Illuminating Insights: Navigating Cancer's Terrain with Care By Us

DEFINITION

Empowering Awareness: Unveiling the Complexities of Cancer

Cancer, a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, can affect any part of the body. While the word itself can evoke fear, understanding cancer's nature and the tools for its management empowers individuals on their journey toward health and healing.

DID YOU KNOW (US and Florida Statistics)

 US Insights:

  • Cancer is a leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for nearly 1 in 4 deaths. In 2018, there were 1.7 million new cases of cancer diagnosed, with the most common types being breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
  • Lung cancer had the highest number of new cases, while breast cancer was the most common among women. Treating cancer is costly, with an estimated total cost of $175 billion in the US in 2020.

🌴 Florida's Reality:

  • According to the Florida Department of Health, there were approximately 117,800 new cases of cancer in Florida in 2020, resulting in an estimated 37,500 deaths. Furthermore, Florida's cancer death rate in 2020 was 197.2 per 100,000 people, slightly higher than the national average of 191.9 per 100,000 people.  The most common types of cancer in Florida are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. The good news is that, in Florida, the cancer death rate has been declining steadily since 2000. In 2000, the cancer death rate was 227.1 per 100,000 people. By 2020, it had dropped by nearly 30%

 

COMMON SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS: Recognizing Signals for Early Action

Cancer symptoms can vary widely, but watch for:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Persistent pain
  • Changes in skin, moles, or growths
  • Persistent coughing or hoarseness
  • Changes in bowel or bladder habits

Diagnosing the Path Ahead: A Comprehensive Approach

  • Medical Assessment: A healthcare professional evaluates symptoms and medical history.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, CT scans help visualize internal structures.
  • Biopsies: Tissue samples examined to determine cancer presence.
  • Blood Tests: Detect specific cancer markers in the blood.

COMMON UNDERLYING ISSUES

Understanding Cancer's Roots: Unraveling Its Triggers

Cancer's origins encompass various factors:

  • Genetics: Family history may increase susceptibility.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Tobacco use, poor diet, sedentary habits.
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to carcinogens.
  • Infections: Some infections can raise cancer risk.

MASTERING MEDICATIONS: Cancer Medication Essentials

Effective cancer treatment often involves:

  • Chemotherapy: Drugs to destroy or slow cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Enhancing the body's immune response.
  • Targeted Therapy: Targeting specific molecules driving cancer growth.

HOW CAN I PREVENT CANCER Shielding Your Health: Steps Toward Cancer Prevention

Prioritize wellness:

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, no smoking.
  • Screenings: Regular screenings for early detection.
  • Sun Protection: Shield from UV rays to prevent skin cancer.
  • Vaccinations: Some vaccines reduce cancer risk.
  • Limit Alcohol: Consume in moderation, if at all.

 

Care By Us Cancer Care and Recovery Services:

At Care By Us, we understand the challenges that individuals and their families face when dealing with cancer. Our non-medical home care agencies offer specialized Cancer Care and Recovery services designed to provide compassionate and comprehensive support to clients throughout their cancer journey. Our services are tailored to complement medical treatments and provide comfort and assistance during this difficult time.

1. Personalized Care Plans: We collaborate with clients, their families, and healthcare providers to develop personalized care plans that address their unique needs, treatment plans, and recovery goals.

2. Medication Management: Our caregivers provide medication reminders and support to ensure clients take their prescribed medications on time and as directed by their healthcare provider.

3. Symptom Management: We assist clients in managing cancer-related symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, pain, and discomfort, helping to improve their overall comfort.

4. Emotional Support: Coping with cancer can be emotionally challenging. Our caregivers offer companionship, active listening, and emotional support to help clients navigate their feelings.

5. Personal Care Assistance: We provide support with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and personal hygiene to enhance comfort and well-being.

6. Nutrition Guidance: We offer nutritional guidance to support clients in maintaining a balanced diet that complements their treatment and aids in recovery.

7. Assistance with Mobility: Our caregivers provide assistance with mobility and exercises as appropriate, helping clients maintain physical strength and flexibility.

8. Transportation Services: For medical appointments, treatment sessions, and follow-up visits, our caregivers offer transportation to ensure clients can access essential healthcare services.

9. Complementary Therapies: We can assist clients in participating in complementary therapies such as relaxation techniques, meditation, and gentle exercise, which can aid in managing stress and promoting relaxation.

10. Family Communication: We facilitate communication between clients and their loved ones, helping to keep family members updated on the client's condition and progress.

11. Comfort Measures: Our caregivers ensure that the client's living environment is comfortable and conducive to their recovery, making necessary adjustments to enhance their well-being.

12. Respite Care for Caregivers: We offer respite care to provide family caregivers with a break, allowing them to rest and recharge while ensuring their loved one is well cared for.

13. Mobility Equipment Assistance: If mobility equipment such as wheelchairs or walkers is needed, we assist in using and maintaining these devices.

14. Rehabilitation Support: For clients undergoing cancer-related surgeries, our caregivers can provide support with post-operative care and rehabilitation exercises.

15. Palliative Care Support: For clients with advanced cancer, we provide palliative care to manage pain, discomfort, and overall well-being in collaboration with the medical team.

16. End-of-Life Care: In cases where clients are receiving hospice or end-of-life care, our caregivers offer compassionate support to ensure their comfort and dignity.

At Care By Us, our priority is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care that supports individuals and their families throughout their cancer journey. Our Cancer Care and Recovery services aim to enhance comfort, promote well-being, and offer a helping hand during this challenging time.