With the advancements in treatments and improvements in diagnosing cancer, the number of cancer survivors has increased significantly over the years. There were 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States in 2019, and some estimates show that by 2030, there could be more than 22.2 million survivors, according to the National Cancer Institute.
“A survivor is someone who’s been diagnosed with cancer, and that term can be applied throughout the time of their treatment and well beyond,” says Ahsan Basha, MD, Riverside Oncologist and Oncology Medical Director.
For those of us who have not gone through a cancer journey, it may be surprising that survivors can face a new set of challenges even after treatment has ended. Some of these challenges may include:
- Fear of cancer recurring
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Guilt about being a survivor
- Uncertainty about the future
- Dealing with long-term effects of treatment in everyday life
Considering that survivors face new challenges, it is important to continue to support them even after treatment has ended. Support can look different for different people, but simple things like being a good listener, taking their challenges seriously, and showing up when they need extra support are great places to start.
Dr. Basha says, “Survivorship is not just about beating cancer; it’s about reclaiming your life and finding meaning beyond the diagnosis.”
To learn more about Oncology services at Riverside click here.