with Patricia B. MirasolProducer
Survivorship care — or the physical, psychological, non-medical, and economic impact of any cancer survivor — is an underrepresented part of the disease’s journey, according to breast cancer survivors at an October 4 forum. benefit CanServe Foundation (ICS).
Survivorship care aims to prevent and manage side effects of treatment, and can include chronic fatigue, bone loss, and financial toxicity.
“Many think that after radiotherapy, after chemotherapy, that’s it [it’s done],” said Doris Nuval of the ICS board of directors. “That’s just the beginning.”
Survival begins at the time of diagnosis, according to Dr. Don S. Dizon, director of medical oncology at Rhode Island Hospital and gynecological cancer specialist.
“You are not a “lone” survivor; it includes your family, friends, and loved ones,” he said at the event on October 4.
The four key components of survivorship care, he said, are:
- detection and monitoring of recurrent or new cancers;
- interventions for long-term and late effects of cancer;
- preventing recurrent or new cancer; again
- communication between providers to ensure that all health needs are met.
“This fourth is important because if you have breast cancer, you are less likely to be tested for bowel cancer. You are less likely to get the flu because no one took ownership of that care,” said Dr. Dizon.
Cancer survivors will have to adjust to their new environment, which may include chronic fatigue.
“Another way to manage fatigue and not just accept it as a recognized problem is to correct any underlying factors, such as anemia,” said Dr. Dizon. “Maintain or increase physical activity and get mental support.”
Trust what your body tells you, and tell the audience.
“The way a person looks and feels in their skin tells them something,” he said. “Bone pain that wakes you up at night is something you should talk to your doctor about.”
He added: “If your doctor doesn’t answer your questions, don’t be afraid to say, ‘I think I might have a relapse.’ That will create direct discussions.”
The World Health Organization has reported 33,079 new cases of breast cancer in the Philippines by 2022 – one of the highest figures in Asia.
A study conducted by the Philippine Cancer Society and the Department of Health’s Rizal Cancer Registry recorded 1,615 breast cancer patients in 2009, showing an increase in incidence from 1980 to 2022.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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