Dr Harish E

Jun 23: Life after cancer is a mix of hope, anxiety, and uncertainty. For many survivors, it brings a renewed appreciation of life, but also physical and emotional hurdles. Survivorship is not just about being disease-free; it’s about healing, rebuilding, and rediscovering purpose. While the fear of recurrence often lingers for a few years, strong support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals plays a crucial role in helping survivors navigate this journey with resilience.

Managing Post-Treatment Physical Effects

The physical side effects that follow cancer treatment vary depending on the type of cancer and treatment received. Fatigue, pain, lymphedema (swelling from lymph node removal), and neuropathy (nerve damage) are among the most common issues. Survivors may also face cognitive difficulties such as memory loss and concentration issues. Hormonal changes, sexual dysfunction, gastrointestinal problems, and urinary difficulties are other challenges, all of which can impact quality of life in the early post-treatment phase.

Surgical interventions can leave lasting impacts. Chronic pain, scarring, lymphedema, and organ dysfunction—such as reduced kidney or lung capacity—are not uncommon. Body image concerns, particularly in head and neck or breast cancer cases, add another layer of complexity. However, these effects are not always permanent. Most patients experience significant recovery within six months to two years and can return to a near-normal life.

Chemotherapy has its own share of lingering effects: neuropathy, temporary hair loss, infertility, and rarely, secondary malignancies. Radiation therapy may result in tissue fibrosis, skin changes, cardiopulmonary complications, and hormone imbalances. Despite this, many of these effects improve over time with physiotherapy and guided recovery.

The Power of Physical Activity in Recovery

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to regain strength and improve well-being after cancer treatment. Walking boosts stamina, joint movement, and mood. Stretching, yoga, and light strength training help counteract muscle wasting and stiffness. Survivors of head, neck, and breast surgeries benefit from targeted shoulder, neck, and limb exercises, while breathing exercises like incentive spirometry help lung function, especially for those who had chest treatments or surgery.

Personalized exercise plans, tailored to the survivor’s surgery and side effects, are vital. Starting slow and increasing intensity gradually is key. Regular physical activity not only reduces fatigue and stress but also improves mood, muscle and bone strength, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Support Systems and Regular Check-Ups Matter

The emotional burden of survivorship often surpasses physical challenges. Support from family, colleagues, and society is indispensable. Family members provide emotional care and reduce isolation. Workplaces that welcome survivors back help them regain financial stability and confidence. Community networks, including support groups and religious or spiritual gatherings, play a vital role in restoring hope and resilience.

Cancer survivorship is not just about survival—it’s about living well. Survivors who reclaim their health, like Sonali Bendre and Yuvraj Singh, inspire others with their strength. Their journeys show that with the right support and care, life after cancer is not just possible—it can be meaningful, fulfilling, and powerful.

(Dr Harish E is a consultant of Surgical Oncology, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru)