tions in the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist family
(dolasetron, granisetron, ondansetron, and
palonosetron) are especially effective. The long-
term risks of chemotherapy include increased like-
lihood of developing another cancer, notably
lymphoma or leukemia (especially acute myeloid
leukemia with alkylating agents). Repeated
chemotherapy, such as with chronic cancers or
multiple recurrences, damages and may destroy
the BONE MARROW.
HAIR LOSS DURING CHEMOTHERAPY
The cells of the HAIRfollicles divide rapidly and
thus are highly susceptible to the effects of
chemotherapy. Because of this, people lose their
hair after undergoing chemotherapy. However,
because hair follicle cells are healthy and normal
in their structure and function, most of them are
able to resume growth and division—and hair
production—when chemotherapy ends.See also ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS; CELL STRUCTURE
AND FUNCTION; INVESTIGATIONAL DRUGS; LEUKOCYTE;
PHARMACODYNAMICS; PHARMACOKINETICS; RADIATION
THERAPY; SURGERY FOR CANCER.
coping with cancer Methods for handling the
physical, emotional, financial, and other stresses
of a cancer diagnosis. The diagnosis of cancer is a
life-altering event, no matter the type of cancer
and its prognosis. Few other health conditions
evoke such intense emotions. Though each indi-
vidual responds uniquely, cancer evokes in every-
one a recognition of vulnerability and mortality. It
is important for each individual to be able to
express his or her feelings, fears, anger, worries,
and hopes. Some people want to talk about their
cancer and their feelings, some people deny their
diagnosis or its seriousness, and some people
retreat to introspection.
The time of treatment is often very intense,
with most of the focus in the person’s life shifting
to the treatment and its myriad details. Many peo-
ple find themselves suddenly and completely
immersed in an existence that revolves around
doctors, hospitals, tests, and procedures. There
may be concerns about health insurance coverage
or payment for doctor bills, hospital services,
treatment, and medications. Hospitals have finan-
cial counselors and social workers who can help
work through details such as preauthorizations,
coverage requirements, and private and govern-
ment programs that subsidize or pay for care for
people who lack the resources.
Many people are able to return to full, active
lives after cancer treatment, and their outward
appearance may seem the same as before the diag-
nosis. However, coping with cancer is a lifelong
process for most people. Even when treatment
concludes, residual effects may remain as
reminders of the cancer. People who had surgery
have visible scars and may have deformities, NERVE
damage, BLOODvessel or circulatory disruptions,
LYMPHEDEMA, or alterations such as COLOSTOMYor
reconstruction. As well, there often are ongoing
health-care needs, such as doctor visits, medica-
tions, blood tests, and imaging procedures. Most
people worry, no matter how healthy they are or
how many years go by after treatment, about the
possibility that the cancer could come back.
No one expects a diagnosis of cancer; when it
strikes, it completely disrupts the fabric of every-
day life. The cancer diagnosis also affects family
members, friends, and co-workers. The person
who has cancer must decide who, and how much,
to tell about the cancer. Often, treatment requires
time away from work and the person may not be
able to return to full work activities for quite some
time. People who have young children at home
are likely to need extended help from family and
friends during treatment and recovery. Older peo-
ple who live alone may also need support with
transportation, housekeeping, and cooking.
Despite the all-consuming nature of cancer
diagnosis and treatment, it is important for the
person to remain engaged in activities of life that
bring relaxation, comfort, and joy, such as spend-
ing time with family and friends, participating in
favorite recreations and hobbies, or traveling.
Many people find peace and calm in YOGA, MEDITA-
TION, or prayer. Because there are dimensions to
having cancer that only other people who have
cancer can fully understand, SUPPORT GROUPSpro-
vide a way for the person who has cancer to share
their feelings and experiences.
See also LIFESTYLE AND HEALTH; QUALITY OF LIFE.coping with cancer 377