How to Learn About Hodgkin's Disease Treatment

Hodgkin's disease causes malignant tissue to develop within the lymphatic system and especially within the lymph nodes. According to the American Cancer Society, only about 7,500 men and women develop Hodgkin's disease each year, making it one of the rarer forms of cancer. Treatment for Hodgkin's disease is effective and does have a very high survival rate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Talk with your doctor about chemotherapy. The most common treatment for Hodgkin's disease is chemotherapy. When caught within the first year, the survival rate for patients with Hodgkin's disease who use chemotherapy is 94 percent according to the American Cancer Society.
2. Consider radiation. Radiation is the second most common treatment for Hodgkin's disease. Radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy, although it can be used alone.
3. Be aware of the effects of radiation on children. Children rarely receive radiation therapy for Hodgkin's disease because radiation conflicts with the normal growth of tissue and bones, preventing a child from reaching his or her full potential height and muscle density.
4. Learn more about stem cell and bone marrow transplantation. Stem cell and bone marrow transplantation are also used to treat Hodgkin's disease.
5. Learn about potential clinical trials in your area. Many hospitals around the country offer clinical trial programs to patients with the hope of discovering more effective, less invasive treatments.
6. Upgrade your diet before and during treatment for Hodgkin's disease. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and high protein, low fat foods.
7. Schedule and attend regular follow-up appointments after receiving treatment for Hodgkin's disease. Your health will need to be carefully monitored for signs of a recurrence.

Tips & Warnings

• Understand that, thanks to the Patient's Bill of Rights, you may participate directly in the choices made regarding your treatment. You can accept or refuse any treatment options and are even permitted to leave clinical trials at your discretion.
• If you find you are having trouble dealing with Hodgkin's disease on your own, ask your doctor about support groups and possible medications.
• Bear in mind that swelling of the lymph nodes is not always indicative of the development of Hodgkin's disease. Tell your doctor about any symptoms you may be suffering from.