Reaching a point where your cancer is in complete remission is a big milestone, it means the primary symptoms should have disappeared or at least improved a lot. Usually, your doctor will do a thorough check-up, and scans like CT or MRI will show no signs of the tumor or any cancer in your body. It’s a really encouraging sign that the treatment has done its job. 

But, even though you might be feeling relieved, it’s important to stay alert. The truth is, there’s a higher chance your cancer could come back or a new cancer could develop in the years ahead. That’s why your ongoing vigilance is so vital. Catching any recurrence early gives you the best chance of successful treatment if it happens. 

Why It’s So Important to Keep Monitoring Yourself 

It’s natural to feel a bit anxious while waiting for follow-up tests, but early detection can make all the difference. For example, patients diagnosed early with stage I head and neck cancer have about a 90% chance of being cured, compared to around 70% for stage II. So, regular follow-ups, physical exams, scans, and tests, are essential, and your healthcare team will create a personalised schedule based on your specific diagnosis and treatment. 

While these check-ups can be nerve-wracking, they’re your best defence against surprises. The quicker any return is spotted, the sooner it can be treated, and your outlook will be better. 

 Living with the ‘New Normal’ 

Once in remission, some people do remarkably well and get used to their “new normal”, whether that’s managing difficulties with swallowing, speaking, or breathing. Others might continue to face ongoing challenges for a while, or even long-term. The good news is, supportive therapies like speech and swallowing rehabilitation, prosthetic devices, and ongoing therapy can help improve your quality of life, and many people adapt well and return to full, active lives. 

It’s normal to feel some stress or even “scanxiety”, the worry that comes with waiting for test results. But remember, your care team is there to support you every step of the way. 

Understanding the Risk of Recurrence 

Sadly, around 50% of people successfully treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck will experience recurrence within about two years. Recurrence can either be near the original tumor site (called locoregional recurrence) or in distant parts of the body (known as metastatic recurrence). 

Statistics show that roughly 30-40% of these patients will have locoregional recurrence, while 20-30% might develop metastatic disease elsewhere. The most effective way to handle this risk is through regular follow-up: visiting your doctor for check-ups and scans, which can help catch any signs of recurrence early. Just like your initial diagnosis, the sooner it’s detected, the better your chances of treatment and recovery. 

In a Nutshell: 

  • Even if your cancer is now in remission, it’s essential to stay vigilant and keep up with scheduled check-ups. 
  • Regular monitoring helps catch any signs of recurrence early, improving your prognosis. 
  • Feeling anxious or stressed is normal. Talking to your healthcare team and loved ones can help. 
  • Some side-effects may persist, but support and rehabilitation can help you regain your confidence and strength. 
  • Many people go on to lead fulfilled, active lives after remission. There’s hope, and you’re not alone in this. 

Remember, your healthcare team is there to support you. Staying proactive about your health can make all the difference in the long run.