No One Should Face Cancer Alone: The Power of Community in Cancer Care

Culturally relevant support systems may help patients advocate for themselves.

Beyond cancer treatments, scans, and countless appointments, there is another critical factor in a patient’s well-being: community. I have always been a strong advocate for involving and including the community in supporting people with cancer. I have seen firsthand how it enhances a person’s quality of life and the negative impact when it is absent. The difference is profound.

Research shows that those with strong support and community ties often feel more hopeful, engaged in their care, and resilient. Those without these things are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and isolation.¹ In my years working with people diagnosed with cancer, I have seen how a lack of support can be just as devastating as the disease itself. But I have also witnessed incredible transformations when patients find a supportive network. Whether through traditional support groups, peer connections, or creative outlets such as art and dance, bringing people together who share similar experiences helps combat loneliness and misunderstanding.

If you have worked with people diagnosed with cancer, you will understand there is something uniquely powerful for those patients about interacting with others who truly understand what it means to live with cancer. This relationship nurtures a sense of validation, emotional resilience, and feelings of hope. Improved mental and emotional health is a foundation for the ability to cope with cancer.

In addition to emotional health, physical health can also be improved by community support. People with cancer who build strong relationships are more likely to adopt healthier behaviors, adhere to treatment, and experience better treatment outcomes.^1,2

Cultural Competence in Cancer Care

As health care professionals, we can work together to nurture the healing power of community and refer to diverse, culturally competent, and cancer-focused programs. Unfortunately, people may not be aware of these specific programs and, without guidance, could miss out on the benefits of specialized support networks. I always say, “You don’t know what you don’t know.”

Social workers and nurses, in particular, are in a perfect position to provide this guidance. We can help people find the support they need within and beyond the walls of their medical center. In doing so, we can address not only emotional and physical well-being but also the disparities that leave too many groups isolated and underserved.¹

Although the influence of community is universal, I have seen that access to it is often not. We often associate health disparities with access to cancer screening, treatment, and care. I have seen how opportunity for support information is also compromised in vulnerable populations. Lack of inclusion within groups, local programs, and culturally competent programs creates a barrier to emotional health. Patients may not know where to turn or what exists.

I believe that community-based programs and organizations can fill this gap. Patients with cancer benefit from personalized programs that offer free services, practical assistance, and even navigation. Culturally specific programs provide not only emotional support but also tailored information that can empower individuals to advocate for themselves.²

Understanding Patients' Support Systems

Among the first questions I ask patients is, “Who is supporting you through all this?” or “Is there anyone else you feel comfortable sharing this with?” These types of questions can open the door to discussions about guidance, education, and resources. We need to ask, “Who is in your corner?” Getting to know your patients helps identify their needs, obstacles, and possible solutions.

I encourage all health care professionals to have this conversation with their patients and to familiarize themselves with local and national cancer support organizations. Whether it’s a hospital-based program, a nonprofit organization, or online communities for those who can’t attend in person, building a list of programs can connect patients with support quickly. Remember to follow up—checking in with referrals can reinforce the importance of community and allow for continued engagement.

To create a greater impact, we must not only refer patients to the community resources. We should engage with them ourselves. Community engagement is considered “an approach aimed at addressing health-related issues, promoting well-being, and acting on the social determinants of health.”³ Taking this action will establish trust and opportunities to work together more effectively. Bridging the gap between the health care center and the community can help people feel more unified and empowered. Understanding what the community needs is essential to providing interventions, programs, and services that lead to positive outcomes.³

Effective community engagement requires collaboration and an understanding of the specific values and experiences of the people we help. Tailoring information to meet the needs of a community creates an exchange of knowledge and resources, ensuring that support is meaningful and accessible. This not only strengthens local support systems but also addresses barriers to care. Mobilizing community resources creates a foundation for solutions. When we recognize communities as experts in their own experiences, we promote inclusivity, confidence, and better outcomes for those facing cancer.²

I cannot stress enough the necessity of community support and involvement. It is a crucial component of cancer care that will influence emotional and physical outcomes, just like access to traditional cancer treatment. We have the ability and the responsibility to empower patients and facilitate lasting change in the way people experience cancer. Seize the opportunity to make that significant impact in your patients’ lives and connect people to systems that will create purposeful and deliberate change.

So, the next time you sit with a patient, ask them, “Who’s in your corner?” Because no one should have to face cancer alone.

References

1. Usta YY. Importance of social support in cancer patients. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2012;13(8):3569-3572. doi:10.7314/APJCP.2012.13.8.3569
2. Kale S, Hirani S, Vardhan S, et al. Addressing cancer disparities through community engagement: lessons and best practices. Cureus. 2023;15(8):e43445. doi:10.7759/cureus.43445
3. Redvers N, Odugleh-Kolev A, Cordero JP, et al. Relational community engagement within health interventions at varied outcome scales. PLOS Glob Public Health. 2024;4(6):e0003193. doi:10.1371/journal.pgph.0003193