Caring for Loved Ones with Cancer
From the Set Understanding Cancer
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. More than 10 million people dying each year from this disease, but many cancers can be cured if detected early and treated effectively. In fact, the overall cancer survival rate has improved significantly since 1991 with the hard work of physicians and researchers, improved testing and screening technology, and lifestyle changes by those who are at greatest risk from the disease. Despite these positive trends, many people view cancer as a scary disease and have many misconceptions about the causes, treatments, and outcomes for those with cancer. Caring for Loved Ones With Cancer provides advice for caregivers on how to interact with and help those who have received a cancer diagnosis, including how to help their loved ones stay physically and mentally healthy. It also provides key advice on hospice care, because one reality of a cancer diagnosis is that some patients do not get better. An annotated list of more than 40 cancer organizations, books, websites, and cancer buddy groups is provided for both cancer patients and their caregivers. Understanding Cancer provides a fact-based examination of the various types and causes of cancer, treatment options (including emerging approaches such as gene therapy), methods of reducing the risk of being diagnosed with cancer, and how to care for loved ones with cancer. Stories of those who are battling cancer, as well as their caregivers, are also featured in the series in order to humanize this disease.