Sarah received a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer in 2020, which turned her world upside down. After the diagnosis, she underwent surgery to remove the tumor, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. A few months later, blood tests revealed that Sarah had entered early menopause at the age of 37. This unexpected development brought severe side effects such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, which impacted her physical comfort and marital relationship.
Sarah struggled with feelings of isolation and wondered why she was going through these challenges. Her marriage suffered as a result of the physical changes she experienced. She found it difficult to meet her husband’s needs, and communication between the two became strained, leading to constant conflicts. At one point, Sarah felt overwhelmed and questioned the purpose of aggressive treatment if it meant struggling with her husband on a daily basis.
Assistant professor Irene Teo highlighted the emotional and physical challenges faced by cancer patients beyond common side effects like fatigue. She emphasized the importance of addressing sexual health issues among cancer survivors, as it is often overlooked in medical settings. Research conducted by Teo and her team revealed that a significant number of women with a history of breast or gynecological cancer reported dissatisfaction with their sex lives.
Cancer treatment can have long-lasting effects on patients, impacting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Many patients experience changes in self-confidence and body image due to treatment-induced physical changes. Despite visible side effects like hair loss, chemotherapy can also cause peripheral neuropathy and fertility issues in some patients. Invasive surgeries to remove body parts can have a lasting impact on a person’s self-image and daily life.
The support and understanding of family and friends play a crucial role in helping cancer patients navigate the challenges of treatment and recovery. Oncologists recommend open communication between family members to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding treatment decisions and expectations for recovery
