Cancer treatment: know your options

Earlier this year, Nancy Touhey was snorkeling in the Caribbean with her family - something she never imagined she would be able to do. After getting married in 1992, Touhey was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

"I was 31 years old, and all I knew was I wanted to live - to have children, and watch them grow up, to be there for them and my husband," Touhey said.

By being proactive in her approach to treatment, she has kept her cancer at bay for 13 years while starting a family and maintaining an active lifestyle.

More cancer patients are learning about the importance of taking a proactive approach to their care. By being a partner with their doctors, patients are choosing treatment options that meet their objectives.

"With more choices available to patients, it is increasingly important for doctors and patients to maintain open communication channels in order to find the right treatment for them," said Susan Braun, President and CEO, CURE Media Group.

Braun says patients should discuss the following questions with their doctors:

• Do you understand my treatment goals?

• How do the different options increase chances of survival?

• Are there any potential side effects that can occur from the treatments - and if so, how can they be managed?

• How will the treatment impact my daily life (work, family, etc.)?

• Are there reimbursement programs that can help offset treatment costs?

Touhey and her doctor tried several treatments but remained focused on achieving a balance between an aggressive treatment and minimal side effects to help her maintain an active life. As newer therapies became available, Touhey and her physician adjusted her treatment based on her goals.

In 2003, Touhey's doctor introduced her to a new treatment called Velcade, which seemed to fit her lifestyle. Several months later, Touhey was full of energy and was able to enjoy spending time with her family.

While individual response to Velcade may vary, Touhey is winning the fight against her cancer and is realizing her dreams. "For a cancer patient, hope is when you have options," she said. "And I have been holding onto hope since I was diagnosed in 1992."

Source: Medialink Features
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