

(QOPI®) Certification Program, an affiliate of the American Society of Clinical Oncology - Learn More
PVCS was the first practice to be certified by QOPI in Arizona
Cancer treatment can bring about a lot of physical changes for the patient. From decreased energy, to nausea, to pain and more. Many of these things can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes but one thing many people do not consider is that cognitive function may also be effected by cancer treatment. Cognitive function is someone’s ability to process thoughts, comprehend what they are reading, and speak. Chemotherapy has many side effects, some lasting, and some temporary. So, how will cognitive function be effected by cancer treatment?
Battling the side effects of chemotherapy can be incredibly frustrating and diminishing cognitive function is not only frustrating, but challenging to deal with. While not every patient will experience a decline in their cognitive ability, some will and it is important to understand what it is and what it looks like. Livestrong Foundation explains how cognitive function can be effected by cancer treatment, “Some cancers and treatments can result in cognitive changes that affect thinking, learning, processing or remembering information. These changes can affect many aspects of life such as the ability to work or even to do everyday tasks. Find out whether you have an increased risk of cognitive changes. Cognitive changes can happen suddenly (acute onset) or slowly over time (gradual onset). These types of changes can be different in adults and children. We’ll focus here on cognitive changes in adults with cancer. Talk with your health care team if you have questions related to children who experience cognitive changes… Cognitive changes are sometimes related to higher dose chemotherapy and the use of immunotherapy to boost the immune system. Those who have cancer involving the brain may also experience cognitive changes as a result of the tumor or the treatment of the tumor. While cognitive changes associated with brain surgery often occur immediately, changes associated with radiation and chemotherapy can develop more gradually over time.” Below are a list of potential side effects or symptoms of cognitive decline that you may notice. If you notice any of these changes, consult your physician to discuss your symptoms and discuss ways to treat them.