A new study has brought to light how cancer patients felt in the period between diagnosis and treatment.
Cancer patients have shared how they were unprepared for the wait between diagnosis and treatment.
A quarter of cancer patients revealed that nothing could have prepared them for the waiting period between receiving their diagnosis and starting treatment, new research has found.
The survey of 500 adults diagnosed with cancer within the last five years found they experienced feelings of anxiety (46%), uncertainty (40%) and feeling completely lost (23%).
It also revealed patients typically waited three weeks between diagnosis and treatment, and during that time, 92% didn’t feel they were in control of their life. Many also struggled to maintain control over their emotions, daily routines and ability to make decisions.
The study was funded by Abbott, which has unveiled “The Prehabilitation Method” – a book aiming to guide people diagnosed with cancer on how to spend the time effectively to better prepare for treatment.
Prehabilitation involves preparing for cancer treatment during whatever timeframe is available before it begins, concentrating on diet, physical activity and psychological wellbeing. More than half (56%) of those surveyed had never encountered the term previously.
Imogen Watson, a qualified dietitian and head of UK medical and scientific affairs at the healthcare firm, said: “It’s no surprise that when initially diagnosed with cancer people are anxious, worried and confused. There are no rules on what to do next and often people can feel alone.
“It’s easy to panic and not know what to do next,” she added, “but the time spent between diagnosis and treatment can massively help prepare for what is to come, both mentally and physically.
“We hope to raise awareness of the concept of prehabilitation as it’s a shame people feel lost and worried during that time, which is why we’ve worked alongside experienced professionals to provide a guide.”
The study revealed that in the weeks leading up to treatment, most people engaged in activities such as watching TV, researching their upcoming treatment, and going for walks. Some spent time with friends and took leave from work, with half saying they actively concentrated on their mental health.
In terms of diet, 26% ate whatever they wanted whenever they wanted, but nearly a quarter (23%) were unaware of how significantly their diet could affect their treatment.
A fifth wished they had known how to utilise the time between diagnosis and treatment more effectively, with 32% agreeing they would approach things differently if faced with the same situation again.
Of those surveyed via OnePoll, only 15% were most concerned about their own ability to cope with their diagnosis, while 39% were more worried about their loved ones.
Despite this, half confessed they generally avoided discussing their cancer with those closest to them, although 27% received care from family and friends.
Imogen added: “It’s interesting to hear some would do things differently if they had to go through the prehabilitation period again.+See more details
“Through ‘The Prehabilitation Method’, we hope to support those with cancer, as well as their loved ones, with advice and tips on how to prepare for treatment by effectively planning their nutrition, exercise, and psychological outlook.”
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
