Key Survivorship Issues

 

Cancer survivorship is the experience of living with, through, and beyond cancer. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 12 million American cancer survivors. Cancer survivors often face physical, emotional, social, financial, and organizational challenges due to the disease and/or the treatment of the disease.

 

Cancer and the treatments for cancer can affect survivors' in many ways, and the effects felt by survivors can persist or develop long after diagnosis and treatment.

 

The mission of the Connecticut Challenge is to empower cancer survivors to take control of their health by offering credible information, comprehensive resources and a roadmap for them to live healthier, happier and longer lives.

 

The following list represents many of the conditions a survivor might face; however, it is important to understand that this is not an exhaustive list.  It is also important to understand that this list is not meant to assist in diagnosis of conditions.  Rather, please use this list to learn about many of the conditions associated with cancer and treatment of cancer.  If you are concerned that you are suffering from any of these conditions, be sure to consult your current doctor immediately, and alert your current physician to your cancer diagnosis if she is not already aware of it.

 

 

 

Head
Depression
Anxiety
Fear
Memory problems
Attention disorders
Enamel erosion on teeth
Gum disease
Cataracts
Anger
Isolation feeling
Migraine headaches
Hearing loss
Dry mouth

 

Chest
Lung infection
Cardiovascular disease
Diseases of the artery
Inflammation of heart muscle
Difficulty breathing
Lung function 
Circulation dysfunction
Inflammation due to lymphatic fluid build-up

 

Stomach
Digestion problems 
Bowel infection and leakage
Urinary infection
Gastrointestinal problems

Limbs
Muscle pain
Muscle stiffness
Osteoporosis – bone density loss
Peripheral Neuropathy
Arthritis
Decreased muscle mass
Phantom limb pain

           Midsection (male and female genitals)
Males
Loss of sex drive
Urinary incontinence
Bowel incontinence
Erectile dysfunction
Fertility issues
Chronic diarrhea

Females
Hot Flashes
Loss of sex drive
Urinary incontinence
Bowel incontinence
Fertility issues
Early menopause
Chronic diarrhea

Other
Risk of recurrence or 2nd cancer
Serious infection
Unhealthy weight changes
Change in appetite 
Family dynamic changes
Insurance coverage issues
Financial planning
Relationship with spouse (significant other)
Diabetes
Anemia

 

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Spring/Summer 2012

 

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