Cancer survivor: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|An individual who has survived cancer}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}} | |||
A ''' | ==Overview== | ||
A '''cancer survivor''' is an individual who has been diagnosed with [[cancer]] and has completed initial treatment, living beyond the disease. The term encompasses a wide range of experiences and stages, from those who are in remission to those who are living with cancer as a chronic condition. Survivorship begins at the time of diagnosis and continues through the rest of the person's life. | |||
== | ==Stages of Cancer Survivorship== | ||
Cancer survivorship can be divided into three distinct phases: | |||
===Acute Survivorship=== | |||
This phase begins at diagnosis and continues through the end of initial treatment. During this time, the focus is on treating the cancer and managing side effects. Patients often experience a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and hope. | |||
== Survivorship == | ===Extended Survivorship=== | ||
This phase occurs after the completion of initial treatment. Patients may still undergo maintenance therapy or regular monitoring. The focus shifts to recovery, managing long-term side effects, and monitoring for recurrence. Survivors often face challenges such as adjusting to a "new normal" and dealing with the psychological impact of their experience. | |||
===Permanent Survivorship=== | |||
In this phase, the risk of cancer recurrence is significantly reduced, and the focus is on long-term health and quality of life. Survivors may still deal with late effects of treatment and require ongoing health care. | |||
== Challenges == | ==Challenges Faced by Cancer Survivors== | ||
Cancer survivors may face a variety of challenges, including: | |||
* '''Physical Health Issues''': Long-term side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, pain, and cognitive changes. | |||
* '''Emotional and Psychological Impact''': Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among survivors. | |||
* '''Social and Economic Concerns''': Changes in relationships, employment challenges, and financial burdens due to medical expenses. | |||
== | ==Support and Resources== | ||
Support for cancer survivors is crucial for improving their quality of life. Resources include: | |||
* '''Support Groups''': Provide a community for sharing experiences and coping strategies. | |||
* '''Counseling and Therapy''': Professional help for dealing with emotional and psychological issues. | |||
* '''Rehabilitation Programs''': Focus on physical recovery and managing long-term side effects. | |||
== | ==Cancer Survivors Park== | ||
[[File:Cancer_Survivors_Park-2.jpg|thumb|right|Cancer Survivors Park]] | |||
The Cancer Survivors Park is a symbolic space dedicated to celebrating the lives of cancer survivors and providing a place for reflection and healing. These parks often feature sculptures, gardens, and walking paths designed to inspire hope and resilience. | |||
==Related pages== | |||
* [[Cancer]] | * [[Cancer]] | ||
* [[Oncology]] | * [[Oncology]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Remission (medicine)]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Quality of life (healthcare)]] | ||
[[Category:Cancer]] | [[Category:Cancer]] | ||
[[Category:Survivorship]] | [[Category:Survivorship]] | ||
Latest revision as of 05:33, 16 February 2025
An individual who has survived cancer
Overview[edit]
A cancer survivor is an individual who has been diagnosed with cancer and has completed initial treatment, living beyond the disease. The term encompasses a wide range of experiences and stages, from those who are in remission to those who are living with cancer as a chronic condition. Survivorship begins at the time of diagnosis and continues through the rest of the person's life.
Stages of Cancer Survivorship[edit]
Cancer survivorship can be divided into three distinct phases:
Acute Survivorship[edit]
This phase begins at diagnosis and continues through the end of initial treatment. During this time, the focus is on treating the cancer and managing side effects. Patients often experience a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and hope.
Extended Survivorship[edit]
This phase occurs after the completion of initial treatment. Patients may still undergo maintenance therapy or regular monitoring. The focus shifts to recovery, managing long-term side effects, and monitoring for recurrence. Survivors often face challenges such as adjusting to a "new normal" and dealing with the psychological impact of their experience.
Permanent Survivorship[edit]
In this phase, the risk of cancer recurrence is significantly reduced, and the focus is on long-term health and quality of life. Survivors may still deal with late effects of treatment and require ongoing health care.
Challenges Faced by Cancer Survivors[edit]
Cancer survivors may face a variety of challenges, including:
- Physical Health Issues: Long-term side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, pain, and cognitive changes.
- Emotional and Psychological Impact: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common among survivors.
- Social and Economic Concerns: Changes in relationships, employment challenges, and financial burdens due to medical expenses.
Support and Resources[edit]
Support for cancer survivors is crucial for improving their quality of life. Resources include:
- Support Groups: Provide a community for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
- Counseling and Therapy: Professional help for dealing with emotional and psychological issues.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Focus on physical recovery and managing long-term side effects.
Cancer Survivors Park[edit]
The Cancer Survivors Park is a symbolic space dedicated to celebrating the lives of cancer survivors and providing a place for reflection and healing. These parks often feature sculptures, gardens, and walking paths designed to inspire hope and resilience.
