Current Topic:
Developing practice in cancer rehabilitation
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Abstract
The clinical developments that have occurred in the field of cancer now mean that many people may be cured of their disease or live longer with significant improvements in treatment-related toxicities. However, living with cancer carries with it the burden of both early and, more significantly, late effects from the treatments which can compromise functional ability, quality of life and independence.
The lived experience of an illness such as cancer with all the uncertainty it brings leads not only to changes to a physical body but also to many other changes in a person’s life. Although the rehabilitation needs of people with cancer are often overlooked once the primary treatment has concluded, the reality is that such needs demand attention. If we are committed to addressing the whole person, rehabilitation and supportive care needs must be addressed. While Allied Health Professionals with particular expertise in rehabilitation have a major role in addressing such needs, each member of the healthcare team has an important part to play.
This module has been designed to explore the concept of rehabilitation and supportive care in the context of the person living with their cancer. It will explore in what ways cancer rehabilitation is similar to or different from other common diagnostic groups (e.g. stroke, cardiac rehabilitation). The module will examine the theoretical frameworks, current policy and guidance that inform and govern the processes of rehabilitation in cancer care in the
UK.
It will explore the practicalities involved in recognising and addressing rehabilitation and supportive care issues in clinical practice.
Throughout the module, the reader will be encouraged to explore and develop their understanding of cancer rehabilitation and to develop critical thinking about the current evidence base regarding rehabilitation in cancer care. While this module explores the policy and practice in England, readers will be encouraged to seek and understand comparisons in their own countries.
