Patient Perspective and Personal Journey of Treating a "Rare Cancer".
I was diagnosed with rare anal cancer. As overwhelming as the diagnosis was, it was complicated by limited treatment infrastructure and clinical research, side-effect management, and lack of awareness and support organizations. Anal cancer encompasses so much more than receiving prescribed treatment and focusing on recovery. It requires patients to become experts on their disease, its treatment, and side effects. Even more challenging is finding support and advocacy. My experience has been difficult, complex, and arduous. It is hoped that this article will provide a voice for the many that have been silenced by stigma of anal cancer.
['Longabaugh|Michele|M|']
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents D001005:Anus Neoplasms D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell D055088:Early Detection of Cancer D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice D006801:Humans D011878:Radiotherapy D057545:Social Stigma
Anal cancer Anal cancer awareness Anal cancer support HPV vaccination