How does a person handle being diagnosed with cancer?

A cancer diagnosis can be shocking for many people because cancer is one of the most common illness. When someone find out that they have cancer many people particularly those who had not anticipated it, can be shocked and triggered.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that cancer ranks among the most common illnesses around the world. In 2020 alone, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that 1,806,590 new cancer cases were reported in the United States.

For managing a cancer diagnosis, being well-informed is essential because the news can come up unexpectedly. Cancer has a lot of mythology, and a lot of what people think is true is often just rumors. Accordingly, the first step is to gather as much information as possible from physicians and other reliable sources.

Even if you have some doubts about it, getting a cancer diagnosis might come as a huge shock, says Dany Bell, a professional advisor on treatment and rehabilitation at Macmillan Cancer Support in the UK, according to Medical News Today.

Bell continued, says, “Cancer is a word that can stir up many fears and emotions, but making sure you fully understand your diagnosis can help you feel more in control of the situation.” Because this topic is always so sensitive, when talking with a doctor about a cancer diagnosis might be challenging. It may be difficult to have an effective communication between the doctor and the patient.

Dr. Ann O’Mara, head of palliative care research in the NCI’s Division of Cancer Prevention, told Medical News Today that there is no secret formula for success in these type of situations. To make sure that patients are getting the information they need and that their doctor knows how they are handling their diagnosis and she on the other hand stressed the importance of open communication.

“If the communication with that doctor is causing you to be more stressed out, you have to communicate that to the doctor,” she stated. Additionally, as a response to a cancer diagnosis, depressive and anxiety symptoms are frequently normal. Additionally, it is essential to be able to rely on a robust support system.