A lot of people can experience shock and get triggered upon coming to know about their cancer diagnosis especially when they are not expecting it.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is one of the most widespread conditions worldwide. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that in the United States alone, there were around 1,806,590 new cases in 2020.
Being well-informed is crucial for managing a cancer diagnosis, as it might be a surprise to hear the news. There is a lot of mythology around cancer, and a lot of what people believe to be true is frequently only rumor.
Therefore, gathering as much information as you can from physicians and other trustworthy sources is a crucial first step.
How to get through with cancer diagnosis?
Dany Bell, a specialist advisor on treatment and recovery at Macmillan Cancer Support in the United Kingdom, told Medical News Today: “Being diagnosed with cancer can be a big shock, even if you already suspected you might have it.”
“Cancer is a word that can stir up many fears and emotions,” added Bell, “but making sure you fully understand your diagnosis can help you feel more in control of the situation.”
As the subject of a cancer diagnosis is always a heavily loaded one, so communicating with a doctor might feel challenging. It might be difficult for both the person and the doctor to communicate efficiently.
There is no secret formula for success in these situations, according to Dr. Ann O’Mara, head of palliative care research in the NCI’s Division of Cancer Prevention, who spoke with Medical News Today. She did, however, stress the importance of open communication in order to make sure that patients receive the information they require and that their doctor is aware of how they are handling their diagnosis.
You need to let the doctor know if your interactions with them are making you feel more anxious, the speaker advised.
Moreover, after receiving a cancer diagnosis, symptoms of depression and anxiety are often a natural outcome. A strong support network is also important to be able to count on.
