| Breast
cancer and its treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy,
radiotherapy and hormonal therapy affect many women physically
and emotionally. Feelings of anxiety, depression, suicide, insomnia
and fear of recurrence and death are commonly reported. Having
breast cancer upsets patients’ lives and puts an emotional
strain on family members.
An
altered body image after treatment affects a patient’s
quality of life and her ability to rehabilitate successfully.
Studies have shown that psycho-emotional support, such as
counselling and in sharing information on cancer, will help
patients cope with the disease and may prolong life span.
Many breast cancer
self-help groups have been established by lay and professional
groups to provide a conducive environment for cancer patients
and caregivers to come together to support each other. Many
studies have shown that counselling and support should be
given upon diagnosis, during treatment and should continue
as long as members need them.
With recent advancement
in treatment methods, breast reconstruction is a popular option.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy often improves patients’
quality of life.
For more
information on support groups, contact:
Singapore Cancer Society (Reach to Recovery programme): 6221
9577
Breast Cancer Foundation helpline : 6356 0123
E-mail: enquiries@bcf.org.sg
Website: www.bcf.org.sg
Wong Wan Hua
Breast Care Nurse
Nursing
Christine Sek
Palliative Care Nurse
Palliative Medicine
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