Many cancer patients isolated, poll

14 February 2013 08:53

Around a quarter of cancer patients feel cut off from family and friends, a charity says

Around a quarter of cancer patients feel cut off from family and friends, a charity says

Almost a quarter (23%) of cancer patients feel isolated from family and friends, according to Macmillan Cancer Support. The charity said there is a lack of support for the patients in treatment and recovery, and isolation can be shattering on people living with the disease.

Researchers said family and friends are often "too busy" or live too far away. One way patients can ease their concerns, particularly regarding travel to see friends or family, is through taking out cancer travel insurance.

Macmillan's survey of 1,700 patients showed depression hit nearly one third of isolated patients, with many leaving out meals through lack of support and others being unable to carry out chores without assistance. The charity also polled 150 health professionals who revealed they have had patients missing treatment completely as they had no support.

Ciaran Devane, chief executive of the charity, said: "This research shows that isolation can have a truly shattering impact on people living with cancer. Patients are going hungry, missing medical appointments and even deciding to reject treatment altogether which could be putting their lives at risk - all because of a lack of support."

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