National Cancer Institute

When Cancer Returns: Support for People with Cancer National Cancer Institute

Publisher Marketing: Maybe in the back of your mind, you feared that your cancer might return. Now you might be thinking, "How can this be happening to me again? Haven't I been through enough?" You may be feeling shocked, angry, sad, or scared. Many people have these feelings. But you have something now that you didn't have before-experience. You've lived through cancer once. You know a lot about what to expect and hope for. Also remember that treatments may have improved since you had your first cancer. New drugs or methods may help with your treatment or in managing side effects. In fact, cancer is now often thought of as a chronic disease, one which people manage for many years. When Cancer Returns: Support for People with Cancer, the National Institutes of Health Publication 11-2709 offers some general advice as you adjust to the news that your cancer has returned. It covers all aspects of your treatment. It outlines basic information regarding cancer recurrence, including communicating with your health care team as well as your family and friends, managing side effects and coping with emotional psychosocial issues. Above all else, remember that your feelings count. There is no "right" way to cope. Some people need a lot of information. Others like a little at a time. Likewise, some sections in this booklet may address your needs. Others may not.