Where can people with cancer get help and information?
Where can people with cancer get help and information?

Accurate information is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. Some people prefer to take an active role in their treatment. They want and need to know as much as possible about their disease. Others would rather concentrate on the physical and emotional issues of treatment and recovery. There are many sources of help and information for people with cancer and their families. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Your family physician Your family physician can answer many questions about cancer, or refer you to a physician specializing in cancer treatment. Many cancer patients work with a team of physicians and specialists, including a family doctor, oncologist (cancer doctor), radiation oncologist, surgeon, nutritionist, oncology nurse and physical therapist. Each has a role to play in the treatment and recovery process.
  • Your local library Many libraries offer books and periodicals on the subject of cancer and its treatment.
  • The Internet There are hundreds of sites on the Internet offering information on cancer, covering a wide range of educational and institutional resources. We offer links to many of these sites.
  • Support groups There are many local, regional and national support groups for cancer patients and their families. These groups offer a range of services, including individual and group counseling, moral and spiritual support, access to information, financial support and accommodations for patients and their families. Your physician may recommend a group or groups that best fulfill your specific needs.

To learn more:

Find a Cancer Center
Major Internet Cancer Sites
Physicians, Specialists
Professional Organizations and Support Groups
Living with Cancer/Coping
Discussion/Chat Groups
Statistics
Specific Cancers

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Written by: Nancy C. McKeehan, M.S.L.S.
Reviewed by: Jeffrey G. Schultze, M.D.
Last Modified: Wednesday March 11, 2015 2:42 PM