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| Cancer Care for the Whole Patient
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The Institute of Medicine (IOM) has released a report: Cancer Care for the Whole Patient: Meeting Psychosocial Health Needs. In this report, the IOM states that "A growing body of scientific evidence demonstrates that the psychological and social (psychosocial) problems created or exacerbated by cancer (e.g., depression, other emotional problems, or a lack of information or skills needed to manage illness) can be effectively addressed by a number of services and interventions."
However, the report notes that, "Cancer care today often provides state-of-the-science biomedical treatment, but fails to address the psychological and social (psychosocial) problems associated with the illness." In the report, IOM recommends that "All patients with cancer and their families should expect and receive cancer care that ensures the provision of appropriate psychosocial health services."
The Wellness Community (former name of Cancer Support Community) is listed as a resource in the IOM Report. We are dedicated to meeting the psychosocial needs of people with cancer and their families. While the medical profession treats the physical aspects of cancer, we help people learn techniques to cope with the emotional impact of cancer. As the IOM Report makes clear, our programs are not an alternative to medical treatment, but a valued part of the healthcare continuum for people with cancer and their loved ones.
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| Oncologist Corner: Burton M. Needles, M.D., F.A.C.P.
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At the urging of my late patient, John Childress, I have been involved with The Wellness Community since its inception. The Wellness Community illustrates the profound belief that has guided those of us caring for patients: that it is essential, in treating cancer, to consider and care for the whole person, not just the disease. The Wellness Community has been in the forefront in recognizing that reducing the burden of this disease requires both physical and emotional care. Today, a multitude of support programs are offered by the Wellness Community for patients and their families. For many, The Wellness Community has enabled patients and their families to find connection and kinship, often allowing for a special kind of bond and unique perspective which can complement the doctor-patient relationship. I have always been deeply appreciative of the role that The Wellness Community has played in the lives of my patients.
Sincerely,
Burton M. Needles, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Chairman, Division of Medical Oncology-Hematology
Medical Director, David C. Pratt Cancer Center
St. John’s Mercy Medical Center
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| Oncologist Corner: Gary Ratkin, MD
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"Many of my patients have participated in The Wellness Community's programs over the years, and I have had the pleasure of being on the Professional Advisory Committee. I recently had the opportunity to participate first hand in an art, cooking and medical qigong exercise at TWC and can now recommend it with even greater enthusiasm. The care of cancer patients is much more than chemotherapy, radiation and lab work. A holistic approach to each patient from the time of diagnosis and the start of treatment is crucial to as full a recovery as possible.
The Wellness Community's programs are conducted with professsionalism and positive energy. The enthusiasm is contagious and the wide range of possibilities make TWC an important part of many patients' survivorship toolkit."
Gary A. Ratkin, MD
Medical Director, Missouri Baptist Cancer Center
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| Oncologist Corner: David Linehan, MD
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As a surgeon, when I see a newly diagnosed pancreas cancer patient, I start off by telling him or her that, contrary to what they have read on the internet, this disease can be beat. Next, I explain that the therapy is grueling, involving the combination of a major operation, chemotherapy and radiation, a process that will take at least 9 months. To put this into perspective, I often tell the patient that the treatment regimen is a marathon, not a sprint, to help them understand that this is a lengthy, demanding process that requires courage, strength and endurance. When reflecting about the role of the Cancer Support Community and their partnership in caring for our patients, this marathon metaphor comes back to mind. They are the ones on the sidelines, volunteering at the water stations, massaging the calf of the wounded runner, encouraging the struggling participant up that steep hill or cheering jubilantly at the last mile. They offer sustenance and support, just when it’s needed most, and these efforts comfort and empower our patients and their caregivers to the finish line.
David Linehan, MD
Chief, Section of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic and Gastrointestinal Surgery
Professor of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine
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| Oncologist Corner: Delia Garcia, MD
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I oftentimes think of the Wellness Community as my partner in cancer care: that comfy friend that always has your back. This year marks my 25th year of practice in the St. Louis Community. The Wellness Community has walked the journey with me; I have been a staunch supporter since it was birthed in St. Louis in 1994. Medicine has changed and so have I. My commitment to prevention and wellness has revitalized my passion for helping people and I have walked the talk myself in nutrition, exercise and spirituality, things more powerful than any prescription drug or expensive treatment.
Obesity has replaced tobacco as the leading cause of sickness and death. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, 70% of the diseases we see today are completely preventable with proper nutrition, exercise and stress reduction. According to an article in the New England Journal of Medicine, for every 40 pounds overweight, we increase the risk of heart disease by 360%; diabetes by 2000%; cancer ( breast and colorectal) by 80%; and premature death by 110%. Our forks and televisions are killing us and harming our children.
But what about the patients that already have cancer (or heart disease or diabetes)? It’s never too late to feed our bodies properly, move our joints and reconnect with our God. Perhaps our cancers won’t entirely disappear, but survival can often be prolonged and quality of life improved. A plant-based diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and beans contain thousands of nutrients that bolster our immune systems and repair DNA. Exercise also enhances the immune system and elevates vital neurotransmitters that improve our mood and give us a sense of well being.
Patients no longer need to feel victimized by their cancer and therapy. They have control over many aspects of their health—the most important ones.
Delia Garcia, MD
Radiation Oncologist
St. Louis Cancer & Breast Institute
Certified Health Coach
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