What now, Doc?’ 5 ways to move forward after cancer treatment
Written by Nandi J. Reddy, MD
She was one of the first cancer patients I had cared for during my training years. After several months of treatment and watching her tumor shrink, I was excited for her and I said, “Congratulations! The cancer is in remission.”
Looking tired, she mustered enough strength to show her happiness on winning the battle. Then she asked, “What now, Doc?” She started talking about being emotionally and physically fatigued, out of condition, losing weight, feeling lost at work, and heightened stress in her family and social relationships.I realized that while I was focused on treating her disease, I had overlooked the person behind the stoic woman before me. Often, the general well- being of the cancer patient gets lost among the complexities of treatment. Physical and psychosocial rehabilitation is equally important in the path to recovery.
This October, we mark the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness month (NBCAM). It provides us an opportune time to reflect and to change some of the modifiable risk factors for cancer—to prevent, heal, and get on the path to recovery. (Watch this short video for more info about breast cancer and screening.)
As difficult as a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be, survivorship can be a time of introspection. It is a chance for personal growth and making significant lifestyle changes—from appreciating those little things we experience every day, to making a commitment to a wellness plan.
Here are some changes you may want to consider as you move forward.
Eating well
No one knows if a particular diet or nutrients can prevent cancer, but we do know that eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will provide you with the fuel to build strength.
The American Cancer Society recommends that cancer survivors:
- Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
- Choose healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, rather than saturated fats or trans fats.
- Select proteins that are low in saturated fat, such as fish, lean meats, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
- Opt for healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and fruits and vegetables.
Being physically active
Studies have consistently found that adults who increase their physical activity—either in intensity, duration, or frequency—can reduce their risk of developing colon, breast, and lung cancer.Research indicates that physical activity after a diagnosis of breast cancer can help that person improve the quality of life, alleviate fatigue, and avoid weight gain. One study found that women who exercised moderately (three to five hours per week at an average pace) had improved survival rates compared with more sedentary women.
Evidence that exercise reduces the risk of dying from cancer is preliminary. But we've known for years that exercise helps your heart and lungs and keeps you from gaining weight, which is a risk factor for many types of cancer and recurrence of some cancers.
Tailor your activity to how you feel after treatment ends. You can start with small steps, if necessary—take the stairs, for example, or park your car at the end of a lot. wo Wwork physical activity into your day.
Coping with fatigue
Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common side-effects of treatment—and it may last after treatment ends. You can try to combat your fatigue by conserving energy, following a healthy diet, exercising, and managing your stress.
- Conserve energy by organizing your work, resting frequently, and pacing yourself.
- Exercise to regain energy, increase your endurance, and sleep better.
- Manage your stress by setting realistic expectations, use relaxation techniques, and seek support from family and friends.
Tending to your emotional well- being
Feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence can slow your recovery, so it's important to make positive changes in your life.
- Join a support group and share your experience.
- Make time for friends and family who have a positive influence in your life.
- Have fun, be active, and participate in events that bring you joy and happiness.
In other words, focus on living. Recovering from cancer is not just a physical process. You must also heal your emotional self. Being open about your fears will help you to cope with them.
Quitting smokingIf you're a smoker and cancer survivor, you may think it's not important to quit. After all, you've already had cancer. What more harm can happen?
Quitting smoking matters for cancer survivors. Continuing the habit puts you at risk for getting cancer again—perhaps a return of your original cancer or a new cancer.
It doesn't matter how old you are or how long you've been a smoker. Quitting will help you live a healthier—and longer—life. There are many resources to help you through the American Cancer Society.
Going forward
Recognizing the evolving needs of today’s cancer survivors, Lancaster General Health offers a Supportive Services and Survivorship Program, founded and supported by the United Auxiliaries to Lancaster General Hospital,that addresses many of the needs of patients and former patients. You can read more about it in this related article, “A Survivorship Plan.”
As you can see, the keys to a healthy survivorship are really not different from what everyone needs to do to stay healthy—eat right, get active, be happy, and do not smoke. Once you complete treatment, however, these simple steps are even more important to follow. You are no longer a patient. You are a survivor.
Written By Nandi J. Reddy, MD
Dr. Nandi J.Reddy is a hematologist/oncologist with Hematology Oncology Medical Specialists in Lancaster. He has experience in researching drugs for cancer treatment and also has worked in medically under-served areas, providing a range of care, including pediatrics, primary care, geriatrics, and emergency medicine.
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