The After Cancer Blog

Blood donation after cancer, chemo, and radiotherapy Blood donation is a vital act of solidarity that saves lives and supports medical treatments. For cancer survivors , the desire to give back through blood donation is commendable. However, there are important considerations regarding the eligibility and timing of blood donation after cancer, chemotherapy , and radiotherapy . Cancer survivors' requirements for donating blood The eligibility of cancer survivors to donate blood depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, treatment received, and current health status. Here are some general guidelines to consider: Cancer type and treatment: Certain cancers and treatments may disqualify individuals from donating blood, at least temporarily. For instance, if a cancer survivor has had a hematological malignancy or received a bone marrow transplant, they may be permanently ineligible to donate blood. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can also affect blood cell counts and overall health, necessitating a waiting period before donating blood. Time since treatment: The length of time since completing cancer treatment is an important factor in determining blood donation eligibility. Typically, cancer survivors need to wait at least one year after completing chemotherapy or radiotherapy before being eligible to donate blood. This waiting period allows the body to recover and regain stability. Overall healthsssessment: A thorough assessment of the individual's overall health, including blood counts, will be conducted prior to blood donation. The donor's health must meet specific criteria to ensure the safety of both the donor and the recipient. Cancer survivorship solidarity While some cancer survivors may not be eligible to donate blood due to their cancer history or recent treatments, you can engage in other acts of kindness and advocacy to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Participating in cancer support groups, sharing experiences and insights, raising awareness about cancer prevention and early detection, or volunteering for organizations dedicated to cancer research and patient support are all valuable ways to contribute to the cause. While cancer survivors may have the noble desire to donate blood, eligibility depends on various factors, including cancer type, treatments received, and the time elapsed since completing treatment. Following general guidelines and consulting with healthcare professionals is essential to determine eligibility and ensure the safety of both the donor and recipient.

Donating organs after cancer Organ donation is a selfless act that can save lives and improve the quality of life for many individuals. However, the question of whether cancer survivors can donate organs is often raised. While the ability to donate organs may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type and stage of cancer you have experienced, it is essential to understand the requirements and considerations involved. Organ donation requirements for cancer patients The eligibility of cancer survivors to donate organs is determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, cancer survivors can donate organs if they meet certain criteria: Type and Stage of Cancer: The type and stage of cancer play a crucial role in determining organ donation eligibility. Some cancers, such as certain types of skin cancer or low-risk prostate cancer, may not disqualify a person from becoming an organ donor. However, other cancers with a higher risk of recurrence or metastasis may pose limitations on organ donation. Disease-Free Interval: In many cases, a certain period of remission or disease-free interval is required before a cancer survivor can be considered for organ donation. This interval varies depending on the organ being donated and the specific cancer involved. It ensures that the risk of cancer recurrence is minimal. Medical Evaluation: A comprehensive medical evaluation is conducted to assess the overall health and suitability of a cancer survivor for organ donation. This evaluation includes factors such as the current state of the cancer, any ongoing treatments, and the impact of cancer on the function of the potential donated organ. Individual Transplant Center Policies: Each transplant center may have its own specific guidelines and protocols regarding organ donation from cancer survivors. It is essential to consult with the transplant center and follow their recommendations and requirements. Other ways to contribute Being unable to donate organs does not diminish your ability to contribute positively to society. Many survivors find purpose in raising awareness about cancer, supporting others going through similar experiences, or engaging in other forms of charitable activities. You can consider other ways to contribute to medical research and advancements, such as participating in clinical trials, donating tissues or cells for research purposes, or supporting organizations that work towards improving cancer treatments and outcomes. The eligibility of cancer survivors to donate organs is determined on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as the type and stage of cancer, disease-free interval, and individual transplant center policies. While some survivors may be eligible to donate, others may not meet the requirements due to the nature of their cancer or ongoing treatments. However, there are various other ways for you to contribute to medical advancements, support others, and raise awareness about the disease beyond organ donation.

The meaning of cancer survivorship Determining when a patient can officially consider themselves a cancer survivor is a question that often arises. The term "cancer survivor" encompasses various definitions and perspectives, and it is important to understand the nuances associated with it. When to consider yourself a survivor? The American Cancer Society defines the term “cancer survivor” as any person with a history of cancer, from the time of diagnosis through the remainder of their life. However, the specific definition and self-identification as a survivor may differ from person to person. For some, surviving cancer means being cancer-free after completing treatment. For others, individuals may consider themselves survivors even when living with cancer as a chronic condition, valuing their ability to manage and cope with the ongoing challenges. It is crucial to respect each person's unique perspective and experience. The timing and personal definition of being a cancer survivor are deeply personal decisions that can vary based on individual circumstances, emotions, and outlook on life. Cancer survivors also need care While the term "survivor" may convey strength and triumph, it is essential to recognize that cancer survivors continue to require care and support . The physical, emotional, and psychological effects of cancer and its treatment can persist long after the initial diagnosis. Regular follow-up appointments, monitoring for recurrence, and managing potential long-term side effects are crucial aspects of survivorship care . Cancer survivors require different types of ongoing care and support. Regular follow-up appointments, addressing physical and emotional well-being , and providing access to necessary resources and support systems are integral to ensuring the overall well-being and quality of life for survivors. Defining the term "cancer survivor" is a deeply personal and subjective experience. While there is no fixed timeframe or universally accepted criteria, individuals can consider themselves survivors from the moment they receive a cancer diagnosis or embark on their cancer journey. By recognizing the diverse experiences of cancer survivors and supporting their ongoing needs, we can foster a compassionate and inclusive environment that celebrates their resilience and strength.

The journey through cancer is often filled with challenges, both physical and emotional . Survivors emerge from this battle with newfound strength, resilience, and a desire to mark their victory in meaningful ways. In this article, we'll explore four amazing avenues that cancer patients take to mark their victory and celebrate their lives after cancer. End of Treatments Event: Celebrating Strength Organizing an event is an excellent way to commemorate your journey while gathering close friends and family for support and celebration. The event can be as intimate or elaborate as desired, providing an opportunity to see your friends and family and catch up. By surrounding yourself with loved ones, you’ll create an atmosphere of support. Community Support: Fostering Camaraderie and Connection Engaging with local cancer support groups or online communities can offer a sense of belonging and understanding. Connecting with other survivors allows for sharing experiences, ideas, and stories. Through these interactions, you can find camaraderie, support, and inspiration. Online platforms and forums provide a convenient way to connect with a broader community of survivors who can offer encouragement and guidance. Fundraising Initiatives: Making a Difference Consider giving back and supporting cancer research or other meaningful causes. Hosting a charity event where a portion of the proceeds is donated can make a significant impact. Another option is to do a Fundraising Walk where you encourage people to donate funds as you achieve your walk goal. This way, you can celebrate your own journey while contributing to the larger cause of finding a cure and supporting others in their battle against cancer. Survivor Stories: Inspiring Others You can share your story and experiences through various platforms, such as social media or local publications. By sharing your personal journey , you can inspire others who are currently fighting or recovering from cancer. These stories provide hope, encouragement, and a sense of connection, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their struggles. By organizing an event, engaging with supportive communities, supporting fundraising initiatives, and sharing your survivorship story, you can celebrate your journey and inspire others along the way. These meaningful acts of self-expression not only mark a milestone in the lives of cancer survivors but also contribute to a broader movement of raising awareness, supporting research, and fostering a sense of unity among those affected by cancer.

As a cancer survivor, you may be searching for ways to honor your journey and celebrate life after overcoming the challenges of cancer. A popular way to do this is by getting a tattoo, which can be a powerful symbol of resilience and a reminder of your strength. In this article, we will discuss tattoos for cancer survivors, including the best time to get one, and provide some inspiring ideas for meaningful designs. Can Cancer Survivors Get Tattoos? As a cancer survivor, you may be wondering if getting a tattoo is a good idea. The good news is that you can generally get tattoos, but it's important to consult with your healthcare team first. They'll be able to advise you on whether the tattooing process could interfere with your ongoing treatments or compromise your healing process. Remember that each survivor's situation is unique, so it's important to consider any medical recommendations or restrictions before proceeding. The Best Ideas and Inspirations for Cancer Survivor Tattoos: Symbolic representations: Cancer survivors often choose symbols that hold personal significance. This could include the cancer ribbon or a lotus flower symbolizing rebirth and strength. Quotes and mantras: Inspirational quotes or personal mantras can serve as empowering reminders of your journey. Popular choices include phrases like "Strength Through Struggle" or "Warrior Within." Nature-inspired designs: Many cancer survivors find solace and inspiration in nature. Designs featuring elements such as trees, birds, or butterflies can symbolize growth, freedom, and transformation. Customized designs: By working with a skilled tattoo artist, you can create personalized designs incorporating elements such as your cancer type, treatment dates, or even a portrait of a loved one who supported you throughout your journey. Scar cover-Up tattoos: Some survivors use tattoos to conceal surgical scars or radiation markings . Skilled tattoo artists can create designs that incorporate scars into larger, transformative artworks, helping patients reclaim their bodies. Tattoos can hold deep personal meaning for cancer survivors, symbolizing their strength, resilience , and the journey they have overcome. There are so many meaningful tattoo ideas out there to explore. This form of self-expression is a creative way to celebrate life after cancer and find healing and empowerment.

Maren Higbee is an award-winning novelist and an Emmy-nominated producer and writer. In 2017 her husband was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma tumor. She wrote a fictionalized version of their story in her novel, The Cancer Patient’s Wife . We finally made it back home after my husband Brandon's last round of chemotherapy . No more sleeping on uncomfortable cots or recliners. It was a sunny day, and I couldn't help but feel relieved. We unloaded our bags, walked into the house, and Brandon collapsed on the couch, grateful for the familiar surroundings. "Phew, we made it," I thought to myself. Little did I know, our journey was far from over. The Lingering "What Ifs" As Brandon slept, I found myself lost in a whirlwind of thoughts. Despite finishing chemotherapy, we couldn't shake off the lingering worries. He still looked pale, felt weak, and dealt with the never-ending battle against nausea. And don't get me started on the disappearing hair—those stubborn strands were jumping ship faster than rats on the Titanic! It hit me hard: we still had a long road ahead. Wrestling with Uncertainty The next day, I got up, got dressed, and headed to work for the first time in what felt like ages. Brandon stayed in bed, catching up on much-needed sleep. During the drive, my mind raced with questions. What if the cancer comes back? What if he never fully recovers? Will the brain fog ever lift, or will we be stuck in this haze forever? And what about his energy levels? Will he ever walk the dogs with me again? The "what ifs" churned my stomach, leaving me feeling uneasy. New Challenges, New Normal Months passed, and Brandon's depression lingered as he remained glued to the couch. We found ourselves bickering more than ever before. I pushed for him to get back to normal, not realizing that he needed time to heal mentally and emotionally . He needed to talk to a counselor , start physical therapy, and figure out what he wanted to do for a job. The uncertainty overwhelmed him, while I felt burdened with the weight of responsibility. Embracing Our Own Healing Surprisingly, this challenging journey had a hidden lesson: I needed healing too. I had been shouldering most of the responsibilities for months, and it was time to acknowledge my own emotional needs. Therapy became my lifeline, a space to process my fears, anger, and depression. I learned that seeking help doesn't make you weak; it makes you stronger and better equipped to support your loved one. Finding Our Way, Together No one tells you how hard life can be after chemotherapy. We had fought a common enemy for so long that we forgot the battle doesn't end with treatment. We had to face the reality that life wouldn't go back to how it was before. We had both endured trauma and needed time to heal. As we sought our "new normal," we discovered the importance of being gentle with ourselves and each other. It was a roller coaster ride, but together, we could navigate the twists and turns. The completion of chemotherapy might feel like a finish line, but it's just the beginning of a new chapter. Life after chemo throws curveballs that catch us off guard. Embracing this journey means embracing the uncertainty, supporting our loved ones as they heal physically and emotionally, and caring for ourselves along the way. So buckle up, embrace the ride, and remember that you're not alone. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, finding strength, resilience, and a new appreciation for the healing process. Disclaimer: Maren posted this blog post on her website and gave us permission to repost it.

We compiled a list of 20 books that offer personal accounts, reflections, and insights into the experiences of cancer patients and caregivers, providing different perspectives on the challenges and triumphs associated with the disease. "The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying" by Nina Riggs: Riggs confronts her terminal breast cancer diagnosis with grace and humor, exploring life's beauty and the inevitable reality of mortality. "When Breath Becomes Air" by Paul Kalanithi: A neurosurgeon's poignant memoir reflecting on life, love, and the pursuit of meaning after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. "The Cancer Journals" by Audre Lorde: Lorde's powerful collection of essays and poetry delves into her experiences as a black lesbian feminist dealing with breast cancer and the intersectionality of her identity. "The Middle Place" by Kelly Corrigan: Corrigan's memoir shares her poignant journey as she balances her own breast cancer diagnosis while caring for her aging father with cancer. "Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved" by Kate Bowler: Bowler's memoir challenges the notion that everything happens for a reason as she grapples with her stage IV colon cancer diagnosis and explores faith, mortality, and life's uncertainties. "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion: Didion's raw and honest memoir recounts the year following her husband's death and her daughter's critical illness, delving into the complexities of grief and loss. "Cancer Schmancer" by Fran Drescher: Drescher's memoir chronicles her battle with uterine cancer, providing insights into her journey of empowerment, advocacy, and the importance of early detection. "Bald is Better with Earrings: A Survivor's Guide to Getting Through Breast Cancer" by Andrea Hutton: Hutton shares her personal experiences and practical advice as she navigates the challenges of breast cancer treatment, from diagnosis to recovery. "Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing" by Anita Moorjani: Moorjani's transformative memoir recounts her near-death experience during a coma caused by stage IV lymphoma and the profound insights and healing she gained. "The Unwinding of the Miracle: A Memoir of Life, Death, and Everything That Comes After" by Julie Yip-Williams: Yip-Williams reflects on her experiences as a blind child in Vietnam, her battle with colon cancer, and her journey towards acceptance and embracing the beauty of life. "Cancer Made Me a Shallower Person: A Memoir in Comics" by Miriam Engelberg: Engelberg's graphic memoir humorously captures her experiences as a breast cancer patient, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and absurdities of the disease. "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch: Pausch's inspiring memoir shares his life lessons and reflections after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, encouraging readers to make the most of their time and pursue their dreams. "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult: A thought-provoking novel exploring the ethical and emotional complexities of a family's decision-making as they grapple with their daughter's cancer diagnosis and the implications of organ donation. “A Cancer Patient’s Wife“ by Maren Higbee: When Maggie’s beloved husband, Luke, is diagnosed with cancer, she uses empathy and humor to navigate her fear and sorrow and help him survive. "The Case for Hope" by Jennifer Dickenson: In 2011, Jennifer Dickenson was a busy lawyer when she was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer and given scant hope for survival. But she started looking for hope anyway and discovered the magnificent ways in which we can heal through the mind, body, and spirit. “Hope Triumphs ALL” by Emily Yatsko Sandusky: In this compilation of experiences, reflections, and journal entries, Sandusky shares her 24 years of cancer survivorship from her point of view. She went through leukemia four times and tries to make sense of it all when looking back on her life. “Eye Won” by Jess Van Zeil: As Jess's dreams were beginning to come true, life dealt her a severe blow in the form of Conjunctival Ocular Melanoma. With her sassy blend of honesty and humor, Jess reveals what it takes to thrive in the face of adversity. “The Only One: A Memoir of Hope” by Wendy Moses: At the age of twelve, Wendy Moses had been diagnosed with three life-threatening diseases. Her story is one of fear, dishonesty, and solitude, but most of all of hope. A hope that maybe just one life will be changed by her experiences. “Hi...I'm Chuck!: A miraculous journey surviving stage four cancer with its lessons, growth and healing" by Chuck Keels: In 2015, a team of doctors diagnosed Keeps with stage four cancer and gave him only three months to live. This story documents his miraculous journey, his fight to survive, and a test of his faith. “Faith Like Skin: A journey of learning to display faith through the challenges of cancer, death, & broken relationships” by Hannah Dekker Keels: When faced with life's greatest trials, Hannah responded in a way that forever changed her life, her faith, and how others would view her. This book is an amazing tool for anyone facing challenges that feel like dead-ends.

Emily Sandusky is a 4x Leukemia survivor. She's a former Special Education teacher and author of Hope Triumphs ALL. She's an independent consultant with a holistic health, skin, and beauty company where she helps people discover the powerful connection between mind, body, skin, and soul. Hi! I am Emily Sandusky! I am a 4x Leukemia survivor. Cancer is one loaded word that can be described by a million other words, perspectives, emotions, feelings, frustrations, worries, doubts, confusion, and overwhelm. A word that no one wants to be applied to their life. A word that often leads to, “Why me?”. My cancer story starts when I was first diagnosed with Leukemia in kindergarten when I was 5 years old. I didn’t understand the severity of it all. I knew it meant a lot of “pokes” and throwing up! At the time anti-nausea medicine and ports were not a thing. The perks were I missed a lot of school, got chips from the vending machine, spend time with my mom, and extra attention. After two years I was done with chemo. When I was 11 years old, I relapsed. As a middle schooler, I was embarrassed and self-conscious to lose my hair. I hated people looking at me wondering what was wrong with me and missing sports and friends. I did my best to continue life - going to school, planning chemo around tests, spending time with friends, and playing soccer. Two more years of chemo and into remission. When I was a junior in high school, 17 years old, about to be a starter on the varsity soccer team, l relapsed again. This time severe hip pain led to the discovery that Leukemia was back. It felt like my world was shattering around me. I was playing the best soccer of my life, surrounded by incredible friends, and loving life…and then this! Cancer! I was angry and frustrated and disappointed and couldn’t believe I had to go through this again! I had a stem cell transplant, responded great, and back into remission I went. During my freshman year in college at Northwestern University, 19 years old, I relapsed again. The 4th and final time having Leukemia. Two more years of chemo and anti-body treatment and I was back in remission. This time was different. My body really struggled. I had an infection in my face that quickly spread throughout my body. A reaction to a medication caused severe diarrhea and I lost 30 pounds in a few weeks. I had a neurological reaction to a medication that left me not remembering a whole week of my life. It was scary! Through it all I knew I was going to make it. I knew there was a bigger plan for me. I have been cancer free for 21 years! I deal with some late effects like being infertile and having a type of arthritis called Avascular Necrosis which has led to 4 joint replacements and cataracts. My husband Ryan and I live in Colorado with our 7-year-old identical twin boys! I have a business where I get to educate & empower people to take care of their bodies, feel their best, and create a life they love full of joy, abundance, and health. I would never wish cancer upon anyone, however, I am grateful for the perspective, purpose, and connections it has given me. I wrote a book called Hope Triumphs ALL to give other people the extra courage and strength they need to get through their own challenges and obstacles. Stay tuned for a children’s book that is in the works! We don’t know how many days we are going to get, so live every day with an open heart, love fiercely, and live life to the fullest…it is meant to be enjoyed!

Kathryn White is a Stage 4 Colon Cancer survivor. After completing treatment and getting her health back she dug deep into nutrition and mindfulness to help heal her body, mind, and spirit. She became a certified culinary nutritionist, yoga teacher, and holistic cancer coach. She works with cancer patients, mainly dealing with colorectal cancer, supporting them to make lifestyle changes as they learn to create a life with cancer. If you think the best way or the only way for you to achieve your goals is to do it by yourself then I would like to help you change that thought. Do you believe that reaching out to someone, and a professional somehow indicates that you aren't enough? That it somehow means you're incapable and not smart enough, strong enough, or good enough? Or is this thought coming from a place of overwhelm, fear, or uncertainty? Or, perhaps you don't even know that Cancer Coaching is a possibility… Well, let me assure you, the people who come to cancer coaching are ready to dive into their healing and supporting themselves with and after cancer and work with a professional who will enable them to achieve their goals, to find ease in their thoughts and feelings, and to not have to do all the work on their own. A cancer coach will facilitate your self-discovery to help you manage your cancer diagnosis, identify your needs, and facilitate lifestyle choices to support your health and healing. People who come to cancer coaching are people who want to dig into healing their cancer and feel like they are making a difference in their health. Coaching is powerful in that people come to realize that they were settling for something outside of themselves to make a difference in their life with cancer. They were settling for good when they could have been experiencing great. These clients experience an increased quality in their lives in all areas, from increased nutritional support to enhanced relationships with themselves and others, and from better physical health to increased emotional health. They feel, many for the very first time since their diagnosis, that they are fully and actively a part of their healing process. A common mistake is to think, “I can do this alone.” Why do this alone when you don't have to? A cancer coach will lead you through a process where you can get clear about what you do and do not want in your life. You can uncover what is important to you and what you need to thrive in life with a cancer diagnosis. You can stop settling for a life that you are waiting to live and enjoy until treatments are done and you are told to move forward with your life. You can learn how to create the life you want to be living right now. Instead of leaving your health and happiness just to the medical system, why not invest in yourself in a way that will give you support for your body, mind, and spirit ? Why not be the co-creator of your happiness and the changes that can support you as you live with cancer? Working with a coach on an ongoing basis is an investment you can make in yourself and your quality of life. Another significant mistake is waiting for a "good" time to make a change or go after the things you really want in life. When you are living with cancer you want to start making life changes now. Waiting to make changes is waiting to nurture and care for yourself right now when you need it most. The biggest mistake is telling yourself you can't afford a cancer coach. The truth is that you can't afford not to have one. Coaches are highly in demand these days because coaching has proven itself to be an extremely effective method for facilitating personal growth. If you are still unsure, consider this, it's not enough for you to say you want things to be different. Just wanting something doesn't make it so. You must make a decision and then take purposeful action toward what you want. When you invest in yourself and invest in a coaching program you take the first steps to learning how to thrive in life with cancer. What are you waiting for?

Anne-Marie B. is a 2x breast cancer survivor. Upon her diagnosis, she decided to research everything she could do to prevent recurrence and improve her whole health. She found many studies that showed how nutrition could have an impact on cancer prevention. She’s sharing a summary of her findings in this article. Decreasing the intake of carbohydrates and practicing intermittent fasting - which allows for a temporary installation of ketosis - has been proven to help control the development of cancer, and in particular breast cancer. Intermittent fasting and ketosis Two studies have shown the positive impacts of intermittent fasting on cancer prevention. A study conducted at the San Diego School of Medicine on 2433 women with breast cancer, who were followed for 7 years, confirms that observing an intermittent fast of 13 hours each night reduces the risks of cancer recurrence by nearly one-third. According to a second study on mice, intermittent fasting can be effective in slowing the growth and spread of cancer. Intermittent fasting helps with: reducing insulin production decreasing in tissue inflammation better brain function which, nourished by ketones instead of carbohydrates for a large part of the day, produces new neurons and impacts cancer. strengthening the immune system, thanks to the production of numerous white blood cells, and slowing down the aging process. mobilizing body fats and creating ketosis - a metabolic state that occurs when your body burns fat for energy instead of glucose. How to do intermittent fasting? Many diets focus on what to eat, but intermittent fasting is all about when you eat. With intermittent fasting, you only eat during specific time periods. There are different ways to do intermittent fasting, but they are all based on choosing regular time periods for eating and fasting. In the case of the study mentioned above, it has been proven that 13/11 fasting is beneficial for breast cancer patients. In practice, this means that you can eat for 11 hours of the day and fast for 13 hours. For example, you can decide that your eating period is from 9 am to 8 pm and that your fasting period is from 8 pm to 9 am. If no contraindication is identified, intermittent fasting is an excellent way to reduce the risks of breast cancer. It’s important to check with your doctor before starting intermittent fasting. Foods to include An anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of vegetables protects our immune system with its fibers, minerals, and vitamins. A diet rich in vegetables preserves the intestinal flora, directly involved in certain cancer processes, particularly digestive ones, with the intake of fibers and minerals. A Cretan or Mediterranean diet protects against the risk of cancer and recurrence. They are based on the consumption of many fruits and vegetables including: raw fruits and vegetables legumes whole grains and cereals nuts fish 2 to 3 times a week meat 1 or 2 times a week olive and linseed oils rich in omega 3 Foods to avoid Excess meat, dairy products, sugar, saturated fats, industrial products, and alcohol favor the onset of cancer, by creating a low-grade inflammation of the body, constituting an environment conducive to cancer. Today, studies have shown that excess dairy products are harmful to health. Even cows fed as well as possible have excess saturated fats and pro-inflammatory omega-6s. The main foods to avoid are: Frozen and prepared meals: meals that have a long list of ingredients, or that have preservatives or additives. Sodas and juices: make your own juices at home or add some slides of lemon and cucumber to your water. Processed breakfast cereals: even those that are sugar-free or low-calories. Processed foods done with potatoes: mashed potatoes from flakes, chips. Industrialized oils: avoid sunflower, peanut, grape seed, or corn oil, and use olive and linseed oil instead. Refined carbohydrates: white sugar, white bread, white pasta, starches. Conclusion In order to limit the silent inflammation that creates cancer, eating a Mediterranean diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and limiting refined carbohydrates, has a favorable impact on our health. Even if the culprit of cancer remains unidentified, there are some well-known risk factors for breast cancer that can be modifiable by adopting a healthier lifestyle: overweight, obesity, sedentary lifestyle , alcohol, and deficiencies in vegetables.

Annie Sicard is a breast cancer survivor and a patient advocate. She works closely with cancer patients to support them with after cancer care, such as how to improve cognitive disorders such as chemobrain, chemo fog and brain fog. What are cognitive disorders? Cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy , radiotherapy , oral chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy have been an important part of extending survival in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. 20 to 50% of patients treated for breast cancer express a cognitive complaint. Oncology treatments can lead to cognitive disorders such as brain fog (chemobrain) in some patients. There are a multitude of causes of brain fog. They would be due to the cancer itself, to the impact of the announcement of the disease, to anxiety and fatigue, but also to the neurotoxic action of the chemotherapy, to oxidative stress (which attacks the cells), and to hormonal or immune disorders. The cognitive difficulties encountered by patients have a negative impact on their quality of life, memory, attention, and concentration. These disorders can have an impact when returning to work. In elderly patients, cognitive disorders have repercussions on their autonomy, such as compliance with oral chemotherapy treatments at home. Signs and symptoms Confusion Difficulty concentrating Memory loss Difficulty in performing routine tasks Search for words Risk Factors Cancer itself Radiation therapy of the brain High doses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy Hormone therapy Tiredness Lack of sleep Stress, anxiety Nutritional deficiencies How to reduce the symptoms? Regular physical activity decreases fatigue and improves mood and alertness Brain exercise: memory games, learning new languages Cognitive rehabilitation workshops Relaxation, mindfulness, sophrology, yoga Make “to do” lists Get enough rest and sleep Focus on one thing at a time Will the symptoms of chemobrain ever go away? Symptoms improve within 9 to 12 months after the end of chemotherapy. A smaller proportion (about 10-20%) may experience long-term effects.

Integrative oncology is a comprehensive approach to healthcare that incorporates both conventional and complementary therapies. For cancer patients, integrative medicine can provide many benefits, including improved quality of life, reduced side effects of treatment, and better overall health outcomes. One of the key benefits of integrative oncology for cancer patients is the ability to address the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This can be especially important during cancer treatment, which can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Integrative oncology can include a range of therapies, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation , and nutritional counseling. These therapies can help alleviate symptoms such as pain , fatigue , and nausea, while also improving overall well-being and quality of life. In addition, integrative oncology can help patients manage the side effects of cancer treatment. For example, acupuncture has been shown to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, while massage therapy can help relieve muscle tension and pain. Finally, integrative oncology can help patients take an active role in their own healthcare. By incorporating lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating , patients can help improve their overall health and reduce their risk of cancer recurrence. If you are a cancer patient, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about integrative oncology and whether it might be a good option for you. With the right combination of conventional and complementary therapies, you can improve your quality of life and overall health during and after cancer treatment.