Facing Cancer Recurrence
Cancer can come back for a number of reasons, so you shouldn’t feel like you have done anything wrong. At this point, it’s not important to worry about why you have recurrent cancer but focus on taking care of yourself. There still may be options available to you, or you may choose to focus on maintaining your quality of life. Cancer recurrence happens to a lot of people, so consider this just the next step in your journey.
If Cancer Returns
Cancer can come back for a few reasons. Let’s go over some of the reasons why, what to do next, and how you can prepare for the next step.
Recurrent Cancer Treatment Options
As you consider another treatment, there are a few options available to you. Based on what you and your healthcare team decide, you could be treated with the same treatment or a totally different one.
Stay
Connected
Receive periodic emails from Cancer.com with information tailored to your current needs, whether recently diagnosed, in treatment, or in remission.
Local Advocacy Groups
Connect locally to the resources, support, and services you need most.
Re-engaging Your Cancer Healthcare Team
Even if this is your first time with recurring cancer, your care team has experience with this. Find ways to communicate with them so you can understand all of your options and get an idea of what to expect.

