(NAPSA)—Today, thanks to early detection and recent medical advances, women are surviving breast cancer, remaining disease- free and living longer, healthier lives. Yet despite this encouraging news, being diagnosed with breast cancer can still be an overwhelming experience. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with breast cancer, rememberthat no one has to face this disease alone. Here are a few tips about where to turn for breast cancer advice and support: Consult Your Doctor No one is better qualified than your doctor or health care profes- sional to give you advice about Tips About Where To Turn For Breast Cancer Advice Consult your doctor. Talk to your family and friends. e Find a cancer “coach.” Join a support group. Educate yourself byvisiting www.NBCAM.org. @ lenges. The American Cancer Society, the National Breast Cancer Coalition and The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center are among the organiza- preventing, diagnosing and treating breast cancer. In fact, a recent tions that currently provide such cancer “navigators” or “coaches.” Join A Support Group breast cancer found that nearly had breast cancer say that they survey of women who have had three-quarters of breast cancer survivors relied heavily on their doctors or health professionals on their path to recovery. Talk To Your Family And Friends Family and friends can bepillars of emotional strength during your cancer experience. According to the survey of breast cancer survivors, 84 percent of women who have had breast cancer said they depended greatly on family mem- bers on their path to recovery, while more than two-thirds relied heavily on friends. Moreover, a recent study showed that relatives who discuss their family’s history of cancer are also more knowl- edgeable about genetic counseling and testing for breast cancer. Two-thirds of women who have identify a great deal with other women whohavealso hadthedisease. New research has shown that joining a support group can actually improve quality of life for breast cancer survivors: Partici- pants report less pain, distress and anxiety. Today, support groups are the most widely avail- able resource for free psychological support for cancer patients. With a community of about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. today, finding a support group in your area maybe easier than you think. Educate Yourself Finally, empower yourself by learning more about breast cancer. Although October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Find A Cancer “Coach” An increasing numberof advo- breast cancer awarenessis a year- cancer specialists who offer per- the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Web site at www.NBCAMLorg. cacy groups and hospitals provide sonal guidance to patients as they deal with cancer’s manychal- round concern. For more in-depth information on breast cancer, visit
