Cancer Support Resource Recreational Drug/Substance Use for Patients, Families, Caregivers Online version with active resource links at: http://cancer-help.me/drugs
What is substance use? Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use Recreational Drugs of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, and Cancer and tobacco. Examples include taking more over-the- counter or prescription medications than prescribed, like Most people know that opioid pain relievers, in addition to substances such as substance use can cause heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and tobacco products. health and other drug- Someone might be considered dependent on a substance related problems. But when he/she continues using it despite harmful many people might not consequences of develops increased tolerance for or know that using drugs can withdrawal symptoms from the substance. also raise their risk of developing cancer, worsen Where can I get help with my recreational drug use? symptoms of cancer, or interact with cancer Substances are frequently used as a coping strategy treatments to cause during times of stress, like managing a cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, there are a number of harmful side effects. treatments available to support recovery from drug use It is important for you to disorders and/or to help you adopt and maintain healthy speak to your cancer coping strategies and lifestyle behaviors. If you believe treatment team about you need support, talk to your care team. Your doctors whether or not it is safe for and nurses can help you to navigate options. A team you to use any legal or social worker may be a particularly good resource for you. illicit substances during or immediately following treatment. The medical To talk with someone at anytime: providers administering SAMHSA – treatment will be able to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration give specific advice about whether using various • National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) substances is safe with • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. • your prescribed Free and confidential information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing substance abuse and medications and treatment mental health issues procedures.
Content adapted from websites below. Resources for Additional Information: Recursos en Español: Ø NIH, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Cancer Ø NIH, Instituto Nacional Del Cáncer, Ø SAMHSA Find Treatment Alcohol y el riesgo de cáncer Ø SAMHSA, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Ø Cancer.Net, Alcohol Ø Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Drug Abuse and Cancer: Ø American Cancer Society, La relación What You Should Know entre el consumo de alcohol y el cáncer
The Coleman Foundation supported, Supportive Oncology Collaborative’s (SOC) Cancer Support Resources for Patients are a work in progress that may be redefined as new significant data become available. The SOC makes no warranties of any kind whatsoever regarding its content, use, or application and disclaims any responsibility for its application or use in any way. v.007.10092020