How To Use This Website
 

Cancer Basics

If you are living with cancer or supporting someone with cancer, there are lots of places to go for very good information about cancer. In this website, the section on “cancer basics” provides plain language information that may serve as a starting point. But please remember that the information is general and is not intended as medical advice. Everybody’s disease and treatment is different. For information that is specific to your condition and individual needs, please talk with your doctor, nurse or cancer specialist.

Fatigue and Anemia

Many cancer patients report that fatigue is the one of the most common side effects of having cancer and cancer treatment. In one study of patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation and drug therapy, 30% reported feelings of fatigue daily and 59% reported it occurred weekly or more often. Fatigue can become overwhelming and seriously limit your activities and your enjoyment in life.

In this section, we look at a variety of ways of dealing with fatigue and anemia caused by chemotherapy. Some involve making changes in your lifestyle or diet. Others may involve medications.

Treating fatigue caused by chemotherapy related anemia could restore the energy you need to get on with your life. It may also make it easier for you to deal with your other symptoms and your treatment.

Taking Action

The section on “taking action” will help you to decide what you need to do to get the treatment and support you need. This section discuses what to ask, who to ask, and how to ask. It has advice and examples for working on your own behalf or for or with others.  Sometimes, to get your own needs met, you can benefit by joining with others who are facing similar challenges together.   

Caregivers

Caring for a loved one who is ill can be overwhelming. Whether you are caring for your spouse, partner, parent, child or friend, you have an enormous responsibility and play a crucial role as part of the healthcare team. In this section you will learn some tips to better take care of your physical and mental health. Taking care of yourself will make you a more effective caregiver.

More Information

This section contains a glossary of terms, links to other websites that we think are helpful, and a bit about Ortho Biotech.

This site has been developed by Ortho Biotech, a division of Janssen-Ortho Inc. operating in Canada, and a member of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies. Janssen-Ortho Inc. is also a member of Rx&D Canada’s research- based pharmaceutical companies industry association.