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.
09 September 2019
What's the best island to visit in Europe? Take a look at some of our top tips off the beaten track and find your very own island paradise...
[more...]
02 September 2019
If you're visiting the Land of the Rising Sun for the rugby, here's everything you need to know about the World Cup's host cities...
Not ready to wave goodbye to summer? Discover our top European destinations for last-minute summer sun...
Already stressing about that 8-hour flight? Make your journey more comfortable with our top tips for flying long-haul.
Heading on holiday to Japan? Get the most out of your trip to Tokyo with these must-see places in the Japanese capital.
Are you going on holiday to Japan? Get the most out of your trip by discovering these alternative, off-the-beaten-track destinations that will show you a different side to the Land of the Rising Sun.
21 August 2019
Travelling to Japan to watch the rugby? Here's everything you need to know about visiting the land of the rising sun, from payment methods to convenience store drinking!
Ready to experience the drama of rugby's greatest competition? Here's our guide to getting close to the action with a trip to magical Japan.
08 August 2019
Looking to travel back in time? Walk in the footsteps of Zeus and Apollo as you explore some of Greece's most iconic historical sites.
Want to explore off the beaten track? Discover your new Grecian paradise in one of these secluded island locations...
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.