Stanford physician David Spiegel describes the prescription for a good survivorship as "RSVP"—for recovery, stress management, vigilance and prevention.
1) Recovery. It is important to rest and allow the body to recover from the treatments. "Fatigue can last a year or more after chemotherapy and radiation," Spiegel says. He reminds patients to do what their grandmother might have recommended—eat well, sleep at least eight hours per night and, with more and more evidence showing how exercise programs can help recovery, make physical activity a priority.
2) Stress management. Stress is inevitable, and Spiegel says finding a way to manage it is important. "Good survivorship does not require maintaining a positive attitude no matter what, but rather realistic optimism—hope for the best but prepare for the worst." Support groups and peers who have had similar experiences can be helpful.
3) Vigilance. Patients and their doctors need to create a surveillance plan that screens for the possibility of recurrence, with regular appointments for blood tests, scans and meetings with doctors. "Don't avoid such testing," Spiegel says. "Schedule it well in advance and take advantage of opportunities for early detection."
4) Prevention. This isn't about preventing cancer, but rather, the additional medical problems that may arise. "Cancer treatment has progressed to the point that half of cancer patients live to die of something else," Spiegel notes, pointing out that heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis have the potential to be just as pertinent to a cancer survivor's well-being. Such conditions underscore the need for nutrition and exercise programs that can help patients live longer.
