When does someone become a cancer survivor?

A person is considered a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis through the balance of life. There are many types of survivors, including those living with cancer and those who are free of cancer.

What being a survivor means to you may change over time, and some people prefer a different term entirely to describe themselves. There is no single right way to think about it.

Survivorship covers a lot of ground—adjusting to life after treatment, follow-up medical care, late effects of treatment, and family issues. Your care team can help you plan for life during and after treatment.