Cancer and Disability: Understanding the intersection of chronic illness, functional impairment, and the role of literature

Abstract

With millions diagnosed worldwide, cancer is a chronic illness that significantly impacts a person’s social and emotional well-being. Its adverse effects extend beyond physical suffering to emotional distress and, in many cases, long-term disability. This paper explores the intersection of cancer and disability, examining the extent to which cancer patients qualify as disabled. It focuses on the challenges faced by disabled individuals with cancer, the role of literature in articulating their experiences, and the support systems that aid in their rehabilitation and social integration. Among all mediums, literature emerges as a powerful tool for representing the lived realities of cancer patients and advocating for inclusive policies. Ultimately, this paper argues that literature plays a crucial role in bridging the gap
between medical understanding and human experience, making it indispensable in the discourse on cancer and disability.