Cancer DiagnosisFor most people receiving a cancer diagnosis is one of the worst things that can happen to them. The word “cancer” has frightening connotations, but the good news is that by means of early detection, cancer is definitely not the death sentence it used to be. Treatment options have increased and their success rate has skyrocketed and survival is a real and increasingly likely prognosis.
It is important to realize that you are not alone: One in six South African men and one in seven South African women will get cancer during their lives.
Educate yourself: Learn as much as possible about your illness and the different medical options available to you. This knowledge will lessen your fears, help you regain control of your emotions, help you make informed decisions, increase your chances of beating cancer. But most importantly knowledge generates hope. Knowledge about the prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer is improving rapidly.
Cancer Treatment
What are the different kinds of cancer treatment?
The three most common types of cancer treatment are surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Treatment is aimed at removing the cancer cells or destroying them in the body with medicines or other agents.
Surgery is still the most obvious response, if the tumour is small and limited to a single area of the body. Surgery can be very successful in treating some kinds of cancer, but it isn't an option for all people. Surgery may not be possible if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body or if the tumor cannot be removed without damaging vital organs, such as the liver or brain.
Radiotherapy uses radiation — in the form of a special kind of x-ray, gamma rays or electrons — to damage or destroy cancer cells so that they can't multiply. There is usually no pain during therapy.
Chemotherapy is the chemical treatment with drugs and hormones that are in the body’s system Many normal cells are also damaged in this process, and it can cause the patient to feel quite ill for a while, but can, and often does, lead to remission of the cancer.
Healthy lifestyleLive life to the full by making healthy lifestyle choices and reducing your chances of getting cancer.
Eating a balanced diet; drinking plenty of water; not smoking; exercising regularly; maintaining a constant body weight; being SunSmart; getting regular medical check-ups including Pap smears (women) and PSA tests (men), are some of the things you can do to ensure your longevity.
Early detection is vital for successful treatment of cancer in both males and females, so if you notice any of the warning signs of cancer consult a medical practitioner without delay.
Treatment Team
Who does what in my treatment program?
Cancer treatment can be very complex. What kind of cancer you have, the stage that it's in, and the treatment program you go through affects what health care professionals you see.Your family physician may oversee your treatment and rehabilitation programs, and can help answer questions you have. Sometimes an oncologist may manage your treatment program, but your family physician may take over once therapy is completed. An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in treating people with cancer.
A surgeon may do the operation to cut out as much cancerous tissue as possible. A pathologist will examine your tissue that is removed during a biopsy or surgery to check for signs of cancer. Radiation oncologists administer radiotherapy. The radiation oncologist is often assisted by diagnostic radiologists, radiotherapy technologists and radiation physicists, who plan treatment and check the radiation dosages to ensure that treatment is as safe as possible.
Oncologists, family physicians and internists often prescribe chemotherapy medicines, hormones and other drugs. Laboratory technicians or nurses may draw your blood for tests.
Nutritionists help evaluate your diet and help you plan your meals during and after treatment.
Physical therapists can help you keep your muscle tone and restore your ability to move around if there are any changes to your body from treatment. Psychologists, psychotherapists and other counselors, such as clergy or social workers, can help you talk through your feelings.
Pharmacists mix the complicated medications and check that you are getting the correct dosages.