I had another Medical Imaging procedure (CT Scan) to help my Oncologists determine how much cancer is in my body and how far it has spread.
Oncologists informed me that the same Inherited genetic mutation that causes aggressive Prostate Cancer in men also significantly increases the risk of breast cancer in women, within the same family. In other words, there is a strong correlation between Prostate Cancer and Breast Cancer.
My Oncologists will now decide on which additional medications I will have to take for the Cancer treatment.
FYI – I am just one Cancer patient who is going through these procedures and treatments. There are thousands of Cancer patients and the amount of money for Cancer Care is staggering.
Unfortunately, the Cancer Care system is struggling with the tremendous number of Cancer patients. This leads to increased stress on the patients and the Oncologists, as well as many other healthcare providers.
Cancer patients experience a wide variety of very complex physical, social, emotional and other challenges. This is very costly for the patient as well as our communities.
As a Cancer patient, I know how important it is for everyone to focus on the “EARLY” detection of cancer.
The annual number of new cancer cases diagnosed in Canada in 2026 is projected to be 254 100.
This means that the average number of new Cancer patients seen by a Canadian Oncologist will be high, at approximately 129 new patients each year.
When I worked as a TDSB middle school classroom Teacher, I struggled with the larger classroom sizes. More students in my class made it very challenging for me to get to know the wide variety of strengths and needs of my students, and to meet their individual learning needs. (I frequently had classes with up to 30 students)
Oncologists throughout Canada are facing a similar challenge that is taking place in the medical system.
How can an Oncologist get to know their patients when they have so many new patients ?
A more personalized Cancer Care approach would help Oncologists determine a patient’s unique genetic profile to help guide diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
To effectively deal with the Cancer diagnosis, I have learned that I must be an active advocate for my own care.
I must continue to learn about this horrible disease in order for me to feel more in control of my Cancer Care, and to be able to make informed decisions about my treatments.
In this Cancer journey, I have learned that it is very important for me to be able to speak with an Oncologist for more than 15 to 20 minutes about various issues, including genetic testing and new treatment options.
What You Can Do:
Knowing your family’s history of Cancer will help you identify risk and take preventive measures.
Wishing you way more than luck. 🙏
Anthony Aquan-Assee
“Always Believe” 🙏
References:
(1) https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JOP.18.00114#T1
(2) https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/tests-and-procedures/prostate-specific-antigen-psa-test
2 Comments
Leanne Michalofsky
I have complete empathy for you Anthony and the journey you are on. It is not easy to say the least. As you know, I am a two time cancer “warrior” diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer at 48 and 61 years of age. I use the term warrior because I did not just survive! As I reflect back now at 67 years old and have experience as a patient and nurse, it is getting harder and harder to receive care and navigate the health care system. It is scary to receive a cancer diagnosis and even more so when deemed “aggressive” and having spread. Yes, there are advancements in treatment modalities however the access and expediency of care has not. Unfortunately, the rate of cancer cannot keep up with the current resources. This leaves an anxious patient pondering if they will be the one to receive quick access. And if not, then what? During my journey and definitely at this time, you have to push the boundaries, advocating for what you need. I believe persistence pays off. It is exhausting for the cancer patient and their families. It can feel never ending. And it does not stop after treatment is completed. As with myself finishing all treatment in July 2023, I must continue to pursue any concerns with my health. It may not be cancer or a reoccurrence. It does leave cause for taking nothing lightly, in regards to health. I hope and pray that Anthony, and other cancer patients can persevere within a health care system that is fragile. Continue to be your own voice, involve your MP, become involved with other advocates, share with your healthcare team, and don’t give up. I have to believe that the healthcare professionals are trying to do the best they can, in a system that we never imagined.
Anthony Aquan-Assee
Hi Leanne. Thank you for sharing your very wise words. I greatly appreciate your help and support. I am in awe of your courage and your resilience having experienced this extremely difficult health challenge on two different occasions. “Cancer creates change you don’t choose. Healing is about creating change you do choose.” Namaste. 🙏