Cure is a comprehensive research and advocacy organization that supports undergraduate students’ exploration of academic fields, strengthens graduate school preparations, builds academic portfolios and connects them with faculty mentors. CURE also provides funding support and creates opportunities for student research and scholarship on campus, in the community and beyond.
Medical terminology can be complex, especially when it comes to diagnoses like cancer. Often, patients wonder what it means to be “cured” and why their providers may sometimes hesitate to use that term.
It’s important to understand the distinction between cure and treatment, as it can impact patient outcomes and expectations. The advancements of medical technology have brought us closer to curing certain types of diseases. However, not all diseases are curable, and even the treatments that are deemed curative can have side effects that significantly impact patient quality of life.
A cure is something that resolves a medical condition, whether it’s a disease or a cosmetic issue such as baldness. A cure can be a medication, surgical procedure or lifestyle change that relieves symptoms and restores a previous state of health. Some diseases, such as autoimmune disorders or degenerative conditions, cannot be cured at present, but doctors are committed to improving the quality of patients’ lives and preventing complications by focusing on symptom control.