A Brief Summary: The Psychological Impact of Cancer

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can be overwhelming and often has a significant effect on a patient’s mental health. Psychologically, people may be affected by increased feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and fear. These conditions and emotions are often exacerbated by the uncertainty of the disease, the side effects of treatment, and the potential for recurrence.

Anxiety is a common response to cancer diagnosis. Patients may worry about treatment outcomes, their physical health, and the impact of their having the disease on their loved ones. This anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, such as an increased heart rate, sweating, and difficulty sleeping.

Cancer patients also experience depression at greater frequencies. Depression can manifest as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Facing this psychological impact can be challenging, as it can reduce one’s ability to effectively engage in holistic care during the treatment process.

Managing Anxiety, Depression, and Other Mental Health Challenges

Managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with cancer can be overwhelming. Your healthcare team, including Hunter Valley Oncology, are here to assist you on your journey to wellness. Today, we want to address some steps that can be taken to improve your mental health in the midst of cancer treatment.

Seek Support

Having a support network is essential during cancer treatment. Talk to friends, family, and healthcare professionals about how you are feeling. This empathetic listening ear can provide emotional comfort and guidance when navigating the challenges of cancer.

Practice Self-Care

While we do not wish to suggest that practicing self-care will magically make your struggles disappear, taking care of oneself physically and emotionally is important in managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies, can help improve mental well-being.

Maintain Social Connections

Staying connected with family and friends is important in maintaining emotional support during cancer treatment. Social isolation can further feelings of depression and anxiety. When you can, think about having dinner with your friends, attending a trivia night, or watching a show with someone you care about. Maintaining the ‘normal’ aspects of social life is often encouraging.

Stay Informed

Learning about cancer, treatment options and cancer support networks can help reduce anxiety and uncertainty, and help patients regain a sense of control.

Therapy and Psychological Support

Therapy – such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychological treatment – can be helpful in managing anxiety and depression associated with cancer. Therapy can provide a safe space for patients to process their emotions and learn coping strategies.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

There is great benefit in holistic care. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly within the recommendations of your healthcare team.

At Hunter Valley Oncology, we know that cancer can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. Managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues associated with cancer can be difficult, but there are evidence-based steps to improve your quality of life. We call you to seek help and support whenever you need it and remember that you are not alone in the dynamic process of cancer treatment.

The post It’s Not all Physical: Cancer and its Psychological Effects appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

Exercise and Physical Health

Although central to overcoming this disease, cancer treatments often cause numerous physical side effects including fatigue, muscle weakness, and a loss of stamina. Various studies have shown that exercise can assist in combating these impacts by improving cardiovascular health, increasing muscle strength and flexibility, and reducing the risk of obesity. Regular exercise also improves energy levels, reduces pain and inflammation, and improves sleep quality in cancer patients and survivors. We understand that regular exercise presents additional challenges during this time, but we encourage you to be as active as possible, within your capacity to receive benefits not only from your treatment but an evidence-based lifestyle.

Improving your Mental Health

Exercise is also known to improve mental health by stimulating ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving mood, and promoting overall well-being. We understand that experiences with cancer often negatively affect a patient’s mental health, with anxiety, depression, and emotional distress being of high prevalence. Engaging in regular exercise is a great first step towards managing your stress and anxiety during the diagnosis, treatment or aftermath stage.

Taking care of your mental health is vital, and there are numerous resources, lifestyle choices and support systems available. If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out for help. More advice can be found on our recent blog on cancer and mental health.

Reducing the Risk of Cancer Recurrence

Several studies have shown that exercise can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in cancer survivors, specifically for breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Many researchers believe this correlation is a result of improved immune function and reduced inflammation in the body.

Improving your Quality of Life

Improving your quality of life during and post-cancer as you navigate social, bodily and emotional changes is one of our priorities at Hunter Valley Oncology. Exercise can improve quality of life by promoting overall well-being, reducing the side effects of cancer treatments, promoting social connections, and helping patients and survivors regain a sense of control over their health and body.

Getting Started with Exercise

Hunter Valley Oncology recognises that starting an exercise routine can feel overwhelming amongst the host of challenges associated with cancer, and we are here to support you. Talk to your healthcare team to determine which type and intensity of exercise is appropriate for your individual needs. Seeing an accredited exercise physiologist can help you develop an exercise program tailored to your current needs.

Some examples of exercise that may be appropriate for cancer patients and survivors include walking, swimming, yoga, and resistance training. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise over time. Additionally, it is important to listen to your body and rest when needed.

Please contact Hunter Valley Oncology for further exercise advice, and let us support you in your cancer journey.

Maitland: (02) 4931 2311

Newcastle: (02) 4941 8424

The Clark Suites: (02) 4942 2600

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What is Cancer?

The term “cancer” refers to a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. There are many different types of cancer, and these diseases can develop in almost any part of the body. Some of the most common types of cancer include breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer. Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymph system.

Cancer is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genetic mutations can make cells more likely to become cancerous; however, most cancers are caused by a complex mix of genes and exposure to environmental factors, such as tobacco smoke, radiation, and certain chemicals. Some cancers can also be caused by specific infections, including hepatitis and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Why is Cancer Awareness Important?

One of the primary goals of World Cancer Day is to raise awareness of cancer. There are many reasons why this is extremely important for closing the gap of cancer care:

1. Early Detection: Raising cancer awareness is largely aimed at encouraging early detection. When cancer is detected early, it is often more treatable and has a better chance of being cured. Many screening tests for cancer, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, can detect cancer before symptoms appear.
2. Prevention: Cancer awareness campaigns can also focus on educating individuals about ways to reduce their risk of developing cancer. For example, movements such as World Cancer Day can share information surrounding the risks of smoking and the benefits of a healthy diet and regular exercise.
3. Treatment: Access to treatment can be improved by cancer awareness. This is because people are provided with information regarding cancerous symptoms, and are encouraged to seek medical help early, and therefore receive the treatment they need.
4. Support: The profile of cancer-related charities and organisations is often raised through cancer awareness movements. This can help provide much-needed support and funding for people affected by cancer.
5. Reduce Stigma: Cancer awareness can also reduce the stigma associated with cancer, helping individuals and communities to understand that it is not a ‘personal failing’ but a disease that can happen to anyone.

Overall, cancer awareness is essential to help individuals, communities, organisations and governments understand the disease, reduce the risk of developing it, and to improve the chances of survival for those who are diagnosed with it.

What can I do to Live a Healthier Lifestyle and Reduce Cancer Development Risks?

There are several ways to live a healthier lifestyle and reduce your risk of developing cancer:

1. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help to reduce your risk of cancer. Try to limit your intake of processed foods and red meats, and avoid sugary drinks. Click here for more information regarding healthy diets for cancer risk reduction.
2. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help to reduce your risk of cancer by maintaining a healthy weight and boosting your immune system. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise (such as brisk walking) most days of the week. Research indicates a strong correlation between 60 minutes of daily exercise and cancer risk reduction. Click here to learn more about exercise and cancer prevention.
3. Don’t smoke: Smoking is the leading cause of preventable cancer deaths. Quitting smoking can greatly reduce your risk of developing lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases.
4. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast and liver cancer.
5. Protect your skin: UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can increase your risk of skin cancer. Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and limit your exposure to the sun during the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest. For more information about protecting yourself from skin cancer, click here.
6. Get screened: Regular cancer screenings can detect cancer in its early stages, when it’s most treatable. Talk to your doctor about which cancer screenings are appropriate for you based on your age, gender and family history.

It’s important to note that some cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations and cannot be prevented via lifestyle choices, so it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about your family history and if genetic testing is recommended.

Hunter Valley Oncology is Here to Help

At Hunter Valley Oncology, we work to improve the lives of patients affected by cancer, as well as that of their family and carers. It is our mission to provide care, guidance and understanding to patients at every stage of their cancer journey. On February 4^th – and every day of the year – we want to make a stand for cancer awareness, education and treatment. Close the care gap with us, and get involved on World Cancer Day.

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Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Australian women, with more than 20,000 women diagnosed annually in Australia, and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer, following prostate cancer.

The 5-year survival rate for stage 1 breast cancer is 100%, but this impressive survival rate drops once the patient moves into stage 2 (94.6%), stage 3 (80.6%), and stage 4 (32%).

Explaining the stages of breast cancer

The stages of breast cancer refer to how much the cancer has grown, and how far it has spread.

Officially breast cancer starts at stage 0, a precancerous stage, with no invasive cells.

Stage 1 – The tumour is small and localised in the breast. Some cancer may affect the nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 2 – The tumour is growing, but still localised, and may have started to spread to the nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 3 – The cancer is now larger, with involved lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone. It may have also spread to the skin or chest wall.

Stage 4 – The cancer has metastasised, having spread further afield in the body, most commonly the bones, lungs, and the liver.

The stages of breast cancer are based on the size of the tumour, whether the lymph nodes contain cancer cells, and whether the cells have metastasised. Stages are also affected if the cancer cells have hormone receptors, needing oestrogen and progesterone to grow. Whether the cancer cells have the HER2 protein that helps them grow, and the grading of the tumour

What exactly is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of cells lining the breast ducts and/or lobules. The growth of these cells become uncontrolled, and starts to affect the surrounding tissue.

Breast cancer is a term used for a variety of cancers that affect the breasts, including non-invasive, and invasive breast cancers.

How can we be more breast aware?

Early detection of breast cancer offers patients their best chance of survival, and in order to do that, we need a better understanding of individual risk to tailor screening with mammogram, ultrasound (and MRI for selected individuals).

It is important for women to know their bodies well. Look out for changes, and ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you have a lump in your breast?
2. Have your breasts changed their shapes or size?
3. Have you noticed changes to your nipple?
4. Are you experiencing a discharge from your nipple?
5. Have you noticed changes to the skin of the breast?
6. Have you experienced pain in your breasts?

While changes to your breasts can be natural, and nothing to do with cancer, it is best to get a check-up anytime you notice anything different with your breasts.

What types of cancers are there?

Non-invasive breast cancers 

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)

• Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
• Phyllodes breast tumours (typically non-invasive, but can sometimes be invasive)

Invasive breast cancers 

• Invasive ductal carcinoma
• Invasive lobular carcinoma
• Locally advanced breast cancer
• Metastatic breast cancer
• Paget’s disease of the nipple
• Inflammatory breast cancer

There are also various subtypes of breast cancer, including:

• Hormone receptor positive breast cancer
• HER2-positive breast cancer
• Triple negative breast cancer

These subtypes influence the type of treatment that is used, and the prognosis.

Hunter Valley Oncology supports Breast Cancer Awareness month, and we recommend that all women over 45 regularly get their breasts checked for any early warning signs of breast cancer, with physical examination and mammogram/ultrasound. We also strongly recommend that men should see their GP if they suspect anything untoward on their nipples or breast area.

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With a shared vision of providing rural communities with equal access to cancer care that rivals any metro city across the globe, our team at Hunter Valley Oncology is excited to partner with other industry leaders to form the Maitland Integrated Cancer Services, located on-site at Maitland Private Hospital. Maitland Integrated Cancer Services offers a fully integrated suite of cancer care services including day infusion services, radiation therapy provided by Icon Cancer Centre, pathology, imaging, an exceptional intensive care unit, surgery and overnight stays.

Radiation oncology now available in Maitland

The opening of the radiation oncology services from Icon Cancer Centre Maitland is a turning point for the region. For the first time ever, patients of the Hunter Valley will have access to radiation oncology services without having to travel to Newcastle for treatment, saving them more than 80 hours of travel time on average during the course of their radiation therapy treatment.

Services at the Icon Cancer Centre Maitland include:

• The support of a dedicated and experienced team of doctors and medical staff
• World-class technology and treatments for all tumour streams
• Advanced radiation therapy techniques
• No waitlist – consultation and treatment in a timely manner
• Lymphoedema screening for breast cancer patients using a SOZO machine

Icon Maitland is committed to providing affordable care for all patients, with no private health insurance required for radiation therapy and up to 90% of costs covered by Medicare.

Radiation therapy techniques offered by Icon Cancer Centre Maitland

The radiation therapy techniques used at the Icon Cancer Centre Maitland will include:

• The latest technology solutions from Varian, including the TrueBeam® linear accelerator and IDENTIFY™ system
• Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) – A techniques for left-sided breast cancer patients that reduces the potential of radiation on the heart
• External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) – Uses one or more beams to deliver high energy x-rays to a cancerous tumour
• Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) – Delivers high dose radiation to cancerous tumours, while limiting impact on healthy surrounding tissue
• Image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) – Utilises the most advanced imaging equipment and computer software
• Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) – Involves the use of external radiation therapy beams being directed in a series of arcs or angles to allow for greater access to a cancerous tumour
• Stereotactic radiation therapy – An advanced technique used to treat small tumours with well-defined edges in the brain, spine or lung, including tumours that have spread from a primary cancer
• Triggered imaging – A technique unique the TrueBeam linear accelerator, enabling visual verification that a tumour is being accurately and precisely targeted. It is specifically used for prostate cancers
• Surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT) – Tattoo-less radiation therapy alternative that uses advanced camera technology to facilitate 3D tracking of the skin’s surface during set-up treatment
• HyperArc by Varian – Accurately targets multiple tumours while ensuring limited doses of radiation to surrounding healthy brain tissue

Leading cancer care in the Hunter Valley

Our services include the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, evidence-based advice, and personalised care for you and your family. We work with leading allied health, diagnostic, and oncology specialists to give you the holistic care you deserve.

If you have concerns about your cancer, require treatment and care, or simply want to know more about living with cancer, then please do not hesitate to contact the team at Hunter Valley Oncology.

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Unfortunately, they are also rife with misinformation, lies, and cancer myths that is not helpful to anyone.

Before Facebook, Twitter and Instagram took the blame for spreading cancer myths, families and friends sat around the dinner table sharing their ideas about its causes and cures.

Today we hope to bust a few of these myths.

Myth number 1: Getting a biopsy will spread the cancer

Based on flawed studies, the myth that a biopsy may cause your cancer to spread is an oldie. Unfortunately, it’s still believed by many. Recent studies in the US and Europe proved once and for all that having a biopsy will not cause your cancer to spread. Biopsies are a very important part of the diagnostic and treatment process for cancer.

Myth number 2: Eating sugar will make my cancer worse

All cells rely on blood sugar for their energy, but feeding a cancer cell more sugar won’t let it grow faster. Depriving the cell from sugar won’t slow the growth either. If blood sugar is low, the body will work very hard to increase that blood sugar back up so that normal cells can feed off it. The body can turn protein and complex carbohydrates into sugar for this purpose, so it is impossible to truly starve the body of sugar.

That being said, consuming a lot of sugar can cause other health related issues, and those issues may contribute to a higher risk of cancer. So, a healthy diet is best for all. This means eating lots of vegetables, whole grains, some fruit and lean protein. If you are at risk of losing weight, or have already lost weight, then a high calorie and high protein diet may be suggested to help with your weight and muscle mass.

Myth number 3: I have cancer, I will die

Being told you have cancer may possibly be the worst news anyone can hear, but it does not necessarily mean your time is up. Cancer treatments have improved drastically over the years. Doctors are catching it quicker, treating it better, and seeing a greater survival rate than ever before.

At current, over two thirds of all cancer patients survive for five or more years. In many cases, people don’t see their cancer returning once treated.

Myth number 4: Mobile phones cause cancer

Before we even consider the likelihood of mobile phones causing cancer, we need to remind ourselves as to what the main cause of cancer is. Cancer is caused by a change to your DNA within the cells. Once this gene becomes mutated, only then can it become cancerous.

Cell phones only emit low-frequency energy, and not enough to impact or change your genes. Many studies have looked into the effect of mobile phones, and none have found a link between mobile phone use and cancer.

Myth number 5: Power lines can cause cancer

Power lines do emit electric and magnetic energy. However, it’s normally at such a low frequency that it cannot affect your genes.

Many studies have looked at the impact of power lines in suburban areas. To date, no research shows a direct connection between living in a close proximity to power lines and getting cancer.

Myth number 6: Alternative medicine can cure cancer

There is some proof that alternative or complementary treatments, when used in conjunction with traditional methods, can be helpful in the treatment of cancer. However, there is little to no evidence that shows these natural remedies reliably treat cancer on their own.

In fact, some may even pose more harm than good. It’s important to talk to your oncologist about any therapies you are thinking about using during your treatment.

Myth number 7: If cancer is in my family, I will get it too… and vice versa

Less than 10% of cancers are inherited, and an inherited predisposition to cancer in the family does not necessarily mean that everyone in the family will get cancer.

Some cancers develop due to environmental and lifestyle factors. As families tend to live in similar locations and eat similar diets, they may be influenced by the same environmental factors which can lead to developing cancer.

Myth number 8: A lump in your breast is breast cancer

Most lumps found in breasts are benign, but that does not mean you should take them for granted. Any lump has the potential to be cancer, whether it’s hard, smooth, or sinewy.

Some breast cancers won’t even manifest themselves as lumps at all, highlighting the need for regular check-ups and annual mammograms, where required.

Myth number 9: Using hair dye can cause cancer

Most beauty products undergo very stringent tests to ensure they are safe for everyday use. Generally speaking, hair dye and other similar products won’t cause you to develop cancer.

Myth number 10: My oncologist doesn’t want me to try natural products to treat my cancer

Many cancer patients believe their oncologist wouldn’t let them try natural remedies to treat their cancer.

In most cases, your oncologist will be happy that you are exploring ways to treat your cancer. What they will ask is that your natural therapies don’t replace the chemotherapy and other standard treatment plans they have set out for you.

It is important to discuss any natural products you are taking with your doctor, as some may be harmful if taken during chemotherapy or radiation. They may increase the side effects, or even stop the other cancer treatments from working properly. There is some good evidence about the impact and safety of certain complementary therapies on cancer treatments. However, for many of these alternative or complementary treatments there is just no evidence of safety or harm.

If you have any questions or concerns, we recommend that you see you GP as soon as possible and ask for a referral to Hunter Valley Oncology. Our doctors are able to separate fact from fiction and give you the information you need to know.