Dating cancer survivors

How young cancer survivors navigate dating, fertility and health

Although being in a close relationship during the cancer journey can dramatically improve outcomes, the stress of treatment and the diagnosis itself can take a toll on couples, sometimes in a negative way. In most cases, couples draw closer during the cancer journey and come through the experience with their relationship intact. This is important because studies show that being in a close relationship can dramatically improve patient outcomes. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology , for example, noted that married patients tended to have cancer diagnosed at an earlier stage, when it can be more successfully treated; receive more appropriate treatment; and live longer than patients who are not married. However, not all relationships are strong enough to survive a cancer diagnosis, and the details of the cancer course can affect this as well. According to a study published in the journal Cancer , a woman with cancer or other serious illness is six times more likely to be separated or divorced soon after receiving her diagnosis than a male patient.

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Build your own network of contacts who share your diagnosis. Use built-in messaging tools to meet or mentor. Join, create or lead your own support group. Meet new friends from around the world and, maybe, fall in love.

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The study will allow us to see how the program strengthens couples and reduces the impact of breast cancer on relationships. Your participation will help us know how it works so that it can be available to help cancer patients in the future. We adapted an existing program specifically for Latina breast cancer survivors and their partners.

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Social Relationships

Dealing with an illness like cancer can change your relationships with the people in your life. It is normal to notice changes in the way you relate to family, friends, and other people that you are around every day—and the way they relate to you. This section talks about some of the issues cancer survivors face in relating to family members, partners and dating, friends, and coworkers after treatment. Even though treatment has ended, you may face problems with your family. For instance, if you used to take care of the house or yard before your treatment, you may find these jobs too much to handle after treatment has ended.

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