Understanding Cancer
Don Sterner

Many people feel helpless when they are first told they have cancer. They think there is nothing they can do other than hand themselves over to doctors and hospitals. This is not so. There are many things you and your family can do at this time. One of the first should be to gain some level of understanding about the disease and its treatment so that you can begin to cope with the immediate future.

There are many people living with cancer: 1 in 3 people will develop cancer at some stage during their lifetime.

A diagnosis of cancer can profoundly change a person's life. People with cancer, their families and friends can experience panic, despair and uncertainty. This will affect many parts of their lives, their relationships and the preception of the future.

People with cancer leave a familiar and secure world and enter a new one of hospitals, specialists, medical terminology, medications and treatments. Up to the time of diagnosis, the only doctor many people may have encountered is the family physician who they may have known for years. Now, they may be referred to a range of specialists at an unfamiliar cancer hospital, who may advise on variety of treatment options.

Faced with such difficulties and new circumstances, people with cancer are sometimes not given enough information to enable them to understand their illness, treatment options and side effects - or even which specialist to call if there is an emergency. The diagnosis is likely to be given by a specialist who can spend only a few minutes in discussion. In most cases it is left to the patient to seek out resources to help them understand and come to terms with the disease at a time when this may be extremely difficult.

Understanding your Illness

Everyone affected by a diagnosis of cancer should ideally have access to a range of information and emotional and social support tailored to their own particular needs. Relevant, up-to-date information and appropriate support will improve understanding and help people manage their cancer and its treatment. This should include all aspects of treatment and should recognize the particular physical, psychological, spiritual, social and emotional needs that such a diagnosis can bring.

Information and support may well improve one's quality of life through reduced uncertainty, anxiety and depression. It may also increase satisfaction with the services, increase the sense of involvement in treatment decisions and facilitate communication with family, friends and staff.

For information to be of value it generally must come from a reliable source. Personal medical information should come from a doctor who is familiar with your medical background. It can be useful to make a list of questions before your visit or take a friend or relative with you.

At times, you may not be able to do some of the things that you used to take for granted. But as you begin to feel better, you can set simple goals and gradually build up confidence. Take things slowly and one step at a time.

Many people talk about "fighting their illness" or "killing the dragon." This mindset can help some people. You begin by learning and by becoming involved in your care. You can become an active part of your treatment team.

What Information to Seek?

Diagnosis and treatment

• The type of cancer and its prognosis
• Relevant investigations and tests
• Treatment options, with pros and cons
• Side effects
• Clinical trials where relevant
• Explanation of medical terms
• Names and means of contact of medical specialists and support staff
• Name of person responsible for meeting information needs
• Guidance on when to contact the support staff and who to contact in off hours
• How to obtain a second opinion

Support

• Names of counseling services, support and self-help groups
• Opportunities to meet former patients
• Relevant social, hospital and community services
• Practical help
• Financial advice services
• Description of complementary therapies
• A right to confidentiality