The word "cancer" refers to abnormal cells that grow uncontrollably. Cancer is not a single disease. It can involve any type of cell, anywhere in your body. And it starts with a problem in the cell's genes.
There are many types of cancers. They can behave in very different ways. When a patient is diagnosed with cancer, doctors evaluate and classify the cancer's characteristics. This process is known as cancer "staging." Staging helps doctors design effective cancer treatment plans.
During the course of your cancer treatment, your doctor may tell you that your cancer is in "remission." This is great news, but it isn't the same as saying that you have been cured. There are two types of remission, "partial" and "complete." It is important to fully understand what each diagnosis means.
An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in cancer care. They identify cancer and find ways to treat it. They work closely with you to develop an effective care plan.
A diagnosis of cancer changes your life. It changes the lives of your loved ones, too. It may leave you facing some unexpected challenges. But you don't have to let cancer rob you of your happiness. There are healthy ways to deal with cancer. Here are some coping strategies.
During cancer treatment, you may wonder how things will turn out. Your doctor can tell you how your cancer is likely to affect you. Your doctor also can explain how you may respond to treatment. This is called your cancer "prognosis." Your prognosis helps you make decisions about your care.
As part of your cancer care, your doctor may show you survival statistics. This information can help you understand how your disease is likely to progress. The statistics come from the medical histories of large groups of similar cancer patients.
Finding out you have breast cancer can be shocking. You may feel overwhelmed. You may be unsure of what to do next. So let's stop for a moment, take a deep breath and look at the path ahead.
It's difficult to find out you have breast cancer when you're pregnant. You worry about your health, and the health of your baby. Treatment can be complex. Let's talk about the road ahead.
As part of your cancer treatment, you may have the option to take part in a clinical trial. This is a study of a drug or a procedure, usually one that has not yet been approved for widespread use. Clinical trials help doctors determine which treatments are effective and which are not.
Congratulations, you've finished your cancer treatment. Instead of frequent doctor visits and test results, you can finally start living again. But you may find that life just feels different now. So let's take a few minutes to look at the road ahead.
