Many resources are available that provide cancer
information. The National Cancer Institute, national and
local chapters of the American Cancer Society, healthcare
providers, libraries, and the Internet are great sources of
free information.
The American Cancer Society has a service called the
Cancer AnswerLine that is available Monday through Friday
from 8am to 5pm, at 800-ACS-2345. The AnswerLine can answer
questions about cancer and cancer-related services in your
community. You can also visit their web site at
www.cancer.org.
The National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service
at 800-4-CANCER answers questions and sends information upon
request. You can also visit their web site at
www.cancer.gov.
Cancer support groups such as the National Coalition for
Cancer Survivorship provide information and resources on
support and life after a cancer diagnosis. Call 877-622-7937
or write to National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, 1010
Wayne Avenue, Suite 770, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910.
Your healthcare plan, local hospital, or regional cancer
center are other sources for cancer information. Your
healthcare plan may cover individual and family counseling.
If not, speak to the healthcare plan social worker about
mental health resources within your community.
Group counseling helps those faced with cancer to explore
their feelings. People who have had cancer and who have been
treated, actively participate in these groups. They share
their experiences of going through the process after a
diagnosis of cancer is made. These people have experienced
the psychological factors as well as the treatment factors
for the diagnosis of cancer. Some groups meet only during
the period of hospitalization, while others continue after
the diagnosis is made and treatment is started. Some groups
meet only with the patients, while others include spouses,
family members, and other special people. These groups also
provide an opportunity to exchange treatment tips and hints,
as well as give support and information to help patients,
families, and friends gain some control over their lives.
Faith is a source of strength for many people. Members of
the clergy can provide comfort. Some are trained to minister
to those coping with life-threatening illnesses. Contact the
faith community of your choice. The chaplain of your local
hospital will be able to guide you to clergy who are
experienced in supporting people after a cancer diagnosis is
made.


Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File CNC3509F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.
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