Prostate cancer is a serious disease. When you find out you have it, you’ll want all the information you need about it.
You might also want to connect with others who’ve been diagnosed with it. There are many websites that offer information about prostate cancer.
Most are run by volunteers who are simply trying to share what they know.
There are many different types of support groups available, but most people choose to participate in face-to-face meetings.
Some support groups are led by professionals who are trained to help others cope with illness.
Other support groups are led by peers who share similar experiences. You should also talk to your doctor about what type of support he/she recommends.
Your doctor should talk with you about developing a survivorship plan. This plan could include:
- A summary of treatments you received.
- A suggested follow-up exam and test schedule.
- A schedule for additional tests you may need in the future.
- A list of potential late or long term side effects from your treatment.
- What to watch for and when to contact your doctor.
There are lots of things to think about when you get cancer. You will likely experience a lot of different emotions.
You might even feel angry, sad, afraid, confused, etc.
You’re going to need some help, and you won’t always feel comfortable talking to your friends and family.
They may not understand what you’re going through so you might want to talk to someone else. Maybe a counselor, therapist, or clergy member?
The Prostate Cancer Foundation has several support groups for men and women with prostate cancer.
There are also several other support groups for people with various illnesses. What other help is available?
Patient Courses
There are a variety of different courses you can utilize if you have had a prostate cancer diagnosis.
For example the 2019 Patient Course: Understanding Cancer Immune Therapy is a useful starting point.
This interactive course provides patients with many resources and basic information about cancer and immunotherapy.
It covers your treatment options and providers as well as cancer and the immune system.
You’ll also learn about immunotherapy types, side effects, and links. It’s easily accessible online.
Prostate Cancer Centers
UCSF Prostate Cancer Centers are leading centers providing complex care to patients with prostate cancers as well as men that are at risk of developing the disease.
Their focus on early diagnosis and prevention has led them to develop the PSMA PET Scan.
This is a new and well tested diagnostic tool for identifying prostate cancer cells in the body and if they have spread to other areas.
They also provide medical advice, nutritional counselling, support groups and other resources.
The team combines highly skilled Surgeons, Oncologists, Radiation, Medical Oncologists and Subspecialists.
They care for patients and also work to translate new findings into more efficient methods of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Online Support Groups
Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) is an organization that helps men and women living with prostate cancer.
PCF has many social media platforms to help men and women with this disease. There are also forums where you can ask questions and get answers.
Health Information
Looking after your health is crucial when you have had a cancer diagnosis. Men must eat a healthy diet to maintain a healthy weight.
Men who are overweight and obese need to lose weight slowly as this is more sustainable.
Men should also include foods rich in fiber and vitamins and minerals and avoid eating junk food or sugary drinks
When you’re being treated for cancer, it’s more important than ever to eat right and take in enough nutrition.
You must eat a well-balanced diet to help your body heal and recover from treatment.
Eating right means eating a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.
This will help to prevent weight gain or loss.
You should also try to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Regular exercise helps prevent heart disease and is an effective treatment for many diseases including cancer.
Variety in the foods you eat helps your body stay healthy. Increase the diversity of foods you eat.
Remember supplements are supplements, but they aren’t meant to replace an intelligent diet.
Supplementation should be used as a means to complement an intelligent diet. Be proactive instead of reactive and you will be giving your body the best chance.
Financial Assistance
The US government provides financial aid for people who need it.
Some of these benefits are provided by the states, while others are offered directly by the federal government.
Some programs are available to older adults, while others may be used by younger people or those with disabilities.
Resources can be found online or in your local library. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Service (CMS) – Centers for Medicare & Medicaid services (CMS).
Social Security Administration (SSA) – Social security administration.
These are some of the national financial assistance programs for men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer.
There are also other local and state resources available:
Angel Foundation provides financial assistance that helps prostate patients with non-medical living expenses, including food, gas, utilities and rent or mortgage payments.
Zero Cancer offers financial support, such as copay assistance and a complete list of free prostate cancer tests in the United States.
You may be denied coverage of recommended treatments if you try to appeal an insurance company’s decision.
You can search for hereditary cancer research studies online. Your insurance company may offer financial assistance.
Cancer Support Community offers local support groups.
Malecare is a men’s cancer survivor support and advocacy non-profit organization run by oncologists, psychologists and social workers that helps men who are diagnosed with cancer.
PHEN is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the African American prostate cancer disparities.
In Summary
Living with cancer is challenging and there is no doubt it is a difficult journey but with the right support and mindset, it is possible to beat cancer and live a long and happy life.