Fresh from the conference, I wanted to summarise some of the key discussions you may find interesting. I was attending on a professional basis, but could not help but consider the personal implications of some of the presentations having been a cancer patient myself.
Oncology Professional Care is a multi-disciplinary conference so aimed at all healthcare professionals involved in oncology care. That's everyone from Oncology Physios to Therapeutic Radiographers, Nurse Specialists to Allied Health Professionals. The aim is to discuss the entire care pathway - everything from diagnosis, treatment and after care.
There was so much I could have attended, but decided to focus on sessions I thought you'd find most interesting.
Managing the after-effects of treatment was a huge focus - I listened to discussions about the side effects of radiotherapy. One specific session focussed on head and neck cancers but providing general points around how long the side effects can stay with a patient. Some experience these after-effects for 10 years or more. The consultant oncologist who spoke tried to emphasize that a side effect on paper is very different to how it may impact a patient's life and the importance of asking and listening.
S@x after cancer was also discussed as an after-effect of treatment, particularly for women with gynaecological, pelvic or hormone-driven cancers, and men with testicular or prostate cancers. The main takeaway point was that more conversations needed to be had with patients about the impact treatment has had on intimacy and s@x for a patient. Too many people were suffering in silence, feeling isolated and alone when actually a large percentage of patients experience problems. So if you're not asked, tell someone as they may be able to help.
My most favourite session was of course on physical activity. The presentation was given by a number of different representatives from leading cancer centres and alliances. Discussions focussed on how services were being implemented into larger hospitals and NHS Trusts and how they were educating staff to deliver the message to patients that rest is not best.
The Royal Marsden NHS Trust have recently launched a Physical Activity Strategy that is being rolled out across the hospitals. The most interesting part was that they were practicing what they preach by encouraging those delivering the message to patients to be more active themselves. It felt inclusive and motivational but also beneficial for everyone involved.
The South East London Cancer Alliance has launched an incredible information hub for both patients and healthcare professionals offering information on different types of movement at all stages of treatment and for all different cancers. You can also find a whole module of videos and information for patients via the Guys Cancer Academy website here.
The Chartered Society for Physiotherapy is working on a number of physical activity projects including one focussed on how to build strength across disease areas, with specific guidance on cancer, available here.
The conference also provided a wonderful opportunity to meet colleagues in person finding out more about what they do, as well as introducing Get Me Back. Our lovely physio Hannah and I also got to hang out too!
If you have any questions or want any more information please just pop me an email sarah@getmeback.uk.
Over and out x
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