In cancer care, patient empowerment and person-centred care plays a pivotal role in achieving better outcomes. Empowered patients are more informed, engaged, and proactive in their treatment decisions, enabling a collaborative relationship with healthcare providers.
By providing the person with physical comfort, involvement of family and friends, continuity of care, respect of their preferences, information and education, as well as emotional support we put them at the centre of their cancer journey. They feel more confident navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life.
Empowerment and person-centred care is vital in cancer treatment, and is particularly critical in cancer care, where patients often face life-changing decisions. By providing access to reliable information, clear communication, and opportunities to participate in shared decision-making, we can ensure patients feel supported and capable of making choices that align with their personal values and needs.
By promoting resources like the Targeting Cancer initiative, we aim to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients, enabling them to make informed decisions about their cancer treatment journey.
Understanding Cancer Treatment Options
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and their families. Among the many treatment options available, radiation therapy often stands out as a highly effective and precise method to treat various types of cancer. Misconceptions and a lack of understanding can make this option seem intimidating.
That’s why initiatives like Targeting Cancer exist, to empower patients with clear, compassionate information about radiation therapy and ensure they feel confident in making informed decisions about their treatment.
What is Radiation Therapy, and How Does It Work?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing. The treatment is highly targeted, designed to affect only the cancerous area while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It is used to treat many types of cancer, either as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Patients often ask, “Will radiation therapy hurt? What are the side effects? How long will it take?”. Addressing these questions and providing straightforward explanations is crucial in reducing fear and building trust in the treatment process.
Through our Targeting Cancer initiative, we break down these complexities into accessible, patient-friendly information. Our resources explain the treatment journey step by step, from the initial consultation with a radiation oncologist to the actual therapy sessions and post-treatment care.
Why Radiation Therapy Is Important
Despite being a cornerstone of cancer care, radiation therapy is often under-recognised compared to other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy. During March, a month dedicated to raising awareness about cancers affecting millions of lives, Targeting Cancer seeks to highlight the critical role radiation therapy plays in improving outcomes for patients.
Radiation therapy is a key treatment option for colorectal cancer, especially when combined with surgery to reduce tumour size and eliminate residual cancer cells. Similarly, it is often used in brain cancer to target tumours in areas that are difficult to operate on. By educating patients about the versatility and effectiveness of radiation therapy, we aim to demystify the process and encourage more informed conversations between patients and their healthcare providers.
Empowering Patients with Knowledge
One of the most valuable tools in fighting cancer is knowledge. Patients who understand their treatment options are better equipped to make decisions that align with their needs and values. By providing resources like treatment guides, videos, and real patient stories, Targeting Cancer ensures that patients and their families feel supported throughout their journey.
Radiation therapy can be a life-changing treatment, but many patients remain unaware of its potential benefits. We encourage you to explore the resources on the Targeting Cancer website, where you can learn about the treatment process, what to expect during therapy, and how radiation therapy can fit into a comprehensive care plan.
Empowering patients and ensuring patients are at the centre of their cancer journey is at the heart of everything we do at Targeting Cancer. Whether it’s raising awareness about treatment options or providing tools to help patients navigate their journey, we are committed to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone.
