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By Mayo Clinic staffAfter you receive a diagnosis of endometrial cancer, you may have many questions, fears and concerns. How will the diagnosis affect you, your family, your work and your future? You may worry about tests, treatments, hospital stays and medical bills. Even if a full recovery is likely, you may worry about possible recurrence of your cancer.
Fortunately, many resources are available to you and your family to help answer questions and provide support. The key is to remember that you don't have to face your questions or fears alone. Here are some strategies and resources that may make dealing with endometrial cancer easier:
- Know what to expect. Find out everything you can about your cancer — the stage, your treatment options and their side effects. It's important for you to have honest, open discussions with your cancer care team. The more you know, the more active you can be in your own care. In addition to talking with your doctor, look for information in your local library and on the Internet. Staff of the National Cancer Institute will answer questions from the public. You can reach the cancer institute at 800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237). Or contact the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345).
- Be proactive. Although you may feel tired and discouraged, don't ask others — including your family and your doctor — to make important decisions for you. Take an active role in your treatment. Before starting treatment, you might want a second opinion from a qualified specialist. Many insurance companies will pay for such consultations.
- Maintain a strong support system. Strong relationships may help you cope with treatment and survive your cancer. Although friends and family can be your best allies, they sometimes may have trouble dealing with your illness. If so, the concern and understanding of a formal support group or other cancer survivors can be especially helpful. Ask your doctor to help you get in touch with a support group in your area.
- Detailed guide: Endometrial cancer. American Cancer Society. http://documents.cancer.org/140.00/140.00.pdf. Accessed Sept. 9, 2008.
- Endometrial cancer treatment (PDQ). National Cancer Institute. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/endometrial/patient/allpages/print. Accessed Sept. 16, 2008.
- Bakkum-Gamez JN, et al. Current issues in the management of endometrial cancer. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2008;83(1):97-112.
- Sorosky JI. Endometrial cancer. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2008;111(2, Part 1):436-447.
- Moynihan T (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 21, 2008.