Cancer Care

What is Cancer?

Over 2 million people are living with cancer in the UK. Cancer is a common condition where cells in specific areas of the body grow and reproduce uncontrollably. The cancerous cells can then invade and destroy surrounding healthy tissues, and organs. More than 331,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year. Men are slightly more likely to develop cancer than women. In the UK each year approximately 167,480 men are diagnosed with the condition, whilst the diagnosis rate in women is 64,000. As people age their chances of developing cancer increase, this can vary depending on the specific type of cancer. Almost two thirds of people diagnosed are aged 65 and over.

In the United Kingdom, the four most common types of cancer are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer. In 2011 it was found that these types of cancer account for around 53% of all new cases.

There are over 200 different strains of cancer, each will affect the body and develop in different ways – meaning symptoms will vary from person to person. However, the key symptoms to look out for include unexplained lumps, blood in your urine, changes to your bowel habits, unexplained weight loss and changes to, or new, moles. Persistent bloating, sores that won’t heal, unexplained pains and aches and extended periods of coughing, breathlessness and chest pain are also symptoms that can be associated with the illness. This list is not exhaustive; if there are any abnormal changes to a person’s body they should contact their GP.

Our cancer care and support includes:

• Support with personal care that is tailored to each individual
• Visiting care that can adapt as your needs change, supporting complex medication regimes
• Short regular visits through to longer visits, night care, respite or a full time live in carer
• Specialist support assistants who are trained to help them understand the complexities of various types of cancer
• Dedicated care team with over 25 years’ experience in the care sector
• Full assessment before care starts
• Bespoke and flexible support plan
• Social activities and lifestyle enhancement

Letting a carer into the home of you or your loved one isn’t an easy decision. Understandably people have lots of questions and reservations about cancer care at home. Our friendly, highly experienced team members are always available to answer any questions you might have. We’re happy to talk you through each of the steps involved in the cancer care and support we offer, and offer compassionate, impartial advice when wanted.