La vida con el cáncer

Hay muchos tipos de cáncer y estos se pueden comportar de formas muy variadas. Cuando un paciente es diagnosticado con cáncer, los médicos evalúan y clasifican las características del cáncer. Este proceso se conoce como "estadificación" del cáncer. La estadificación ayuda a los médicos a diseñar planes eficaces de tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Durante el curso de su tratamiento contra el cáncer, es posible que su médico le informe que su cáncer está en "remisión". Estas son muy buenas noticias, pero no es lo mismo que decir que usted está curado. Hay dos tipos de remisión: "parcial" y "completa". Es importante entender plenamente qué significa cada diagnóstico.

Con este video aprenderás lo que significa la Metástasis en relación con la atención contra el cáncer.

Aprende con este video lo que es la inmunoterapia en el cuidado contra el cáncer.

Aprende con este video lo que significa la infusión, en el cuidado contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás qué es un puerto de infusión en el tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás qué significa Biopsia en el tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás lo que es la terapia adyuvante en el tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás lo que son las Células-T en el tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás qué significa etapa en el cuidado contra el cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás sobre la importancia de encontrar y utilizar recursos de apoyo para tus retos emocionales y físicos durante el tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Un oncólogo es un médico especializado en la atención del cáncer. Detecta el cáncer y encuentra formas de tratarlo. Colabora estrechamente con el paciente para elaborar un plan de atención eficaz.

Radiation therapy is often used as a treatment against cancer. IMRT is a form of radiation therapy. Depending on your treatment goals, IMRT may be used to help treat your cancer. This sheet tells you more about IMRT and what to expect.

Intraperitoneal (IP) therapy is a treatment for cancer in the stomach. Learn more detailed information here.

Targeted therapy uses medicines that are aimed at the cancer cell specifically. Because of this, targeted therapy may cause fewer side effects. There are many kinds of targeted therapy medicines. They work differently on different types of cancers.

Brachytherapy is a treatment for cancer. Implants are used that attack the tumor from inside the body. This treatment can help slow the growth of a tumor. It can help ease pain and other symptoms caused by the tumor. Learn more about this treatment and what to expect.

Chemotherapy medicines can be harmful if they touch skin. So you need to make sure caregivers and others close to you are not exposed to body fluids during a treatment and for up to 48 hours afterward.

Detailed information on breastfeeding and mastitis.

Durante su tratamiento contra el cáncer, es posible que usted se pregunte cómo van a resultar las cosas. Su médico puede decirle la forma en que probablemente le afecte su cáncer. También le podrá explicar cómo es posible que responda usted al tratamiento. A esto se le llama "pronóstico" de cáncer. Su pronóstico le ayuda a tomar decisiones acerca de su cuidado.

Como parte de su tratamiento del cáncer, es posible que su médico le muestre las estadísticas de supervivencia. Esta información le puede ayudar a entender la forma en que probablemente progrese su enfermedad. Las estadísticas provienen de las historias clínicas de grandes grupos de pacientes con similares tipos de cáncer.

Descubrir que tiene cáncer de seno puede ser estremecedor. Es posible que se sienta abrumada. Es posible que no esté segura de lo que debe hacer a continuación. Por lo tanto, detengámonos por un momento, respiremos profundamente y veamos el camino que tenemos por delante.

Es duro descubrir que padece cáncer de seno cuando está embarazada. Usted se preocupa por su salud y la salud de su bebé. El tratamiento puede ser complejo. Hablemos sobre el camino que tiene por delante.

Con este video aprenderás cómo compartir tu diagnóstico de cáncer con la familia y amigos, cómo pedir apoyo y el tipo de ayuda que necesitarás durante tu tratamiento.

Este video es la historia de un paciente, Stephanie, quien tuvo cáncer de colon.

Después de ver este video, la persona sabrá lo importante que es estar al centro del tratamiento contra el cáncer y tomar decisiones durante su jornada.

Con este video aprenderás la importancia de los ensayos clínicos y como puedes beneficiarte si participas en alguno.

Después de ver este video, la persona comprenderá la importancia de contar con apoyo durante el diagnóstico y tratamiento del cáncer y más allá.

Este video es la historia de un paciente, Andrew, quien tuvo linfoma.

Este video le va a dar al paciente una buena idea de cómo se formula un plan de tratamiento, quién participa para crearlo y cuáles preguntas debe hacer sobre su plan.

Como parte de su tratamiento contra el cáncer, es posible que usted tenga la opción de participar en un ensayo clínico. Este es un estudio de un fármaco o de un procedimiento, usualmente uno que todavía no ha sido aprobado para el uso generalizado. Los ensayos clínicos ayudan a los médicos a determinar qué tratamientos son eficaces para usted y cuáles no.

Explica la importancia de la donación de tejidos, responde a posibles preocupaciones y anima a los pacientes a que hablen con sus proveedores de cuidados para la salud acerca de la donación de muestras biológicas. © National Cancer Institute

Contiene información sobre las cosas que usted debe saber y tener en cuenta al tomar una decisión de donar sus tejidos para investigación. El tejido puede incluir materiales de su cuerpo tales como piel, cabello, uñas, sangre y orina. © National Cancer Institute

Before starting cancer treatment, you may want to have a second doctor review your diagnosis and treatment choices. Learn why you should get a second a opinion and how to do it.

A helpful overview guide to understanding what cancer is.

Remember, you and your family are part of your healthcare team, and you play a role in your care.

Cancer is when cells in the body change and grow out of control. Your body is made up of tiny building blocks called cells. Normal cells grow when your body needs them, and die when your body does not need them any longer. Cancer is made up of abnormal cells that grow even though your body doesn't need them.

You may need to travel away from home to get the cancer care that's best for you. So it might make sense to find a place to stay nearby while getting treatment. Here's a look at some housing assistance programs that help families like yours find a home away from home during treatment.

Getting a cancer diagnosis is confusing and stressful. Here are some helpful questions to ask your healthcare provider.

Cancer treatment comes with a lot of appointments, tests, and procedures. And that means handling tons of medical records and information. Keeping everything organized is key.

You can use this letter as a model for an efficient, effective appeal letter. You may also need to enlist the help of a legal professional. Make sure your healthcare provider knows any issues you have with insurance. Your provider may be able to help you.

Sometimes, even when you follow treatment plans and have great care, cancer may come back. Know that it's not your fault if you have a cancer recurrence.

Even with insurance, cancer treatment can be expensive. Thankfully, there are resources that can help.

While breast cancer can appear at any time in men, it's often found in those older than age 50.

Cancer can be difficult for your child and family members to grasp. Try to be patient and empathetic with every member of your family.

A rare cancer is one that affects fewer than 40,000 people per year in the U.S. Because these cancers are rare, it might be harder to find information about them.

If you've been diagnosed with cancer, you might be overwhelmed by the amount of questions you have. You could be wondering more about your condition, how to take care of yourself, and many other things.

Learn how cancer treatment may affect your ability to get pregnant and have children. Also learn what choices you have if you want the option of having a child at some point after treatment.

When you are facing cancer treatment, you may have questions about how cancer care may harm your ability to have children. If you are thinking about having a child at some point, you can take steps to protect your reproductive health.

Lymphedema is a buildup of lymph fluid that causes swelling. It can happen if lymph nodes or lymph vessels are removed or damaged.

You don't have to accept pain as a normal part of having cancer of getting cancer treatment. There are many different medicines available to help you. These medicines come in many forms, including pills, patches, and a special pump. Here's what you need to know.

Getting to your treatment appointments is important for your care. If you need help with transportation, there are people willing to help.

The costs of cancer care can be a significant burden for many patients and their families. These tips can help you.

Going to regular healthcare appointments is just one way you can take care of yourself.

One of the most important steps to take after a cancer diagnosis is finding the right place to get treatment.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you're likely feeling overwhelmed or scared. The oncology nurse navigator (ONN) is a compassionate healthcare team membe who can see you through treatments and hospital visits. The ONN will guide you on your path through cancer care.

Now that you are facing treatment for cancer, you may have concerns that you want to share. If you do want to talk, you may not know how to start. These ideas may help.

These skills take practice, and the more you practice them, the more helpful they are. Some people find it helpful to listen to soothing music as they practice.

People with cancer often tap into their spiritual side when battling the illness. This might include prayer, attending religious services, reading passages from a holy book, or simply expressing gratitude and love.

You can find many ways to cope with stress. The goal of each approach, whether it is coping skills or relaxation methods, is to bring you from a place of tension to a place of serenity—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

A cancer diagnosis often brings up extreme emotions. Those feelings are often eased as you learn more about your cancer and treatment, and get support from those around you.

The two major laws that exist to ensure that anyone with a disability or anyone dealing with a health crisis is not discriminated against are the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Many people with cancer benefit from taking a break from their condition from time to time. This "vacation" from cancer can come in many forms.

Hearing that your cancer is incurable is shocking. It can be hard to know how to move forward.

There are many resources for people with cancer. When you know where to go for help, you can focus on healing and feeling better.

When someone with cancer is getting close to the end of their life, you may see some fast changes, or it can be a slow process. Preparing for these changes will help you ensure your loved one is as comfortable as they can be during their final days.

During your cancer treatment, there are strategies you can use to make each day a little bit easier..

Cancer is a life-altering experience. Emotional support plays a big role in coping with the challenges that come with it.

Here's some advice to help you share your cancer news with others when you're ready.

Este video va a mostrarles a las personas la manera de manejar sabores desagradables de comida y bebidas durante el tratamiento del cáncer.

Contiene información sobre los problemas de alimentación que los pacientes podrían tener durante el tratamiento del cáncer y qué hacer para controlarlos. © National Cancer Institute

During cancer treatment, you need enough calories and protein. But the foods you choose can also help you cope with side effects of cancer and its treatment. Here's what you need to know.

When your body gets the nutrients it needs, it can focus on healing, building strength, and boosting your overall well-being.

Eating well helps you keep your strength up during this tough time. It can also help you manage side effects and boost your recovery.

Con este video aprenderás por qué es importante dejar de fumar si tienes cáncer.

Con este video aprenderás cómo manejar tu diabetes durante tu tratamiento contra el cáncer.

Some cancer treatments include taking out your ovaries, or causing them to stop working. This can lead to menopause symptoms that can cause problems with everyday life. But there are things you can do to manage menopause after cancer.

Many people lose or gain weight when they have cancer. Here's a look at why weight changes can happen when you have cancer.

Cancer rehabilitation is a program that supports you when you're dealing with cancer. It's a program for during and after cancer treatment.

Some cancer risk factors have nothing to do with your genes or your habits. For instance, you may increase your risk of cancer by being exposed to substances and chemicals in certain environments. This exposure can happen outside, at work, or in your home.

Cancer and its treatment are hard on the body and spirit. After your recovery, try to look for joy and use your energy in positive ways.

Now that cancer treatment is done, you have the power to make yourself even stronger and healthier. It starts by fueling your body with nutritious foods and getting plenty of movement in your day.

A survivorship care plan is your personal map to life as a cancer survivor. It can give you confidence and peace of mind as you move forward.

Many people have sleep problems after cancer. Sleep problems can last for a long time after cancer and cancer treatment.

Here are some ideas to help you sleep better.

Cancer is a difficult journey, both during and after treatment. And it's not a journey to go through alone. It's a time to reach out for help.

If you're thinking of trying to get pregnant, talk with your healthcare team about what you can expect. Your situation will be unique to you and your cancer journey.

Be patient with yourself as you get used to your life after cancer. It may take time for you to feel a sense of normalcy again.

Contiene información sobre los sentimientos y las preocupaciones que afectan a las personas con cáncer y a sus familias. © National Cancer Institute

Sugerencias para saber qué decir a los amigos, cómo superar la tensión y en dónde encontrar apoyo; también, información sobre el cáncer y sobre los tratamientos de cáncer, para jóvenes que tienen a uno de sus papás con cáncer. © National Cancer Institute

Vea este video para aprender cómo controlar la fatiga causada por los tratamientos contra el cáncer.