Qualitative studies indicated that cancer survivors may be worried about finding a partner in the future, but whether this concern is warranted is unknown. Correlations were used to investigate relationships between interest in a date and assessment of traits. However, widowed respondents were much less interested in a date with a cancer survivor, and women showed less interest in a cancer survivor during active follow-up relative to survivors beyond follow-up.

Cancer survivors do not have to expect any more problems in finding a date than people without a cancer history, and can wait a few dates before disclosing.

Here’s what cancer survivors want you to know about how they’ve changed and how to treat Moreover, most recurrence rates are at a 5-year post-cancer date.

Chest Port Access. Elissa Bantug , a two-time breast cancer survivor with an extensive history of breast cancer advocacy who counsels patients on intimacy. Whether you are a current breast cancer patient, have completed your treatment, or are living with advanced disease, the idea of going on a date may feel daunting. As someone who has had to learn how to date after cancer and who spends time counseling other patients on intimacy, I would say timing is everything.

I often advise patients not to have this discussion on first dates as this is a lot to process for both you and your potential partner. There is also a level of vulnerability that is required for a discussion like this that may not be suited for very initial stages of a new relationship. Although there might not be a perfect time to tell someone about your cancer journey, there are perhaps less ideal times. Here are some suggestions I often make:.