A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 11,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer and around 45,000 cases of cervical carcinoma in situ are diagnosed in the United States each year. Around 4,000 women will die of this cancer. Many resources are available for women diagnosed with cervical cancer.
"What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer"
For a reliable primer on cervical cancer, consider this free booklet provided by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), a component of the National Institutes of Health. "What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer" explores the biology of the cervix, how cancer begins, the risk factors for cervical cancer, the symptoms, how the diagnosis is made, treatment options, self-care and much more. This booklet can be viewed online or printed directly from your computer for convenience. The NCI will also send you a copy upon request.
"Cervical Cancer: A Detailed Guide"
"Cervical Cancer: A Detailed Guide" is published by the American Cancer Society. This free guide discusses staging of cervical cancer, treatment options, questions to ask your doctor, lifestyle modifications and more. It can be read online or printed to read later.
"Johns Hopkins Patients' Guide to Cervical Cancer"
For a more extensive book on treatment options, you may want to consider "Johns Hopkins Patients' Guide to Cervical Cancer." This book was published in 2009 and promises to offer help for the patient who is dealing with overwhelming decisions. This book can be purchased online and may be available in bookstores. It may also be borrowed at public or medical libraries.
Online Community Support
The National Cervical Cancer Coalition provides an online community for cervical cancer patients and families. Non-medical questions are answered and support is shared by those facing the same challenges that you may have. This online forum is free to use.
Clinical Trial Information
The U.S. government provides a database of clinical trials for cervical cancer and other ailments. This database, maintained by the National Institutes of Health, lists dozens of clinical trials that are available if you are dissatisfied with your treatment options or your physician says there are no FDA-approved treatment options for you. All clinical trials are monitored by the FDA and participation is voluntary.
