Cancer Phobia – Fear of cancer.
Author: Dr Nishikanta Tripathy, Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon
What is cancer Phobia? Cancer Phobia or carcinophobia is condition where a person has persistent and excessive fear of having or developing a cancer. Many times, person may get so much pre-occupied with the fear of cancer that it affects day to day life, relationships and work. This can be debilitating and distressing.
How cancer phobia develops?
Past experience of cancer treatment: When a person has received treatment for cancer, and there is a risk of recurrence of disease, fear of reappearance of cancer remains in mind of that person.
Seeing loved ones affected with cancer. Near or dear ones dying of cancer.
Excessive exposure to sensationalized and dramatized cancer related stories.
People who are highly susceptible to stress and anxiety may develop fear of disease in general and cancer phobia in particular.
Misconception about cancer causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment may also contribute to phobia.
What are symptoms of cancer phobia?
Anxiety and panic: excessive and unwarranted fear, worry, panic attacks.
Repeated reassurance seeking: visiting multiple doctors, constantly seeking medical opinions, doing multiple tests, many times by oneself, even when there is no evidence of disease.
Nonspecific symptoms like muscle tension, nonspecific pain, anxiety.
How to cope with cancer phobia? Being aware about the condition is essential as it will help to cope with the condition.
Awareness about cancer phobia is essential. Identifying irrational and negative thoughts about diseases and replacing with more balanced and realistic thoughts are essential to get rid of cancer phobia.
Practicing relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, yoga can help to manage anxiety, stress and panic symptoms
Engaging in healthy life styles like daily exercise, balanced diet, physical activities will help to mitigate cancer phobia.
Building a support group of family and friends, and sharing your thoughts about fear of cancer and getting encouragement will go a long way.
If fear of cancer is significantly affecting daily life seeking professional help from psychologist is essential.