Almost two-thirds (64%) of cancer survivors say that what they value has changed, and another eight in 10 said the illness has given them a new outlook on life, according to an Axa Health poll released today.
Before their diagnosis, making sure their family was comfortable (39%) and earning more money (36%) were major motivators.
But after cancer, their focus shifted to family (80%), their health and wellbeing (62%) and experiencing new things in life (48%).
The poll of 500 cancer survivors was carried out in October 2024 for Axa Health by OnePoll.
Some of the most popular lifestyle changes people have made are: walking more (45%), exercising more (42%) and focusing more on their diet (39%).
A significant number (44%) are increasingly likely to seek help from others to deal with tricky challenges than they were prior to their diagnosis, with 7% less inclined now.
And 80% feel better equipped to deal with the difficulties of life since their experience with cancer.
The majority said it was important to rely on others through their journey, with family (73%), medical professionals (56%) and friends (46%) being the people who they relied on the most.
And it is partners (56%), friends (32%) and mums (31%) who were most impacted by the cancer diagnosis.
But 70% of those polled were also worried about the possibility of cancer returning, the research said.
Dr John Burke, chief medical officer at Axa Health (pictured), which commissioned the research and created a practical guide to help those with life after cancer, said: “Serious illness can have an impact on our outlook.
“It can realign what is and isn’t important in life, so it’s only natural there might be changes.
“Family and friends can go a long way in supporting you through the experience along with the guidance of medical professionals who can support you in navigating life during and after treatment.”
Burke added: “A cancer diagnosis has a huge impact not only on the person affected, but also their friends, family and loved ones.
“It doesn’t always feel over after receiving the ‘all-clear’ so it’s important to have support navigating a new normal, too.
“That might be help with managing new worries, getting much needed sleep or setting health goals.
“Taking things easy and focusing on the future are ways to make things feel more manageable after undergoing cancer treatment.
“Providing people with support and guidance to navigate this stage of their cancer journey can make a huge difference, helping them to move forward and focus on the things that matter most.”
