Researchers Look Behind the Scenes at Cancer Caregivers
The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) points out that a significant part of coping with cancer is understanding that cancer and its side effects are not limited to the individual who suffers, but also experienced by all people connected to the individual.
Bethesda, MD (PRWEB) May 25, 2006 -—
The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) points out that a significant part of coping with cancer is understanding that cancer and its side effects are not limited to the individual who suffers, but also experienced by all people connected to the individual. Approximately 44 million Americans provide unpaid care to a family member or friend, sometimes around the clock, according to studies.
Researchers estimate that more than one million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year. In recent years, medical advances and continued research have contributed to shorter hospital stays for patients who suffer from diseases and illness, including cancer. In fact, statistics indicate that 90 percent of cancer care is delivered in outpatient settings, where caregivers bear the major responsibility for this home care. Caregivers are commonly immediate family members, relatives, loved ones or friends of the person with cancer.
These caregivers oftentimes experience some of the same challenges, emotions and physical and mental effects as the person with cancer. People with cancer usually feel vulnerable, isolated and/or bitter. They are weaker and more inclined to pain and stress. Moreover, some cancer survivors may not regain full energy and health levels due to the strain the body and mind underwent.
The demands of providing full-time or part-time care to a friend or loved one, can take a huge emotional toll and contribute to various stress effects on the caregiver, such as a weakening of the immune system and becoming more susceptible to illnesses, depression and sleep deprivation, according to health professionals.
In an effort to help reduce the negative effects and increase quality of life, for both parties, NFCR suggests these tips to help both caregivers and those who accept care:
•Learn to listen. Encourage the person with cancer to talk about how and what they feel and then you express how you have been feeling. Sharing your feelings can be very therapeutic.
•Keep a journal. Both parties can reflect and express themselves privately, if verbal communication is not comfortable yet. A journal can allow overwhelmed minds to relax and promote creativity through writing, drawing or sketching.
•Break up the duties. Incorporate a support group or other loved ones into the caregiving mix to help assist and lessen the load. Experts suggest that integrating this into the routine can be positive and highly beneficial to all parties.
•Set goals. Whether they are short-term or long-term, reasonable goals will give both parties something to look forward to and strive to achieve, possibly making the day, week, month or year better.
About NFCR
Since its founding in 1973, the National Foundation for Cancer Research has spent more than $230 million funding basic science cancer research and education focused on understanding how and why cells become cancerous. This worldwide "laboratory without walls" assembles the intellectual power to achieve one of medicine's greatest goals: a cure for cancer. NFCR is Research for a Cure. For more information, visit www. NFCR. org or call (800) 321-CURE.
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