After completing your treatment for NHL, talk with your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. This plan may include regular physical examinations and/or medical tests to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years. For the first two years, visits to the doctor are usually every two or three months. If there is no evidence of disease, patients will not have to see the doctor as often but should still return at least once a year for a checkup. Normally, follow-up visits are most frequent in the first three years after treatment. Follow-up visits should continue throughout the person’s lifetime.

ASCO offers cancer treatment summary forms [2] to help keep track of the cancer treatment you received and develop a survivorship care plan once treatment is completed.

People recovering from NHL are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and having recommended cancer screening tests. Talk with your doctor to develop a plan that is best for your needs. Moderate physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your doctor can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about the next steps to take in survivorship [3], including making positive lifestyle changes [4].

Find out more about common terms used after cancer treatment is complete [5].