Cancer Remission: When Is It a Cure and Can Cancer Return?

Cancer remission is a concept that often brings both hope and uncertainty. After a period of successful treatment, the term can be misleading, prompting questions about whether the cancer is truly gone or if it might return. The answer to these questions largely depends on the specifics of the cancer, the type of treatment, and the patient's overall response to the treatment. According to medical experts, the only one who can accurately predict your risk of cancer recurrence is your treating oncologist. This article will explore the nuances of cancer remission, the reasons why cancer might return, and the importance of ongoing care.

Four Cancers, Four Journeys

Over the past 25 years, I have experienced four separate cancer diagnoses, each presenting a unique challenge and opportunity for early detection. My first cancer, breast cancer, was diagnosed in 1997. It was followed by uterine cancer in 2003 and fallopian cancer in the same year. An unrelated breast cancer then appeared in 2017/2018. Understanding the timeline of these cancers, there was a period of 5 years between 2003 and 2008, and another of 14 years from 2008 to 2022. This period illustrates the unpredictable nature of cancer. It can lie dormant in the body for years, only to re-emerge later, sometimes at a much later date. Each of these cancers was a separate disease, meaning none were reoccurrences. They were early-stage (Stage 1) except for the fourth, which was a more aggressive Stage 2B cancer.

The Sneaky Nature of Cancer

Cancer is often referred to as a 'sneaky beast' because it can hide in the body for many years, only to resurface at a later date. This unpredictability is one of the reasons why it's crucial to maintain regular checkups, even when you feel healthy. Early detection has been a key factor in the management of my cancers, and I attribute my survival to the early stage at which they were discovered. High-quality medical care and prompt attention to symptoms have been instrumental in my journey.

Understanding Cancer Remission

As many cancer patients can attest, there is a common misconception that remission means a complete cure. In reality, remission can be partial or complete and does not guarantee permanent freedom from cancer. A cancer that returns after it has been in remission is often referred to as a 'recurrence.' Unlike the initial diagnosis, a recurrence might present itself in the same area where the cancer was first detected, or it can appear in a different part of the body. This variability underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and follow-up care.

Two terms that are particularly relevant to discussions of remission are 'partial remission' and 'complete remission.' In partial remission, the cancer cells are still present but are not growing or multiplying. This might allow patients to take a break from treatment, provided the cancer does not start to grow again. Complete remission, on the other hand, involves all signs of cancer being completely gone. Some doctors use the term 'no evidence of disease' (NED) to describe complete remission, but this is often accompanied by the reminder that ongoing vigilance is necessary.

Regaining Hope and Staying Vigilant

While a significant portion of cancers in remission may not recur, it is important to acknowledge that cancer can reappear. Just as the chances of recurrence depend on the specifics of each case, so too do the odds of survival. Many cancer survivors, like myself, have a realistic view of their situation. While we are fortunate to have had early-stage cancers and the benefit of excellent medical care, we understand that a future cancer diagnosis is a real possibility. The prospect of living with cancer for an extended period is a sobering thought, but it also fuels a sense of determination to stay healthy and alert. My hope for the future is that angels will come to take me to Heaven, but not just yet. In the meantime, I rely on regular checkups and a strong support system to help me stay ahead of any potential health issues.

Conclusion

The journey from cancer diagnosis to remission is a complex and multifaceted one, and the road to lasting remission or cure can be long and arduous. For cancer survivors, the question of whether a five-year remission is a complete cure or a temporary reprieve often comes down to the details of their case. Oncologists play a crucial role in determining the risk of recurrence and guiding patients through the next steps in their journey. Regular follow-up care, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about symptoms are essential components of ongoing care. Ultimately, the goal for every cancer survivor is to advocate for their own health and stay one step ahead of any potential challenges that may arise.