Cancer survivors need follow-up care for years, study reports
9th Nov 2005, 17:37 GMT
A new study reports that most cancer survivors are slipping through the cracks of follow-up care. Cancer survivors remain at risk for new onsets of cancer, and should have regular follow-up visits for years, oncologists say. However, at present there is no formal structure in place to ensure that these visits occur, to set up appointments, or to make sure that patients' primary care providers remain in the loop. Once cancer treatment stops, most cancer victims are still dealing with emotional and physical fallout, including fear, body image, "problems with mobility or memory, nerve damage, sexual dysfunction or infertility, and impaired organ function." Until an organized measure of follow-up for cancer patients is developed nationwide, patients remain their own best advocates. Ask your doctor about regular follow-ups to your cancer treatment, even if the initial work seems to be done. Read Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments
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