11 Common Questions Cancer Patients Ask

A cancer diagnosis brings a whirlwind of emotions and a million questions. And while the internet is overflowing with cancer questions and answers, it’s not always clear, relatable, or even accurate. So, we’re cutting through the noise and answering the most common questions about cancer—honestly, simply, and with real insights. 

If you’ve ever found yourself searching for cancer patient FAQs, you’re not alone. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or just someone trying to understand this complex disease, here’s what you need to know.

1. What Are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

Cancer treatment like chemotherapy is a powerful treatment, but let’s not sugarcoat it—it can come with side effects. The most common ones include:

• Fatigue: This isn’t just “feeling tired.” It’s a deep, bone-crushing exhaustion that doesn’t always go away with rest.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Not everyone experiences this, but about 70-80% of cancer patients do. Thankfully, anti-nausea meds have come a long way.
• Hair Loss: This depends on the type of cancer treatment. Some cause full hair loss, while others just thin things out.
• Weakened Immune System: Chemotherapy can lower white blood cell counts, making you more prone to infections.
• Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): Tingling, numbness, or pain in hands and feet can be a lingering side effect.

Pro Tip: Stay ahead of nausea by taking prescribed meds before you feel sick, and if fatigue is hitting hard, listen to your body—rest is medicine, too.

2. How to Manage Pain After Cancer Surgery?

Surgery is often necessary in cancer treatment, but post-op pain can be challenging. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

• Medication: Your doctor will likely prescribe pain meds. Take them as directed, but don’t hesitate to ask about non-opioid options if you're concerned about dependency.
• Physical Therapy: Movement helps in recovery, even if it’s just slow walks.
• Cold & Heat Therapy: Ice packs can help reduce swelling, while heat can ease stiffness.
• Mind-Body Techniques: Meditation, guided imagery, and even acupuncture have shown promising results in managing post-surgical pain.

Quick Fact: Studies show that 40-60% of cancer patients experience some form of pain post-surgery, but proper pain management can drastically improve recovery.

3. Can Cancer Be Prevented?

While not all cancers are preventable, many lifestyle choices can lower your risk of cancer diagnosis:

• No Smoking: Tobacco use is linked to 30% of all cancer deaths.
• Healthy Diet: A plant-based diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains can lower cancer risks.
• Exercise Regularly: Just 30 minutes a day can make a big difference.
• Limit Alcohol: Excessive drinking has been linked to several types of cancers.
• Sun Protection: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and it’s largely preventable with proper SPF use.

Did You Know? The American Cancer Society estimates that at least 42% of cancer cases could be prevented with lifestyle changes. That’s huge!

4. What Role Does Nutrition Play in Cancer Treatment?

Food is fuel, but during cancer treatment, it’s also medicine. Research indicates that an overall healthy dietary pattern can lower cancer risk by 10–20%. Proper cancer nutrition can:

• Boost Energy Levels (which can be drained from chemo and radiation)
• Help Maintain a Healthy Weight (some treatments cause weight loss, others lead to gain)
• Support the Immune System (which takes a hit during treatment)
• Improve Tolerance to Treatment (well-nourished patients often handle side effects better)

Best Foods for Cancer Patients:

• Leafy Greens, Berries, Nuts, and Whole Grains: These foods are packed with antioxidants and fiber, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Lean Proteins (Fish, Chicken, Plant-Based Proteins): Essential for muscle maintenance and immune function, these proteins provide the necessary building blocks for tissue repair.
• Hydration is Key: Adequate fluid intake, through water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks, is vital for bodily functions and helps manage treatment side effects.

What to Avoid? Processed foods, excessive sugar, alcohol, and anything that makes you feel worse.

5. How Does Cancer Affect Mental Health?

Cancer and mental health go hand in hand. Coping with cancer isn’t just a physical battle—it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common among cancer patients and survivors.

How to Cope:

• Talk It Out: Therapy or support groups can be life-changing.
• Stay Active: Exercise releases endorphins, which help combat depression.
• Mindfulness & Meditation: Science-backed ways to manage stress and improve resilience.
• Medication: In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds can be beneficial.

According to the National Cancer Institute, about 1 in 3 cancer patients experience significant mental health struggles. It’s okay to ask for help!

6. What Happens After Treatment?

So, you’ve finished treatment—now what? Cancer survivorship is about monitoring your health, staying on top of check-ups, and adjusting to a “new normal.”

• Follow-Up Care: Regular screenings to catch any recurrence early.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Many survivors focus on healthier habits post-treatment.
• Emotional Healing: Processing what you’ve been through is just as important as physical recovery.

Survivor Insight: Many survivors say they gain a new perspective on life after cancer. It’s a tough road, but resilience is the common thread among those who thrive post-treatment.

7. What Resources Are Available for Cancer Patients?

No one should navigate cancer diagnosis alone. In India, there are many cancer resources available, including financial aid, counselling, and medical support.

• Indian Cancer Society – Offers financial assistance, early detection programs, and rehabilitation support.
• Cancer Patients Aid Association – Provides financial help, counselling, and medical aid for underprivileged patients.
• Tata Memorial Hospital – One of India’s top cancer treatment centres with affordable and free treatment programs.
• National Cancer Grid  – A network of cancer centres ensuring affordable and high-quality treatment across India.
• V Care Foundation – Offers emotional and psychological support for patients and families.
• YouWeCan Foundation – Founded by Yuvraj Singh, this organisation provides awareness programs, screenings, and financial aid.

8. How Does Cancer Affect Relationships and Family?

Coping with cancer can strain relationships as roles shift and emotions run high. Partners may struggle with caregiving duties, and friendships may change as people react differently. Open communication, patience, and seeking professional counselling can help families navigate these challenges together.

9. What Are the Different Types of Cancer Treatments?

Beyond chemotherapy, cancer treatments include:

• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific genes or proteins in cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: Used for hormone-sensitive cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
• Surgery: Removes tumours and affected tissues.

10. What Are the Early Warning Signs of Cancer?

Recognising early warning signs of cancer can lead to timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. While symptoms may vary depending on the type of cancer, some common signs to watch for include:

• Unexplained Weight Loss – Losing more than 5% of body weight in less than six months without changes in diet or exercise may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer.
• Persistent Fatigue – Extreme tiredness lasting over six weeks with no clear cause should be evaluated, as it may be linked to blood cancers like leukaemia or other malignancies.
• Lumps or Unusual Swelling – Any persistent lump or swelling in the breast, neck, groin, or underarms that does not go away should be checked by a doctor.
• Chronic Pain – Long-lasting pain, especially in the bones, back, or joints, without injury or explanation, could signal an underlying cancer.
• Unusual Bleeding or Skin Changes – Persistent coughing with blood, blood in stool or urine, or abnormal moles that change shape, size, or colour should not be ignored.

11. What Are The Top 5 Cancer Diagnosis?

The most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide include breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and stomach cancer. These cancers account for a significant portion of global cancer cases and vary in risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.

1. Breast Cancer – This is the most frequently diagnosed cancer, especially among women. It develops in the breast tissues and can be influenced by genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. Early detection through mammograms improves survival rates.
2. Lung Cancer – Primarily caused by smoking and exposure to harmful pollutants, lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers. It often remains undetected until advanced stages, making early screening crucial for high-risk individuals.
3. Colorectal Cancer – This cancer affects the colon or rectum and is often linked to diet, genetics, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Regular screenings like colonoscopies help in early detection and prevention.
4. Prostate Cancer – Common in older men, prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and may progress slowly. PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests are used for early detection.
5. Stomach Cancer – Often linked to Helicobacter pylori infection, diet, and smoking, stomach cancer can be aggressive. Symptoms like indigestion, weight loss, and bloating may indicate its presence.

Early detection, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes for these cancers.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dealing with cancer diagnosis, cancer prevention, cancer survivorship, or cancer treatment, the most important thing is to take it one step at a time. Keep asking questions, lean on cancer resources, and know that you are not alone.

References

1. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types/chemotherapy/chemotherapy-side-effects.html
2. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer-survivors/patients/side-effects-of-treatment.html
3. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/7-lifestyle-tips-to-reduce-your-cancer-risk/2024/02
4. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/can-cancer-be-prevented-0
5. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chemotherapy/
6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC538507/