures, and next steps. We hope the following questions will help you feel empowered and responsible for your health and medical care.

Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider or Healthcare Professional

• What type of cancer do I have exactly?

• At what stage is the cancer, and what does this mean?

• How does this affect my options?

• Which other healthcare professionals should I contact, and how can they help me?

• How was my identification determined?

• What tests were done, and what did the results show?

• Do I need any further testing?

• What is the most probable prognosis? (Ask your Health Care Provider for an honest answer about your chances of survival and quality of life.)

• What are the next steps? (Consult an oncologist to determine the appropriate tests and treatments if your current Health Care Provider is not a cancer specialist.)

The Emotional Impact of a Cancer Identification

Personal Reactions

Strong emotions, both positive and negative, are part of a cancer patient’s life. For many, the most intense emotional confusion comes immediately after the identification. Emotions can change rapidly in the first days and weeks. You may experience denial, anger, fear, anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Family members and friends may also feel similar emotions or may try to hide their grief and anxiety by distancing themselves emotionally. These emotions are natural reactions and are usually temporary. Cancer experts suggest addressing and coping with these emotions directly, although methods and timelines may vary according to individual needs.

• Denial: Initially, denial can help lessen the psychological burden of the identification and give you time to process the information. However, denial can be problematic if it prevents you from moving forward with your treatment. Most cancer patients process these emotions before starting their treatment.

• Anger: Once you accept the identification, anger can replace denial. You might ask yourself, “Why did this happen to me?” Feeling angry with the disease or because others are healthy could be a way of hiding other emotions, such as fear or helplessness. Accepting these feelings can help you accept the identification as well.

• Fear: The identification of cancer can be frightening. It can be the fear of pain, death, physical consequences, the cost of treatment, or the burden on your family. Uncertainty about what comes next can cause more fear than the events themselves. Being proactive about your identification and treatment can help you feel more in control and reduce fear.

• Anxiety/Stress: Stress following the identification can cause physical symptoms such as a faster heart rate, headaches, shaking, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances. Stress can also affect your immune system and how well your body fights the disease. Techniques to reduce stress and anxiety include exercise, relaxing music, and talking openly about your feelings. Continuing activities that bring you joy is important. Visiting a psychologist or joining a support group can also help.

• Loneliness: Cancer patients may feel isolated, either because they choose to be alone or because friends’ distance themselves due to the identification. If you feel alone or misunderstood, try to connect with other cancer patients or join a support group.

• Depression: You may feel down about the identification. If symptoms become severe, such as strong feelings of sadness and despair, loss of interest in life, or an inability to continue daily activities, you should inform your Health Care Provider to get appropriate help.

• Hope: Once the initial shock of the identification passes, most people can look to the future with hope. Each case of cancer is unique, making it difficult to predict outcomes accurately. However, knowing that there are improved treatment methods and that many cancer survivors lead full and productive lives can help you and your family feel more optimistic.

Participating in support groups can help many people with cancer overcome some of the emotions described above. If you are interested in joining a support group, please contact the hospital or center where you are being treated for more information.

Family Issues and Management

Adapting to new roles and responsibilities can cause changes in family dynamics. Children may need special attention and guidance, as many of their daily habits are likely to change temporarily. They need to be informed that they are not responsible for the cancer and that their help and support are valuable. Sharing your feelings and needs with your spouse or partner is also very important. If family members are unable to help or have difficulty adapting to the idea of cancer, consult your Health Care Provider or the hospital’s social service. Local organizations and support services can also help you deal with the emotional impacts of the disease.

Psychological Support

Cancer support groups can be a wonderful source of strength, hope, and practical ideas for daily life. Joining a support group can help you plan your week by getting psychological support from people who understand your situation. Some patients find the help of a social worker at a local hospital or healthcare unit invaluable. For others, support may come from a Health Care Provider’s staff member, a relative with similar experiences, or a neighbor who can help when you feel tired.