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Cancer Recurrences And Its Psychological Implications

With advancements in healthcare research and medical technologies, cancer is now gradually considered to be a curable disorder. However, amidst this spark of hope, lies a black spot that people tend to ignore known as cancer reoccurrence.

Surviving cancer is not always all rainbows and butterflies. It leads the patient to continue living with a dark mindset that can be difficult to overcome emotionally. While it is hard to ignore the anxieties associated with cancer and fretting about them, trying to stay positive can change the outlook of dealing with the psychological effects of recurrent cancer.

What is Cancer Recurrence?

Cancer reoccurrence is a phenomenon in a patient where the cancer cells that were previously diagnosed begins multiplying back in the patient. The recurrence of these cancerous cells is considered only if the patients start showing symptoms only after a year. In certain cases, cancer may recur more than once, developing at the same place or in a whole new organ in the body. These types of cancers are comparatively more fatal than the original type of cancer diagnosed in the patient. Though the advancement in clinical trials helps manage the cancer symptoms and in eradicating the cancer cells all over again, the chances of survival in metastatic recurrences is minimal.

What is Fear of Cancer Recurrence?

In case of cancer, unfortunately, the worries do not cease to stop after the treatment gets over. This is mostly common among patients with little or no chances of recurrences. Described as an unpredictable phenomenon and an unforeseen challenge, the fear of cancer recurrence starts developing amongst the cancer survivors, causing them distress and fear regarding their future health and wellbeing. It contributes to various other psychological morbidities. Patients show depressive behavioral patterns of losing hope of survival and living with disabilities as they continue to lead a stressful lifestyle even after years of end of treatment.

Responding to Fear of Cancer Recurrence

The pattern of responding to the anxiety and fear of cancer recurrence may differ from patient to patient. While some may seek reassurance from family and friends, others may insist on getting screened and examined by their oncologists to rule out signs of recurrence. There are patients who choose to avoid their emotions, resulting in skipping follow-up consultations, or isolate themselves socially.

Coping with Fear of Cancer Recurrences

There is, undoubtedly, an immediate need to focus on post-cancer care treatment plan, focusing on psychological and emotional well-being of patients since thinking will not overcome fear but taking action will. It is not unusual for a patient to live with the fear of recurrence of cancer, especially after the initial phases of treatment. The idea is not to look back but feel happy about the distance covered in the journey of recovery. The process of acceptance, living with anxiety and uncertainty can be overcome with:

· Identifying and understanding emotions instead of hiding them, and talking to a trusted friend, mental health advisor or family member to help overcome fears.

· Normalize your fears when you go for tests. Talk to your doctor and get your doubts answered to reduce your anxieties.

· Making healthy choices in terms of nutrition, staying active and adequate sleep can do wonders for your physical and emotional health. Avoid unhealthy habits like smoking or consuming alcohol.

· Stay informed about recurrence patterns and watch for symptoms. It helps what to expect and are prepared better to deal with it.

· Do not alter your follow-up care plan or ignore the physician’s instructions. The main goal of such plans is to check if there are chances of recurrences and tracks your pace of recovery.

· Seek help when you feel helpless, anxious while doing your daily activities, or taking decisions in life. A professional and certified counsellor can help sort out your fears, motivate you and help you overcome your chronic anxiety or fear.

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Dr. Srinivasa B J

Guest Author Medical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Hospital Bengaluru

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