Insurance companies have been in the hot seat lately, for good reason. Both private insurers and Medicare are experiencing piercing scrutiny for their routine and often mind-boggling refusals to reimburse. Read this article if you have any doubt that the system is broken.
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Erin Cummings: I have been a cancer survivor for most of my life
Erin Cummings, Founder and Executive Director of Hodgkin’s International, was featured in a recent post for OncoDaily.com. The piece was written for Linkedin and picked up by OncoDaily. Erin takes the opportunity to recognize and appreciate ALL the fellow Hodgkin’s survivors she has had the privilege to meet over the years.
Coffee, Tea, May Reduce Risk Of Head And Neck Cancers
Researchers have found a potential link to the consumption of coffee and tea to the reduced risk of head and neck cancers. The “how’s and why’s” are not yet clear, but we find this to be a very interesting discovery, especially as Hodgkin’s survivors may be at risk for cancers of the neck (esophageal) due to earlier radiation treatments.
Post-Traumatic Growth
We often hear about the association of PTSD with a cancer diagnosis, but there are, in fact, opportunities for positive change and growth.
The Science of Bias: How Tribalism Undermines Our Health
This article is a powerful commentary on the dangers of “tribal thinking” – the tendency to surround ourselves with others who mirror our own opinions, inadvertently creating a vacuum of objective thinking. As Sheilagh points out, this can be especially dangerous when it comes to making decisions about our health. (If prompted, click “Yes” for medical professional.)
‘Cancer ghosting’ can be more painful than treatment, survivors say
Chelsey Gomez was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 28. Cancer ghosting “is the most painful thing” she says, “because you’re sitting there thinking, ‘Oh, I must’ve been a horrible person.'”
Patient-Centered Care Must Account For Uncertainty, Anxiety, During Active Surveillance
“Active Surveillance” is defined as “a way to monitor cancer without immediately treating it, with the goal of delaying treatment until it’s necessary.” It is generally used to monitor low-risk cancers. Patients who are undergoing active surveillance may have regular tests and exams, such as bloodwork, X-rays or MRI’s, and even biopsies. It sounds a lot like what survivors of Hodgkin’s who are at risk for late effects are going through! While this article does not address late effects, it does call attention to the uncertainty and anxiety that many people experience when being watched closely – even if it’s with the intention to prevent a cancer diagnosis. We may be glad that we are being proactive about our health, but having those constant reminders can take a toll.
How To Cope With Seasonal Affective Disorder And Cancer
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is often referred to as “the winter blues.” It is thought to occur due to less sunlight in the winter months. Roughly 5% of Americans and between 2% and 8% of Europeans suffer from SAD. This condition can feel quite debilitating for some and can be exacerbated in those who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Study finds bone density loss associated with levothyroxine
Many Hodgkin’s survivors rely on levothyroxine (or name brand Synthroid) after radiation-induced thyroid damage—but a new study highlights a hidden risk.
Focus on Hope: Brescia’s Story
Brescia Dover’s story about her Hodgkin’s diagnosis will be familiar to many. She was diagnosed at age 20, just as she was entering the exciting and promising world of adulthood. Cancer stopped her in her tracks- but not for long. Brescia was lucky to have a fellow cancer survivor as her physician. Dr. Allison Rosenthal of the Mayo Clinic’s Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program was a survivor of leukemia, receiving the diagnosis when she was a medical student. She experienced the same upending of her life that Brescia would have. She understood the challenges that Brescia would face as few physicians could. This is a great story of two amazing survivors.