The following article, written by Dr.
James B. Dougherty, Jr., Deputy Physician-in-Chief, Clinical Affairs,
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, is adapted from Newsweek magazine. The
article appeared in a Health & Fitness supplement in Newsweek's October 28,
1996, issue.
Many people still think of a cancer diagnosis
as an automatic death sentence. Today, we know this is not necessarily so. While
cancer is an undeniably serious and in some cases a life-threatening disease,
there is good reason for optimism. Within the past decade, cancer research has
led to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. As a result, more than
half of patients diagnosed with cancer today are successfully treated, and many
others will lead long, productive lives well after their initial diagnosis.
The good news, however, should not diminish
the solemn nature of the disease. Cancer is often treated aggressively, and
newly diagnosed patients are typically faced with the prospect of making
important decisions at a time when they feel deeply anxious and fearful. Some
guidelines follow to help patients understand what lies ahead after a cancer
diagnosis.
Consider a Second Opinion
Shock and disbelief are among the most common initial reactions to a cancer
diagnosis. Seeking a second opinion is often useful for confirming a diagnosis
and reassuring patients about its accuracy. It also gives patients an
opportunity to verify a recommended treatment plan or explore another treatment
option. Your primary care doctor can usually recommend an oncologist to consult
for a second opinion. Also, regional cancer centers, or in some cases local
hospitals, have physician referral services to put you in touch with cancer
specialists. The National Cancer Institute also can refer you to cancer experts
in your area.
Is My Doctor Qualified?
The above-mentioned resources also can help you determine if your physician is
qualified to treat your particular condition. It also is reasonable for you to
ask your doctor about his or her experience and qualifications, such as whether
he or she is board-certified in a particular speciality. In addition, an
important component of good cancer care is establishing rapport and trust
between physician and patient. Patients and their doctors must be able to work
together to treat the cancer most effectively. And as a patient, you should
understand the goals of the treatment plan you and your doctor agree upon. The
plan should include a time line that lets you know how long the therapy is
expected to last and when you and the doctor will determine if the treatment is
effective.
A Multidisciplinary Treatment Approach
Cancer is an incredibly broad term that encompasses more than 100 different
diseases. Tumors can develop in almost every tissue in the body, and rarely are
two alike. This means that patients with the same type of cancer may receive
different treatments. Cancer therapies often are tailored to a patient's age and
medical history, as well as the particular tumor type and stage. In many cases,
this will involve a multidisciplinary approach provided by a team of physicians
that may include a medical oncologist, radiation therapist, or surgeon. This
helps to ensure that you are being cared for by doctors who have broad
experience in treating cancer.
Getting Answers to Your Questions
The questions and concerns you have about your condition and treatment are
important, and your physician should make time to give you answers. However,
physicians often wait for clues from their patients to determine how much to
say. You should let your doctor know if you want more information. Also, it is
often helpful to have a friend or family member accompany you when you discuss
various treatment options with your doctor. A companion can provide an extra
pair of "ears" or ask questions you might not think of.
What Does Cancer Treatment Involve?
It is a misconception that most cancer treatments involve extended hospital
stays or are extremely debilitating and painful. Many cancer therapies,
including chemotherapy, are now administered on an outpatient basis, which often
allows patients to resume normal daily living more quickly. Some side effects --
namely nausea, hair loss, and tiredness -- are still common, but they are often
temporary. Today, quality of life is extremely important in cancer care. New
therapies now enable many patients to lead relatively normal lives, including
keeping regular work and exercise schedules.
The Emotional Side
Studies suggest that patients who are fully informed about their disease and
treatment options tend to have better outcomes and fewer side effects than those
who simply follow doctors' orders. Being informed appears to drive a positive
psychological outlook that enables patients to feel like they have some degree
of control over the course of their disease. However, the emotional impact of
living with cancer can be overwhelming. Feeling anxious is normal, but if your
anxiety leads to prolonged insomnia, loss of appetite, a lack of interest in
your normal activities, or a preoccupation with death, it is time to consider
outside support. Cancer support groups may be accessible through the hospital
where you are receiving treatment or in your community.You may also consider
individual or family counseling or turn to a minister or rabbi for spiritual
support.