Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
12 August 2014 10:11
Cancer patients need the support of friends and family
Cancer patients who feel lonely are far more likely to encounter problems with their treatment plans, a charity has said.
Macmillan Cancer Support says sufferers who feel on their own are three times more likely to experience difficulties as those who don't.
The cancer charity surveyed more than 1,000 people across the UK who have been told they have the disease.
It revealed that almost a quarter (22%) have felt lonely since diagnosis.
Nearly a third (31%) of those feeling lonely have faced at least one problem with their treatment plan, compared to only 11% of those who feel fully supported.
And that support doesn't solely need to be at the home - with specialist cancer travel insurance patients can join their family and loved ones on holiday, while retaining peace of mind.
Jacqui Graves, head of health and social care at Macmillan Cancer Support, says lonely cancer sufferers often lack the practical support they need to leave the house and attend medical appointments.
Living in rural or remote areas and being unable to drive can also make it more difficult to collect prescriptions or medication.
She added that some patients only attend appointments when they are persuaded to by friends and family.
Macmillian chief executive Ciaran Devane describes loneliness as "particularly toxic" to cancer sufferers. He said it is "simply unacceptable" that many cancer sufferers are putting their recovery at risk due to a lack of support.
Mr Devane urged for more to done to tackle the issue of loneliness, saying that with the UK's living-with-cancer population expected to double to four million by 2030, the problem is only likely to get bigger.
He called on health professionals to identify lonely patients and help them find the support available so they don't end up suffering their disease alone.
04 November 2019
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
[more...]
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.
Where's the best beach in Croatia? We answer that question and more as we look at the Adriatic beaches you won't want to miss out on...
02 October 2019
Enjoy National Pizza Month and grab a slice of history with the true story of everyone's favourite Italian flat-bread...