How to support loved ones with cancer | Dr. Arif Kamal | TEDxRaleigh

Many people facing a cancer diagnosis experience loneliness and social isolation. In addition to worsening quality of life, such experiences are associated with shorter survival. Few realize they hold a life-changing healing power through regular outreach in the form of audio and written communication. We discuss that intentional, small-form efforts for connection can be rewarding to both allies of persons with cancer and the patients themselves, and can be achieved in as little as seconds a day. Complemented with usual therapies provided by doctors, communities can work together to improve the lives of millions of people who seek more and better days during their cancer journey. Dr. Arif Kamal is the inaugural chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society, a practicing oncologist and palliative care physician in North Carolina, and an associate professor of medicine and population health at the Duke University School of Medicine. He has published more than 225 peer-reviewed scientific articles and is recognized as an international expert in supportive oncology and palliative care This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx