A guide for breast cancer survivorship

October 3, 2023

healthcaretoday, Cancer, Cancer care, cancer deaths, cancer prevention, cancer diagnosis, cancer cures, National Cancer Society Malaysia, NCSM, cancer awareness, fighting cancer, cancer survivor, diet for cancer, cookbook for cancer, cancer caregivers, breast cancer, mammograms, breast lumps, cancer recurrence,

By Chan Wan Thung - Health Education,
Literacy, Promotion and Policy,
National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM)

Caring for a breast cancer patient doesn't end with treatment; it extends beyond to ensure the continued well-being of the patient.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Malaysian women. Thanks to advancements in medical diagnostics and public awareness, breast cancer can now be diagnosed earlier. This has led to prompt cancer treatment and improved survival rates, especially for cases diagnosed in the early stages (Stage 1 and 2 breast cancer), with a 5-year survival rate of 81-88%. Consequently, our society now houses a growing number of breast cancer survivors. This also highlight the importance of improving the understanding on the necessary care required for managing breast cancer patients’ health during their survivorship.

Key aspects of survivorship care
There are several key aspects that should be highlighted to facilitate better self-management during a breast cancer patient’s survivorship, as detailed below.

Breast cancer treatments can result in lasting physical side effects. For instance, surgeries like lumpectomy or mastectomy may alter breast appearance, and lymph node removal may lead to lymphedema in the arm or chest, which is a chronic medical condition characterised by swelling. Hormonal therapies also increase breast cancer survivors’ health risk, such as uterine cancer or bone loss. Radiation therapy may also cause persistent symptoms like skin changes, breathlessness or chest pain.

These lasting side effects can result in physical discomfort, affect self-esteem due to changes in appearance, and cause emotion disturbance due to increased health risk. However, many are not aware that there are available solutions or treatment to address these concerns. If breast cancer patients find these late effects distressing, it is advisable to engage in discussion with healthcare professionals to explore treatment options and seek supportive care to address these issues.

Continuing follow-up care
After treatment, it is essential for breast cancer survivors to continue with follow-up appointments. Breast cancer survivors are advised to consult with their doctors to establish a surveillance plan for their overall health. The monitoring mechanism includes regular physical examinations by healthcare professionals and annual mammograms or other diagnostic tests as recommended by doctors.

Managing the fear of recurrence
As the years go by, these appointments may become less frequent, survivors and caregivers should remain vigilant about any unusual signs on their bodies, such as lumps, persistent pain, or other symptoms that could indicate cancer recurrence. This is because knowing what's normal for one’s body helps in early detection.

Fear of recurrence is common among breast cancer survivors, and they are also facing a higher risk of developing other health issues like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Breast cancer survivors can reduce these risks by adopting healthy lifestyle changes.

Reducing health risks through lifestyle changes
Research has shown that women with high body weight are at an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence. Therefore, it is important for breast cancer survivors to regain a healthy weight after completing treatment through engaging physical activity and maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet. Evidence also suggests that regular physical activity can reduce the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence and enhance overall quality of life.

Dietary considerations for breast cancer survivors
Incorporating a diet rich in fibre, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, is recommended to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Emerging evidence also highlights the potential benefits of soy and soy products in reducing the risk of recurrence. Additionally, a dietary pattern low in saturated fats, such as limiting fried food, fatty cuts of meat, processed meat, butter, and meals prepared with coconut milk, is advisable for breast cancer survivors. These recommendations align with internationally recognised guidelines and are essential not only for cancer prevention, but also for reducing one’s risk of other non-communicable disease.

Psychosocial support during survivorship
During survivorship, many breast cancer survivors encounter anxiety or stress related to the fear of recurrence, significant lifestyle changes after treatment, financial challenges, and stigma. Support from caregivers and family members is crucial in helping survivors cope with these life challenges. Seeking support from peer support groups for cancer survivors or mental health practitioners can also be beneficial in helping survivors cope with these issues.

For additional support, the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) offers a range of psychosocial support services to patients, survivors, and caregivers. These include peer support, cancer support groups, diet consultations, clinical psychology services, counselling, play therapy, and wellness classes. To learn more, you can contact NCSM at 1800-88-100 or email at help@cancer.org.my for more information.

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