Improvements in cancer diagnosis and advancements in cancer care mean more individuals affected by cancer are living longer. Cancer treatments often come with significant long-lasting side effects. The experience of cancer also extends beyond the individual and can have profound long-term and lasting impacts on loved ones and carers.
Over the last 10 years I have seen the term ‘Cancer Survivor’ become broadly accepted and generally defined as ‘an individual living with or beyond cancer’. With this, the requirement for ongoing support and follow-up care has also gained greater recognition.
Evidence-based ‘Cancer Survivorship’ principles which encompass the broad and varied needs of both the Cancer Survivor and their extended networks, continue to develop and the emphasis on a patient-centred approach is becoming the norm.
In this context I ask: “How have advancements in Cancer Survivorship understanding impacted the lives of Cancer Survivors and those around them?”
From the perspective of a Cancer Survivor and Advocate, I will explore how Cancer Survivorship in the Australian setting can play out.