Editing Patient Pathways: Colon Cancer (section)

== Challenges during treatment ==

'''Physical difficulties'''

'''Lack of energy:''' constant fatigue and exhaustion due to treatment and hormonal

Bleeding during surgery, the appearance of infection in the wound area, non-healing of the wound (dehiscence), damage to the nerves of the small pelvis, which leads to difficulties with urination, stool or erectile function.

Scars from surgery can affect appearance and self-confidence.

'''Cardiovascular problems:''' hormonal imbalance can affect the work of the heart.

'''Hair loss:''' can occur due to radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

'''Skin problems:''' dry skin, itching or rash due to therapy.

'''Eye problems:''' Dry eyes or irritation from radiotherapy.

'''Metabolic problems:''' changes in metabolism due to hormone therapies.

'''Changes in weight:''' weight gain or loss due to hormonal changes.

'''Psychological difficulties'''

'''Fear and anxiety:''' fear of illness, treatment, side effects and uncertainty of outcome, anxiety related to regular check-ups and fear of recurrence.

'''Depression:''' feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in everyday activities, isolation. Changes in body image: discomfort due to physical changes, such as scars or changes in weight.

'''Stress due to treatment:''' Psychological stress due to intensive treatments and their impact on everyday life.

'''Relationship with a partner:''' sexual problems, decreased libido and emotional distance due to illness.

'''Family Relationships:''' Tensions within the family due to stress, role changes and responsibilities.

'''Social Isolation:''' Withdrawal from social activities due to fatigue, discomfort, or fear of exposure to infection during therapy.

'''Financial and professional difficulties'''

Reduced ability to work due to fatigue, side effects of treatment and emotional problems.

'''Absence from work:''' frequent medical appointments and treatments that require absence from work, which can affect career and financial stability.

High costs of medicines, operations, therapies and other medical services, travel and accommodation costs for patients who have to travel to healthcare centers. Reduced income due to reduced work capacity or job loss. Ongoing costs associated with long-term follow-up and health maintenance.

'''Lack of information'''

The need to understand complex medical information and make informed decisions. Difficulties in making treatment decisions due to lack of reliable and understandable information or conflicting advice.

Ignorance of patient rights.

Lack of information about healthcare providers during treatment.

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