Support for Cancer Patients

Living with a serious disease is not easy. People with cancer and those who care about them face many problems and challenges. Coping with these problems is often easier when people have helpful information and support services. Several useful National Cancer Institute booklets, including Taking Time, are available from the Cancer Information Service.

Friends and relatives can be very supportive. Also, it helps many patients to discuss their concerns with others who have cancer. Cancer patients often get together in support groups, where they can share what they have learned about coping with cancer and the effects of treatment. It is important to keep in mind, however, that each person is different. Treatments and ways of dealing with cancer that work for one person may not be right for another--even if they both have the same kind of cancer. It is always a good idea to discuss the advice of friends and family members with the doctor.

Cancer patients may worry about holding their jobs, caring for their families, keeping up with daily activities, or starting new relationships. Concerns about tests, treatments, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Doctors, nurses, social workers, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. They can also discuss outlook (prognosis) and the activity level people may be able to manage. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful to people who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their concerns.

It is natural for a woman to be worried about the effects of uterine cancer and its treatment on her sexuality. She may want to talk with the doctor about possible side effects and whether these side effects are likely to be temporary or permanent. Whatever the outlook, it may be helpful for women and their partners to talk about their feelings and help one another find ways to share intimacy during and after treatment.

Information about programs and local resources for women with uterine cancer and their families is available through the Cancer Information Service.

More About Uterine Cancer 

Previous Features

100+ Subjects