Scan Anxiety Is Real — And It Matters

Looking to find out what Scanxiety is? Read this blog below to find out!

Written By: Taylor Gibbs

Scanxiety- The stress and fear around medical scans is a very real part of the cancer experience. Many patients feel a rising sense of worry in the days or weeks before a scan, with racing thoughts like What if it’s back? What if the treatment isn’t working? It can be hard to sleep, focus, or feel fully present, and life often feels “on pause” until the results come in.

Why It Happens

● Scans can dramatically change a patient’s treatment plan—or confirm recurrence

● The uncertainty is emotionally exhausting

● Even long-term survivors can experience it; it doesn’t automatically get easier over time

Why It’s Important to Talk About

● Many patients feel pressure to “stay positive,” making scanxiety harder to admit

● Naming it helps normalize the experience—there’s no shame in feeling scared

● Emotional health is a vital part of cancer care“Everyone's reaction is different. Be open and forthcoming with your care team so they can treat your side effects as well.”

The Bottom Line

Scanxiety doesn’t mean someone is weak, it means they’re human. When a single appointment can influence the direction of your health, your plans, and your sense of safety, it’s natural for emotions to run high. Acknowledging scanxiety isn’t giving in to fear; it’s recognizing the emotional impact that cancer has long after the initial diagnosis.

Talking about it helps it all feel less isolated and helps loved ones understand what those days of waiting truly feel like. It opens the door to compassion, patience, and support, reminding everyone that cancer care isn’t just about treating the body, but caring for the mind and heart as well. “It does get better over time even though you can’t see it then”- Mckenna Avery Co-Host for “What I Wish I Knew”.