Survivorship from the patients’ perspective

Abstract

For those affected, survivorship means on the one hand a longer survival of their cancer disease, and on the other hand a multitude of challenges. Skills have to be acquired and used in order to cope with the disease. In some cases, very different paths are taken and the self-image of those affected varies greatly. Doctor-patient communication plays an important role, especially as it increasingly takes place at eye level. This is linked to decision-making, in which patients are included as part of the Informed Consent. Cancer self-help is no longer only a provider of information, but is establishing itself as an advocacy group in research and politics. The following problem areas still exist: Long-term survival is not yet sufficiently present among physicians, nurses and psycho-oncologists. Many aftercare programs or check-ups end after 5 years. Within Germany, the health care situation for cancer patients is very heterogeneous. The way back into working life is often difficult and the data availability for research purposes is insufficient.