People often feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious and upset after a diagnosis of cancer. These are all normal feelings.
Having practical and emotional support during and after diagnosis and treatment for cancer is very important. Support may be available from family and friends, health professionals or special support services.
More information about finding support can be found here in the dedicated Living with cancer section. This information deals with some of the challenges experienced by people affected by cancer. It includes information about managing some of the longer term side effects of treatment, how people close to you might feel after a diagnosis of cancer, and where to find practical and emotional support.
Your guide to best cancer care
The Guide to Best Cancer Care (summary of the Optimal Care Pathway) is available to help you understand the best cancer care that should be provided from diagnosis, through to treatment and beyond. It is available in multiple languages.
It includes timeframes within which tests or procedures should ideally be completed. It can also help you with questions to ask your health professionals to make sure you receive the best care at every step.
The full version of the Optimal care pathway for men with breast cancer is available here.
There are also two resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to help you to know what to expect:
For out more about
- Breast Cancer Network Australia's Helpline has a number of experienced cancer nurses assisting Australians affected by breast cancer and their family members - call 1800 500 258.
- Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre (ACSC) aims to optimise the health and wellbeing of cancer survivors and their carers.
