Breast cancer can have many complications, however, for both survivors and parents, the complexities of parenting become even more pronounced. It's a topic that touches the hearts of many, as there are unique challenges of maintaining a family life while undergoing cancer treatment. We spoke to our expert Dr Sidharth Sahni, Director, Breast Services Fortis Cancer Institutes, who explained the impact of breast cancer on families and strategies for navigating parenthood during treatment.
According to the World Journal of Clinical Oncology, breast cancer stands as the most prevalent cancer among women on a global scale. In 2020, it overtook lung cancer to become the primary contributor to the worldwide incidence of cancer, with approximately 2.3 million new cases, constituting 11.7% of all cancer diagnoses.
The Impact on Family
As we all know breast cancer affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their entire family, especially when there are children involved. Dr Sahni said, “Parents facing breast cancer must learn to strike a balance between the demands of treatment and the needs of their children. These challenges range from explaining their condition to young children to maintaining a sense of normalcy at home.”
The Importance of Personalised Treatment
Breast cancer treatment, much like parenting, is not one-size-fits-all. Dr Sahni added, “There are various types and stages of breast cancer, and each patient's situation is unique. This is why the personalised approach to treatment is so crucial. Tailoring the treatment plan to the individual patient's needs takes into consideration their specific diagnosis, age, overall health, and, importantly, their role as a parent.”
Also Read: Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment: Expert Explains Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy
Tailoring Treatment to Parenthood
Dr Sahni highlighted, “The personalised approach to breast cancer treatment typically involves a combination of therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The key is to design a treatment plan that is not only effective against the cancer but also aligns with the patient's lifestyle, responsibilities, and goals, particularly if they are parents.”
Considerations Based on Cancer Stage and Patient Age
The type and stage of breast cancer significantly impact the treatment approach. Dr Sahni said, “Early-stage breast cancer may require less aggressive treatment, allowing parents to maintain a relatively normal routine.”
On the other hand, more advanced stages may necessitate more intensive therapies, which can affect a parent's energy levels and time commitments. He added, “A patient's age and overall health also play a crucial role in determining the most suitable treatment plan. Younger patients may need to consider the long-term effects of treatment on their fertility, while older patients may need to focus on maintaining their overall health throughout the process.”
The Role of Support Systems
“I always feel that understanding the dynamics of a patient's family is vital. Some parents may have a strong support system in place, allowing them to delegate childcare responsibilities when needed”, said Dr Sahni.
He added, “Others may need more comprehensive support, such as counselling for children to help them understand the diagnosis and treatment process.”
Also Read: Study Finds Most Cases Of Breast Cancer In Women Under 40: Expert Lists Facts About Breast Cancer
Strategies for Navigating Parenthood During Treatment
Parenthood doesn't stop when a breast cancer diagnosis is received. The ability to maintain some sense of normalcy for children during this challenging time is paramount. Here are a few strategies shared by Dr Sahni that can help parents navigate parenthood while undergoing treatment:
- Honest, age-appropriate conversations with children about breast cancer are essential. Providing reassurance and answering their questions can alleviate anxiety and uncertainty.
- Accept help from friends and family when offered. Support can come in many forms, from meal deliveries to playdates for the kids.
- Discuss the long-term impact of treatment with healthcare providers. Fertility preservation and planning for future family dynamics can provide parents with a sense of control and hope.
Bottomline
Dr Sahni concluded, “Breast cancer and parenthood may seem like an incongruent mix, but with personalised treatment plans and a supportive network, it's possible to navigate both successfully. No two breast cancer journeys are the same, and each parent's experience is unique. By focusing on individual needs and understanding the challenges specific to parenthood, we can offer hope and support to those facing this challenging intersection of life's journey.”
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert for a personalised treatment and maintain a balance in parenthood.]
