Cancer Survivors Face Months- or Years-Long Aftereffects, Doctor Says
Updated
Updated · The Times of India · Jun 20
Cancer Survivors Face Months- or Years-Long Aftereffects, Doctor Says
1 articles · Updated · The Times of India · Jun 20
Summary
Months or even years after treatment ends, cancer survivors can still face fatigue, anxiety, sleep problems, fear of recurrence and other lasting side effects that erode quality of life.
Dr Venkat Ramakrishnan said survivorship needs as much attention as treatment, arguing that clinical milestones such as surgery, chemotherapy and a clear PET scan mark only half the battle.
Breast cancer survivors can carry especially deep emotional scars after mastectomy, he said, describing reconstruction as an essential part of care rather than a cosmetic add-on.
At 35, survivor Chetna Modi said the prospect of losing a breast left her feeling "totally broken," underscoring how cancer can damage identity, confidence and the ability to move on.
If half of cancer survivors fear recurrence, why isn't mental health support a standard part of their post-treatment care?
Is breast reconstruction an essential medical procedure for healing trauma or an optional cosmetic surgery?
18.6 Million and Rising: Addressing the Medical, Psychosocial, and Financial Realities of U.S. Cancer Survivors
Overview
Cancer care in the United States is changing rapidly as the number of survivors grows to 18.6 million by 2025, including 3.6 million prostate cancer survivors. This expanding group is driving a major shift in healthcare policies and the need for new technologies. However, not all survivors benefit equally—significant disparities remain, such as only 39% of Black patients with early-stage rectal cancer receiving surgery compared to 64% of White patients. These challenges highlight the urgent need for more equitable care, better support systems, and innovative solutions to improve the lives of all cancer survivors.