Cancer is a word that often triggers fear and uncertainty, but knowledge can be power. Understanding cancer can help you feel more informed and empowered as you move from diagnosis to treatment.

So, what exactly is cancer? In simple terms, cancer is a disease that occurs when abnormal cells in the body begin to grow and multiply uncontrollably. These cells can invade nearby tissues and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body. Each type of cancer behaves differently and may require specific treatments.

As a young person, it’s natural to have lots of questions and concerns about cancer. On this website, we tell you about local services here in the East Midlands and signpost you to other useful websites and apps for further information. These resources will help you gain a better understanding of cancer, its causes and the various treatment options available. In addition, we also offer resources to help you navigate the emotional aspects of cancer. A cancer diagnosis can bring up a range of emotions, from fear and anger to sadness and confusion. It’s crucial to know that you’re not alone in these feelings.

For more information, advice and guidance visit the Teenage Cancer Trust website.

Types of cancer

There are more than 200 types of cancer, all caused by cells in the body not behaving as they should. The Teenage Cancer Trust has information on the most common cancers in young people.

These are:

• Bone cancer
• Brain tumours
• Cervical cancer
• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Leukaemia
• Ovarian cancer
• Skin cancer
• Soft tissue sarcoma
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Treatment

Cancer is treated in lots of different ways, you could have chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or sometimes a combination of them all but whatever treatment you have its important you have the opportunity to discuss this with your treating team and that you understand your options and have time to have your questions answered. Your TYA CNS can support you at your appointments and discuss any questions you might have following your consultation.

The doctors treating you and your TYA CNS will have an in depth discussion with you about the possible side affects you may have on treatment before you begin but you can always discuss these at a later date again as it is often overwhelming in your first appointment and difficult to remember everything.

It is likely you will experience some side effects from whichever treatment you have, but it’s important to remember that everyone will react differently to treatment, so don’t worry if you think you have side effects you were not expecting, just make sure you always discuss this with your treating team as there are often medications or treatments that can be given to reduce side effects.
There is plenty of information and support you can access from your treating team.

The Teenage Cancer Trust also has a lot of information on the different types of cancer treatment, which types are used to treat which cancers, and who to talk to about your cancer treatment.

This includes information on:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiotherapy
• Surgery
• Tests during treatment
• Medication during treatment
• Immunotherapy
• Bone marrow and stem cell transplants

What to do if I have any side effects

For general information and further reading about managing the side-effects of treatment, refer to our What to do if I have any side effects page.

Cancer jargon buster

A helpful explanation of key words used in cancer medicine has been produced by The Brain Tumour Charity.

Cancer stories

Every cancer experience is as unique as the person going through it. Reading young people’s cancer stories can be inspiring, moving and provide support for those facing diagnosis or treatment. See the Teenage Cancer Trust for further information.

Research and Trials 

Research and trials help develope new treatments and measure the impact of cancer on a person, helping better understand how we can better support them. If you would like to know of any trials available to you please speak with your consultant or nurse. The Teenage Cancer Trust have provided some useful information.

A-Z guide

The Macmillan website has a handy A-Z of cancer, including information on cancer types, diagnostic tests, treatments and impacts.