Improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer mean that more people are living longer after a cancer diagnosis, but not everyone is living well.
The consequences of treatment can include physical and psychological effects, such as chronic fatigue, sexual difficulties, mental health problems, pain and urinary or gastrointestinal problems. Certain cancer treatments also increase the risk of other serious long-term conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis or a second primary cancer.
Macmillan Cancer Support estimate that at least 625,000 people in the UK experience long term health conditions caused by cancer or its treatment – to estimate prevalence amongst GP practice populations, this is the equivalent of about 15 patients per 1500 list size.
Who is the toolkit for?
The toolkit provides resources and information for primary care professionals to identify and manage the consequences of cancer treatment, and support patients to live well after a cancer diagnosis. It is designed to be used by any general practice in the UK, and is appropriate for everyone who provides or commissions services for people living with and beyond cancer.
If you are interested in your practice taking part in 2016's National Cancer Diagnosis Audit, please find out more and register here.