PsySSA commemorates World Cancer Day with the theme: United By Unique

Today the world commemorates World Cancer Day, a global initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). The theme for this year is “United by Unique”, which calls for patient-centered care. World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cancer and the urgent need to address this pressing public health issue. For South Africans, this day is particularly significant as cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the country. This year, the theme is “Close the Care Gap,” urging communities, governments, and individuals to work together in creating equitable access to cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and care.
Cancer has a tremendous impact not only on those diagnosed with the disease, but their families, friends, colleagues and communities.

Cancer is a growing concern in South Africa. The National Cancer Registry estimates that there are approximately 100,000 new cancer cases reported annually. The most common types of cancer affecting South Africans include breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. The fight against cancer in South Africa hampered by socioeconomic disparities, limited healthcare infrastructure, and a lack of awareness about cancer prevention and early detection contribute to late diagnoses and poor outcomes.

As a professional body for psychologists, PsySSA recognizes the psychological impact of cancer within our communities. Several researchers in South Africa have published psychosocial studies regarding cancer. Below are links to some of this research:

• Purdy and Roomaney explored fertility preservation among female patients with cancer: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/00812463231191437
• Gallagher-Squires and colleagues explored how women with breast cancer coped during their treatment https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0081246320961761
• Odendaal and colleagues explored the experiences of informal caregivers of patients with cervical cancer during Covid-19
  https://www.sajgo.co.za/index.php/sajgo/article/view/399

What Can You Do?
Every South African has a role to play in the fight against cancer. Here are some actionable steps:
1. Get Screened: Regular screening can lead to early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Visit your local clinic or healthcare provider to learn about available screening options.
2. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Reduce your risk by avoiding tobacco and alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active.
3. Support Cancer Initiatives: Donate to or volunteer with local organizations to help fund research and community outreach programs.
4. Spread Awareness: Use your voice to educate friends and family about the importance of early detection and prevention. Encourage others to get screening if they mention any concerns to you.

A cancer diagnosis, while primarily a medical condition, triggers profound psychological responses that reverberate through various aspects of an individual’s life. The initial shock and fear of mortality that accompany a cancer diagnosis can cascade into a range of emotional and psychological effects, any of which persist long after the diagnosis itself.

Shock and Denial: Initially, many individuals experience a sense of disbelief. The reality of having cancer is often too overwhelming to accept immediately, leading to feelings of numbness or detachment. Denial can serve as a defence mechanism, helping individuals temporarily distance themselves from the severity of their condition.

Anxiety and Fear: One of the most immediate and common psychological effects of a cancer diagnosis is anxiety. Fear about the future, including concerns about treatment outcomes, the potential for recurrence, and the impact on family and personal life, can cause significant distress. The uncertainty about the course of the disease often exacerbates these feelings, contributing to a heightened state of worry and fear.

Identity and Body Image: A cancer diagnosis often challenges an individual’s sense of self, especially when treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation affect their physical appearance
or functioning. Changes in body image, such as hair loss, scars, or altered physical abilities, can lead to a loss of self-esteem or self-worth. This can be particularly difficult for those whose identities are closely tied to their physical appearance or sense of vitality.

Depression and Grief: The emotional toll of cancer can lead to depression and grief, not only over the diagnosis itself but also over the anticipated loss of health, lifestyle, and even the prospect of
one’s future. These emotions may be compounded by feelings of isolation, as individuals may find it difficult to relate to others who haven’t had similar experiences.

Impact on Relationships: The ripple effects of a cancer diagnosis extend beyond the individual to family, friends, and partners. Loved ones often experience anxiety, sadness, and helplessness, which can strain relationships. Partners may take on caregiving roles that disrupt the emotional and practical balance of the relationship, leading to feelings of frustration or exhaustion. In some cases,
individuals may feel emotionally disconnected or misunderstood by others, particularly if they have trouble articulating their emotional experiences.

Post-Traumatic Growth: While a cancer diagnosis is undoubtedly distressing, some individuals may also experience positive psychological changes as a result of their journey. This concept, known as post-traumatic growth, refers to the potential for individuals to gain new perspectives on life, develop a greater sense of resilience, or rediscover personal strengths in the wake of their illness. In some cases, the diagnosis may lead to reevaluating personal priorities, fostering deeper connections with others, or a greater appreciation for life.

In summary, a cancer diagnosis doesn’t just impact an individual’s physical health—it sends ripples through their emotional and psychological world. The effects can be complex and multifaceted, with
anxiety, depression, and changes in identity often accompanying the diagnosis. However, with proper psychological support and a strong social network, individuals can navigate these challenges and, in some cases, emerge with a renewed sense of meaning and strength.