Cancer Survivorship
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Cancer Survivorship
What is Cancer Survivorship?
- Cancer survivorship begins at the time of diagnosis and continues through the remainder of life.
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It includes people who are:
- Undergoing active treatment
- In remission or cancer-free
- Living with stable or chronic cancer
Phases of Survivorship
Phase
Description
Acute
During treatment – focus on cure or control
Extended
Post-treatment – recovery, watchful follow-up
Permanent/Long-term
Years after treatment – focus on health maintenance, QOL
Common Challenges Survivors Face
Category
Examples
Physical
Fatigue, pain, neuropathy, sexual dysfunction
Psychosocial
Anxiety, depression, fear of recurrence, body image issues
Social/Vocational
Return to work, family dynamics, financial stress
Late Effects
Secondary cancers, heart/lung damage (from RT/chemo)
Key Components of Survivorship Care
- Surveillance for recurrence and new cancers
- Management of long-term and late effects
- Health promotion – diet, exercise, smoking cessation
- Psychosocial support – counseling, support groups
- Care coordination between oncologists, PCPs, and specialists
Lifestyle & Health Promotion
Healthy Habits
Recommendations
Diet
Balanced, plant-based diet; limit processed meats/alcohol
Exercise
At least 150 min/week of moderate activity
Mental health
Mindfulness, therapy, social support
Follow-ups
Regular medical check-ups and screenings
Key Points
- Cancer survivorship is a lifelong process, not just the end of treatment
- Focuses on holistic well-being, not just disease surveillance
- Requires personalized follow-up care and proactive support