In response to reader feedback, I've been asked to dive a bit deeper into some questions that last week's post has raised.
Are most cancer patients compliant?
Is there anything that I am non-compliant about?
Why wouldn't someone follow their doctors’ orders?
Though purely anecdotal, I would venture that almost all cancer patients are generally compliant. It tends to be a diagnosis that is shocking, overt and gets a lot of familial attention, so that increases scrutiny and support (ie: compliance). Cancer treatment represents a healthcare intervention that is most often administered in a clinic, so at-home non-compliance is much less of an issue. And, the health insurance infrastructure is more significant around cancer care, so doctor visits, meds and other aspects are usually covered/reimbursed more thoroughly than more routine (though still serious) maladies (if financial barriers are an issue).
I personally am compliant in all aspects - not because I am a good boy or constantly seek "gold stars" in life, but because knowing exactly what I have (MM) and knowing what is available to manage my situation, I feel fortunate (compelled) to do whatever I can to contribute to my own QOH (Quality of Health; I just made that up). Nothing that I have had to endure so far has been so onerous/scary that I've dreaded it to the point of not doing it (though I'm not looking forward to my next, inevitable bone marrow biopsy - - - ssshhh, don't remind Dr S.).
Treatment fatigue is one of numerous side effects of cancer therapy. Not being tired from the treatments, but being tired of the treatments. Many folks who go through several rounds of chemo or radiation or surgery, etc. get burned out by the sheer magnitude of the process. This could (and does) cause some patients to pause or even suspend their therapy (which is always a choice that they have). I have come nowhere near that threshold, but in my professional career, I have dealt with developing messaging for patients who feel inundated by it all and struggle to keep moving forward (ie: comply). Their frustration is very real and often difficult to emotionally or physically conquer - hence leading to a lack of medication adherence. These folks need support more than anyone, and the respect/latitude to make tough treatment decisions in a guilt-free environment. If you encounter someone like this in your life, they need your unconditional understanding.
Thanks for the thoughtful questions.
