Tracking Progress
Monitoring Recovery Milestones for Cancer Survivors

Introduction

Tracking Progress involves regularly monitoring and recording milestones in physical, emotional, and social recovery to support cancer survivors at all stages. This practice fosters self-awareness, motivation, and informed decision-making by providing clear insights into health and well-being trends.

Why It Works

Tracking Progress empowers survivors by offering tangible evidence of improvement, boosting confidence, and adherence to recovery goals. Research shows that consistent monitoring enhances self-efficacy, reduces anxiety, and supports better management of symptoms like fatigue or emotional distress, leading to improved quality of life.

How To Do It

Instructions:

1. Identify Key Metrics

During Treatment: Track symptoms (e.g., fatigue, nausea) or medication adherence.
Early Recovery: Monitor energy levels, physical activity, or mood changes.
Late Recovery: Record long-term goals like fitness improvements or social engagement.

2. Choose a Method

Select a tool—journal, spreadsheet, or app—based on comfort and accessibility.

3. Set a Schedule

Log progress daily or weekly, depending on recovery phase and energy levels.

4. Record Observations

Note quantitative data (e.g., steps walked) and qualitative insights (e.g., feelings of hope).

5. Review Trends

Analyze logs weekly or monthly to identify patterns or areas needing adjustment.

6. Share with Professionals

Discuss findings with healthcare providers to refine recovery plans.

7. Adjust Goals

Use insights to update Daily Goals, SMART Goals, or Strategic Goals as needed.

8. Celebrate Milestones

Acknowledge progress, like increased stamina or reduced stress, to stay motivated. Establishing a habit of celebrating 'small victories' will help create a positive feedback loop to keep you moving forward.

Helpful Tips:

Keep it simple: Track 1–3 metrics to avoid overwhelm.
Be consistent: Log at the same time daily or weekly for accuracy.
Use visuals: Charts or graphs can highlight progress trends.
Stay flexible: Adjust tracking focus as recovery needs change.
Seek support: Share logs with a caregiver or support group for encouragement.
Protect privacy: Ensure digital tools are secure for sensitive health data.
Combine methods: Pair journaling with apps for comprehensive tracking.
Reflect regularly: Use logs to celebrate small wins and plan next steps.
Be patient: Progress may be slow, especially during treatment.

Dana-Farber

Popular Apps

ACS Cares

American Cancer Society

App St o re

Google Play

Cancer Care Planner

Outcomes4Me

App St o re

Google Play

Safe Place for Health Journeys

Caring Bridge

App St o re

Google Play

Scientific Research

Stanton, A. L., et al. (2015). Randomized controlled trial of expressive writing for patients with cancer. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 33(6), 663–670. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25581821/
Speck, R. M., et al. (2010). An update of controlled physical activity trials in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Cancer Survivorship, 4(2), 87–100. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19967407/
Oberoi, S., et al. (2020). Self-management and self-monitoring in cancer survivors: A scoping review. Supportive Care in Cancer, 28(8), 3445–3455. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32447546/

Tracking Progress
Monitoring Recovery Milestones for Cancer Survivors

Introduction

Why It Works

How To Do It

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