Patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) often experience a reduced quality of life due to various factors such as disease symptoms, treatment side effects, impact on daily activities, anxiety about future cancer risks, and concerns about appearance. Additionally, both general and skin cancer-specific distress, along with unmet supportive care needs, contribute to this reduced quality of life.1
The head and neck are the most common sites for NMSC, and the cosmetic outcomes of treatment in these areas can significantly affect a patient’s psychosocial well-being. This impact on confidence, distress, and body image can stem from both the tumor itself and its treatment.1
Surgery
Surgery is a primary treatment for skin cancer but can greatly impact patients’ quality of life. This impact includes pain, restricted mobility, and disruption to normal activities. Advanced squamous cell skin cancer poses additional challenges, such as significant cosmetic concerns, including skin discoloration, suture marks, or extensive scarring. A comprehensive reconstruction plan and regular follow-up with the surgeon are crucial.2 Research indicates that patients often report reduced quality of life due to pain, functional difficulties, and cosmetic issues one month after surgery. However, these aspects typically improve within a year For those experiencing disfigurement, aggressive reconstruction and emotional support are vital.2
Systemic therapy involves medications that travel through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body. These treatments can affect both cancer and normal cells, leading to side effects such as tiredness, muscle fatigue, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, headaches, body aches, diarrhea, or constipation.4
You can do several things to stay healthy during and after skin cancer treatment5:
Having cancer can evoke feelings of fear, sadness, or anxiety. Here are ways to cope5:
Share your emotions with someone you trust.
Consider friends, family, religious leaders, or support groups for help.
Engage in enjoyable activities and maintain healthy habits.
If you feel down for more than a few days, seek professional counseling.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help with daily tasks like cooking and cleaning. Support groups and one-on-one counseling can be beneficial. Communicate with your healthcare provider about your feelings; they can guide you to the appropriate support resources.5
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