Parthen wants to enable you to engage your healthcare team to understand risks of recurrence.

Cancer Journey – Remission phase

Congratulations on completing your initial treatment and entering remission phase! While this is a significant milestone, it’s important to be aware that your cancer journey may not be over yet. Understanding your risk of cancer recurrence and taking steps to monitor your health can help you stay healthy and reduce your risk of a cancer recurrence.

Tools and Resources for Monitoring Your Health and Managing Your Cancer Risk

Understanding Your Risk of Recurrence: While being in remission means there is no evidence of cancer in the post-treatment phase, there is still a risk that the cancer may return. Your healthcare team can help you understand your individual risk of recurrence based on your cancer type and other factors, such as age, gender, life-style and overall health. It’s important to talk to your healthcare team about your risk of recurrence and ask questions about steps you can take to reduce that risk.

Genomics based testing: One tool that may be used to monitor your risk of recurrence is genomics-based measurable residual disease (MRD) testing. MRD testing uses advanced genomic testing technology to detect very small amounts of cancer cells that may reside in the body during post-treatment stage. Detecting any signs of cancer recurrence as early as possible can help inform treatment.

Healthy life style: Shifting to healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve your overall health. Some tips for living a healthy lifestyle include eating a healthy diet, regular exercise for at least 30 minutes, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption and managing stress.

Survivorship care plan: Regular follow-up care is an important part of monitoring your health throughout the post-treatment phase. Your healthcare team will likely schedule regular appointments to monitor your health and check for any signs of cancer recurrence. It’s important to keep these appointments and let your healthcare team know if you experience any symptoms or changes in your health.

Overall, living beyond cancer can also be challenging, as recurrent disease can be aggressive and resistant to certain treatment. Parthen can provide additional guidance on the right tools and resources. By understanding your individual risk of recurrence, gaining knowledge in this space, staying active and healthy, changing your lifestyle, and following your healthcare team’s recommendations for survivorship care planning, you can live a comfortable and rewarding life beyond cancer.