But along with these success stories comes a growing
demand for medical, emotional and psychological support to aid
survivors' long-term recovery, according to a new cancer society report.
"Many cancer survivors have to cope with long-term
physical and psychological effects of their cancer treatment," said lead
researcher Kimberly Miller, an American Cancer Society epidemiologist.
"It's important for the public health community to have a better
understanding of the current and future needs of these survivors."
Although cancer rates are declining for men and
stable for women, survival numbers are up because of improved detection
and treatment, as well as a growing and aging population, the study
authors explained.
According to the report, nearly half of survivors
are 70 and older, and 56 percent were diagnosed within the past 10
years. One-third were diagnosed less than five years ago.
"A lot of people go to their primary care physician
after completing treatment for information, and that's an area where
physicians may need more education and support," Miller said.
Primary doctors can help survivors with cancer
screening and encourage good habits, such as quitting smoking, eating a
healthy diet and exercising. In addition, they can make referrals to
mental health experts if a patient is psychologically distressed. "They
just need the tools to manage care efficiently," Miller said.
While most patients fare well emotionally, fears
of cancer returning or a new cancer developing are common. Family and
friends may find that many cancer survivors have "unmet psychosocial and
medical needs," the study authors explained.
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