Cancer Recurrence Prevention

A successful treatment of cancer often is followed by concern of a recurrence. For that reason, many survivors might fixate on cancer recurrence prevention by incorporating healthy habits as part of their post-cancer lifestyle. However, aside from a healthy, exercise, and follow-up doctor visits, there is no guaranteed way to keep cancer from recurring. This could be a challenging fact to accept. However, this shouldn’t stop a patient from following a naturally healthy lifestyle. Keeping a positive attitude is just as important after cancer as it was during cancer.

The specialists at the Cancer Center of Southern California know that patients often worry about recurrence, and over the years, they have recommended healthy lifestyle, alternative therapies, and positive attitude to many patients following cancer recovery. Dr. Sant Chawla, director of the Cancer Center, and the oncology specialist Dr. Doris Quon have been very successful with achieving favorable outcomes for many of their patients, it never surprises them when patients ask about recurrence and seek their recommendations.

Advice on Cancer Recurrence Prevention

There is no definitive solution for cancer recurrence prevention. However, many oncologists like Dr. Chawla offer their patients the same suggestions as recommended by the American Cancer Society which include:

Diet

Cancer survivors who have good health can follow the same as one used for cancer prevention. This includes a nutritional plan with:

  • 2½ cups of vegetables and fruits each day
  • Limited portions of red meat ( such as pork, beef, lamb)
  • Few processed meats (luncheon meats and hot dogs)
  • Whole grain foods
  • Limited processed grains and sugars
  • Limited alcohol

Maintaining a healthy weight is best, so individuals who are overweight should take off the extra pounds. Maintain a healthy weight and limit alcohol consumption

Vitamins

Patients should have their doctor take a blood test first to determine if you have a vitamin deficiency then discuss whether supplements are needed. Vitamin and supplement doses that exceed the dietary recommendations could have a negative effect.

Physical Activity

Some physical activity for the body is better than none. Plus, exercise has other benefits which doctors value. It helps to reduce anxiety, improve attitude, help circulation, minimize depression and reduce symptoms including pain, fatigue, and nausea.

Doctors recommend 75 to 150 minutes of activity a week. If your exercise is physically demanding then keep it to 75 minutes and 150 minutes if moderate. If you are new to exercise or haven’t done it in a while, consult with your doctor before beginning a program.

Signs of Recurrence

Dr Chawla with Chemo patientWhile cancer survivors might have to monitor their overall health carefully, it’s not necessary to see the doctor with every sniffle. It’s wise to practice common sense, but there are certain symptoms that require your doctor’s examination. Notify your doctor if any of these conditions develop:

  • Return of symptoms in original tumor site
  • Persistent headaches
  • Recurring cough
  • Chills or fevers
  • Unexplained bleeding or bruising
  • Lumps, swelling, or soft tissue mass
  • Recurrence of symptoms at original tumor site

Keeping your annual check-ups with your doctor is one of the best things you can do and sensible preventive action. By doing this and you have a cancer recurrence, you will catch it at its earliest and most treatable stage.

Cancer Specialists Can Help You

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or suspect a recurrence, contact the knowledgeable specialists at the Cancer Center of Southern California. Our oncologists are some of the best known in the field and internationally recognized as authorities on cancer treatment. Call today at 310-552-9999 to schedule a consultation.

Next, learn about cancer radiotherapy.