Get the facts about BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, which are linked to a higher risk for breast cancer and other cancers
November 2018 : 8 ways to cope with fear during cancer screening
8 ways to cope with fear during the screening process
Cancer screening exams can save your life, but the process can cause a lot of fear and anxiety. Our expert weighs in on how to make it easier.
If you are an adult, you may be thinking about what cancer screening exams are coming due. Whether it’s a mammogram, skin screening, colonoscopy or Pap test, for many of us these potentially life-saving tests come with a series of questions. What will it feel like? Will I be embarrassed? And most significantly, what will they find?
Whatever your fears, it is essential to move past them and get screened. Screening exams can detect cancer early, when it’s easier to treat.
Here are some ideas to help you get through the screening process from Kristin Strength, a social work counselor in MD Anderson’s Department of Social Work.
Think of early detection screenings as similar to other types of upkeep you do in your life. Things like brushing your teeth or flossing.
Think of screening as maintenance.Make a place in your mind for all the little things you do to take care of yourself and put cancer screening with them.
“Think of early detection screenings as similar to other types of upkeep you do in your life,” says Strength. “Things like brushing your teeth or flossing.”
Remember screening reduces the risk you will need more extensive care.If cancer goes unnoticed, the resulting treatment can be more serious. So staying on top of your recommended screenings may actually reduce fear in the long run.
“即使你的医疗团队发现的问题，越早发现它，你有更多的选择，”力量说。“不适的一瞬间，现在可以减少疼痛或不适的数量大得多的未来。”
RELATED: My first mammogram: What I learned
Build a relationship with your medical team.Once you find professionals you like, stick with them. Regular screenings with the same group helps you build a strong relationship with them. This reduces unknowns.
另外，如果您还需要进一步的测试，你会相信你的好帮手。
Learn about the cancer screening exams available to you.A lot of screening exams are common, routine procedures. Knowing what to expect during amammograms,Pap and HPV test,colonoscopy或其他试验以及许多其他人可以减少焦虑。这也可能是有用的，制成约什么样的期待，并询问您的医生或医疗小组的另一位成员解释问题清单。
Use breathing techniques to help you relax.While you are waiting for your screening to start, or even during the screening if possible, usesimple breathing exercisesto help reduce anxiety and keep you calm. Deep breaths or easy mindfulness exercises can help you stay in the moment and stop those “what if?” questions taking over.
设定预期时，结果会来的。Discuss with the medical team how your results will be communicated and when they will come. This sets expectations so you don’t have to wonder. Know that you have done everything you can to take control of the situation.
Plan in advance what to do during the waiting period.Ask yourself what other things need attention in your life, or look for other ways to take care of yourself. Plan to get some exercise or reach out to a trusted friend or loved one you would like to spend time with.
Whatever your results, stay in touch with your medical team,一定要遵循他们的建议have based on your results.
“Recognize the courage and resilience it took for you to take the steps to get screened,” Strength says. You might wish to talk with a social work counselor about available support such as counseling, support groups or other opportunities to support healthy coping.
更多故事从专注于健康
Q and A: HPV vaccine, cancer prevention and older adults
The HPV vaccine has been approved as a cancer prevention tool for adults up to 45. Find out what that means for you.
你需要知道什么生酮饮食
The ketogenic diet – or keto diet – strictly limits carbs and gives dieters a pass on fats. But will it help you lose weight, or reduce your cancer risk?
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is rare, but there are signs that should be discussed with your doctor.