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National Cancer Institutes National Cancer Institute

The Nation's Investment in Cancer Research

Reaching all Communities Touched by Cancer

Cancer Survivors

Life is different after cancer—emotionally and physically. Remembering that cancer is a process, and not an event, NCI leads the nation's research in cancer survivorship. The NCI-designated Cancer Center Directors' report identified survivorship as a major theme and recommended increased support to understanding all factors that affect a cancer patient's response to their disease and treatment. NCI researchers report that nearly one in four people diagnosed with cancer has participated in a support group. Furthermore, use of support groups varies considerably by cancer type, and few survivors receive physician referrals to such programs. Studies to show the value of such assistance may help clinicians recognize the importance of support groups for cancer patients.

Bar graph showing estimated number cancer survivors in the United States from 1971 to 2007.


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