Optimal care of the patient with cancer incorporates effective physical and psychological care.There are currently several clinical practice guidelines available documenting evidence-based information and treatment recommendations for the physical care of people with cancer, many of which are also available in consumer versions. Some of these treatment guidelines include chapters devoted to psychosocial care.
People with cancer suffer significant emotional morbidity. In addition to the distress, fear and grief consequent upon diagnosis, up to 30% experience clinically significant anxiety disorders and prevalence rates for depression range from 20%-35%.These disorders have a major impact on the person’s functioning, and that of their family, as well as posing a major occupational and economic burden. In addition, such disorders adversely impact on capacity to cope with disease burden, and may reduce patient adherence to recommended treatments.
People with cancer continue to request more information in order to better understand their cancer, its impact on them and their family, and the treatment options available. Patients are only able to participate as they wish in clinical decision-making if they have access to appropriate information. For people from rural areas, and those from particular cultural groups, access to such information and services represents a major unmet need.
In an era of evidence-based medical practice, health professionals desire accurate information about the emotional impact of cancer on patients and their families, and clear recommendations about strategies to reduce the emotional burden.The specialist medical Colleges also are increasingly endorsing the need for enhanced communication skills training for members, to improve the provision of information and emotional support for patients and their families.
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