16/06/09

Cancer nurse groups together support

Patients with a potentially lifelong condition caused by the side effects of cancer treatment have been given a support network by Ipswich Hospital.

Treatments such as chemotherapy and cancer-beating drugs can leave patients with damage to their nerves, a condition called peripheral neuropathy.

Cancer Information nurse specialist Karen Sheen has now started a support group at the hospital so people affected can share experiences and advice.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include pain, numbness and tingling - mainly in patients’ fingers and toes. This can result in people hurting themselves, for example burning themselves, and grievances such as dropping things frequently.

Miss Sheen said: “There’s no medical intervention which can cure this condition so talking to others and getting advice can be a huge help to patents. The new group will enable people to share ideas and learn how each other are coping.”

Healthcare professionals including physiotherapists and occupational therapists will join the meetings to give management advice. The group will also be taught about benefits advice, how home adaptations can help and worldwide medical research underway.

Peripheral neuropathy is a side effect from some anti-cancer treatments. It affects both males and females, and people of all ages. The support group is open to everybody.

The support group will be held every other month, with the next meeting in August. Please contact Miss Sheen at the John LeVay Cancer Information Centre on 01473 715748 for details.

Other support groups at the hospital include sessions for those affected by lung cancer and head and neck cancer. Details are also available from the Cancer Information Centre.