Cancer is said to be in remission when the signs and symptoms of the disease have significantly decreased or disappeared. Remission can last for months, years, or even a lifetime. However, it does not necessarily mean the cancer is completely gone or cured, as microscopic cancer cells may still remain in the body. For this reason, doctors often recommend continuing treatment or regular monitoring even after achieving remission.
There are two types of remission:
a. Complete Remission
Complete remission occurs when no evidence of cancer is found during physical exams, blood tests, or imaging scans. This means all visible signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared, and current tests cannot detect the disease.
b. Partial Remission
Partial remission means that imaging and blood tests show a significant reduction in cancer, with tumors reducing in size and number of cancerous cells decreasing.
While remission is a hopeful milestone, it’s essential to continue follow-up care to monitor for potential recurrence and ensure the best long-term outcomes.
What is the difference between cure and remission?
A cure means that after treatment, no traces of cancer are found in your body, and it is highly unlikely the cancer will return. Remission, on the other hand, refers to a significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of cancer.
Remission can be either partial or complete. In complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer are gone.
If a person remains in complete remission for five years or more, some doctors might describe them as cured. However, it’s important to note that some cancer cells can remain in the body for years after treatment. These dormant cells could potentially cause the cancer to return in the future.
Most cancers that recur do so within the first five years after treatment, though there is still a possibility of recurrence even after this period. Because of this uncertainty, doctors rarely use the term “cured” definitively. Instead, they typically say there are no current signs of cancer. To stay vigilant, they will monitor patients for many years, conducting regular tests to check for any signs of recurrence or late-onset side effects from previous treatments.
How to Manage Life with Cancer in Remission
Adjusting to life after cancer treatment can be challenging and often takes time. Recovery from treatment is a process, both physically and emotionally. Here are some ways to manage life in remission:
Stay informed: Speak with your oncologist to understand what you can expect during remission. While they may not be able to predict how long remission will last, they can guide you on monitoring for signs of recurrence and what symptoms to watch for.
Maintain a balanced diet: Eating a healthy, well-rounded diet can support your overall health. Consider consulting a nutritionist to create a meal plan tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.
Incorporate exercise: Physical activity can reduce stress, improve your mood, and help rebuild strength and stamina. Before starting a new exercise routine, consult your doctor to ensure it’s safe for your condition.
Adopt healthy lifestyle habits: If you use tobacco or consume alcohol, now is a good time to consider quitting. Developing or maintaining healthy habits can support your body’s healing process and overall wellness.
Communicate openly: People around you, such as friends, family, and colleagues, might assume you’re “completely better” because your cancer is in remission. Be honest about your journey and explain that remission doesn’t mean being entirely free of cancer. Sharing your story can help others understand your needs and provide support.
Prioritise rest: Cancer and its treatments can leave your body fatigued. Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep to aid your recovery. If you have difficulty sleeping, discuss this with your healthcare provider to explore solutions.
Are you concerned about remission and cancer?
You may book an appointment with any of the hospitals or clinics in Malaysia to seek for pregnancy care.
Need help to find your healthcare provider? View the list of MHTC’s member hospitals in Malaysia here:
Here at Malaysia Healthcare, we prioritise a patient’s entire being, not just their physical symptoms or diagnosis, but taking into account their mental, emotional, and even social well-being. This ensures their needs are met holistically with personalised care that supports every aspect of their healing and recovery journey.
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