Understanding Biomarker Testing in NSCLC

Lung cancer patients face many challenges following their diagnosis. A ‘normal’ life comes to an abrupt halt when the ‘C’ word becomes a reality. Topping the list of challenges is the need to understand your diagnosis, which can feel impossible given its complexity. But educate yourself, you must. Studies show that the well-informed cancer patients that participate in decisions about their care live better and, in some cases, live longer. Learn more about your diagnosis.

 

The mental health struggle is real and dealing with so many new emotions can be overwhelming. Endless appointments fill each week and physical changes and treatments can be hard on your body and your ability to cope. Your feelings of anger, sadness, anxiety, shame, and loneliness are real, and they can affect health outcomes. It’s a tough time, but there is help for cancer patients in their moment of need. Ask your oncologist or care nurse to direct you to services for anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges that are adding to your distress. To help you cope, you may consider joining a support group to connect with others who share your experience, or signing up for a peer-to-peer companion to talk to. Learn about ABOH Patient Support Services at abreathofhope.org!

 

Precision or personalized medicine is one of the most important and exciting advancements in the cancer field. Where once cases were only treated with chemo, surgery and/or radiation, now there are often more successful options like immunotherapy and targeted treatments. But first – you must receive biomarker testing to understand the molecular make-up of your tumor. With this information, physicians can determine the best course of action for your own case.

 

Learn more about the importance of biomarker testing here.