What to Do After Lung Cancer Treatment
* Regular checkups. After treatment for lung cancer, you'll need to see your doctor regularly to check for signs of recurrence. The frequency of your checkups will depend on the stage of your cancer, your treatment plan, and your overall health.
* Survivorship care plan. Your doctor should develop a survivorship care plan for you that outlines the tests and exams you'll need to have, as well as the lifestyle changes you should make to reduce your risk of recurrence.
Lifestyle changes
* Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your overall health. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is important. You should also limit your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.
* Get regular exercise. Exercise can help you improve your cardiovascular health, reduce your risk of obesity, and improve your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
* Quit smoking. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of recurrence. There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including smoking cessation medications, counseling, and support groups.
* Limit your exposure to second-hand smoke. Second-hand smoke can increase your risk of lung cancer and other health problems. Avoid contact with people who are smoking, and ask smokers to smoke outside.
* Protect yourself from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when you're outdoors.
Emotional support
* Talk to your family and friends. Talking about your feelings with loved ones can be helpful in coping with the challenges of cancer survivorship.
* Join a support group. Support groups can provide you with a sense of community and a network of people who understand what you're going through. There are many different support groups available for cancer survivors, including groups that are based on your type of cancer, your treatment, or your age.
* See a therapist. A therapist can help you deal with the emotional challenges of cancer survivorship, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Financial assistance
* Health insurance. If you don't have health insurance, you may be eligible for government-sponsored programs such as Medicare or Medicaid. You can also purchase health insurance through your employer or the health insurance marketplace.
* Financial assistance programs. There are many financial assistance programs available to cancer survivors, including grants, loans, and scholarships. You can find information about these programs through your doctor, your social worker, or the National Cancer Institute.