Are we winning the war on Cancer?

As a cancer survivor, I'm surprised at the number of times people ask, "Are we winning the war on Cancer?"

Advances made in cancer research and treatments are making a difference, but I still think there's a long way to go. It's not a yes or no question and unfortunately most people immediately assume failure when the answer isn't a definitive "YES." I know we're making great strides in the war on cancer - I'm living proof.

In a recent report by US News & World Report, it seems the "war on cancer" gets mixed reviews. Dr. Samuel Broder wrote an excellent article outlining the progress and pitfalls in: "Health Advice: Why is our Progress against Cancer so slow?" The mortality rates across the board have decreased since the mid-90's, with one exception: rates from women's lung cancers have remained stable. Based on numbers alone, one could surmise we are "winning the war," however progress is still viewed with a sense of pessimism and defeatism.

I learned a very important lesson from this piece:

Perhaps we should reframe the way we view the "war on cancer."

Like Dr. Broder suggests, the discourse is inflammatory and simplistic; it leads us to believe it's a win or lose situation. It's much more complicated than that. Progress is incremental at best, and we are, indeed, making progress. However, the cycle of research, clinical trials, and implementation is much longer in actuality. It take years to find drugs that help address one small part of the cancer crisis. The "war on cancer" is essentially a series of baby steps. Research, trial, treat.... rinse and repeat. Victory is still not in our sights, but we're getting closer.

Years ago, I stopped referring to the search for more cancer treatments as the "War on Cancer." I know from experience there's still much to do. As a cancer activist, I'm hoping the research community uncovers more treatments in the years ahead. Until then, it's up to us to do as much as we can to encourage and support those dealing with the everyday realities of a cancer diagnosis.

The article suggests a few ways we can all help make advances in the cancer community:
- Help expand research initiatives
- Encourage more private businesses to engage in this community
- Encourage cross-discpline research
- individualize and maximize treatments options
- Apply today's knowledge and experiences NOW

and finally:
- Build a better community: focus on community service and outreach

As cancer activists, we can all work to build a better community and expand our reach to all populations dealing with cancer. Let's work on this together!

Do you find that members of your community refer to the "War on Cancer"?
How do you feel about advances in cancer research and treatments? Are we making a difference?
What's the best way to reframe this conversation?
How can you reach out to more people in the cancer community to help reinforce the progress?

Let me know what you think!

Originally posted on www.wegohealth.com

Comments

[breast cancer awareness gear]

I find this post too late!!! I have a friend who is struggling with breast cancer so I really want to do something to raise people's awareness about how terrible this disease is!!! I admire you all, the people who bravely struggle with breast cancer everyday.

[Mike Postorino]

Hi Alicia,

I could not find your email address so this was my only way to contact you. I had a chance to read through your site and found it to be very informational and provide some wonderful cancer resources.

Our organization, Mesothelioma Center, has recently interviewed mesothelioma cancer survivors and published their stories of survival on our site: asbestos.com/mesothelioma/wall-of-hope.php. Their stories provided me with a lot of perspective on what it must be like to be battling this disease. Maybe you can find them rewarding as well.

I was hoping you could help us spread mesothelioma cancer awareness by adding our Wall of Hope Badge to your site. Let’s work together to spread as much cancer awareness as we can!

Best Regards,
Mike Postorino
Mesothelioma Center

[Margaret Cerulo]

I like your approach to the disease and how cumulative efforts can provide support for those dealing with cancer as well as providing and sharing needed information for positive outcomes - this is wonderful work - warmest regards

[click here]

Whatever it is, let us just be positive and hopeful. I believe that a positive mind can help you in fighting your situation.