Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
If you recently learned that you have cancer, you probably have a lot of questions. You want to learn more about the kind of cancer you have and how it’s treated. The big challenge ahead is, “How do I live my best life now that I have cancer?” We’ll offer you basic information about these topics and links to reliable sources for more details.
Cancer has physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial consequences that start with diagnosis and continue through treatment and beyond. It also includes issues related to follow-up treatment, side effects of treatment, the risk of getting cancer again, and your quality of life. Family members, friends, and caregivers are a critical part of your experience with cancer.
What type of cancer treatment is right for you? Get basic information about some of the most common types of treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy.
Cancer treatments can cause many side effects. Learn about some of the most common, like hair loss, neutropenia, lymphedema, and cancer pain.
Have you been invited to join a clinical trial? Watch a short video that explains what a clinical trial is and how to find one.
Many cancer patients find that yoga, acupuncture, vitamins and herbs, and other types of health practices help them. Watch a short video about complementary and alternative medicine. Let your health care team know if you are using any of these medicines.
If you are treated with chemotherapy, you’re more likely to get an infection. Get tips on how to avoid infections, and other ways to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy.
Cancer treatment can be very expensive, even if you have health insurance. We offer some helpful tips and links to resources that may be able to help you.
What would you do if you had to leave your home in a hurry and you couldn’t return for several days, or if you had to stay at home for several days? Take steps now to get ready for an emergency.