From the Guidelines
Cancer patients should have comprehensive and multidisciplinary care that addresses both their medical and emotional needs, including appropriate medical treatments, pain management, nutritional support, psychological counseling, and palliative care to improve quality of life and reduce morbidity and mortality. This approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study, which emphasizes the importance of integrating palliative care into standard oncology care early in the course of illness for patients with metastatic cancer and/or high symptom burden 1. The study found that early introduction of palliative care can not only improve quality of life for patients with advanced cancer but also improve survival.
Some key components of comprehensive care for cancer patients include:
- Appropriate medical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as determined by their oncologist based on their specific cancer type, stage, and personal health factors
- Pain management, which may include medications like acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or opioids when necessary
- Nutritional support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life
- Psychological counseling to address emotional and psychological needs
- Palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, which should be provided simultaneously with disease-modifying therapy from diagnosis 1
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor treatment effectiveness and manage side effects
- Support systems including family involvement, support groups, and social services to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer
The ASCO panel stated that there is substantial evidence to show that “palliative care – when combined with standard cancer care or as the main focus of care – leads to better patient and caregiver outcomes” 1. Additionally, a secondary analysis of a study found that patients receiving early palliative care were less likely to receive chemotherapy in the last 60 days of life, probably because they had a more accurate understanding of their prognosis, which impacted decisions about their care 1.
Optimal treatment of cancer should be provided by a team that includes multidisciplinary medical expertise composed of medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and palliative care experts, as well as oncology nurses and social workers 1. Patients should also have access to counseling for their psychosocial, nutritional, and other needs. Clear, consistent, and empathetic communication with patient and family about the natural history of the cancer and its prognosis is at the core of effective palliative care 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Importance of Appropriate Treatment for Cancer Patients
- Cancer patients should receive appropriate treatment to improve their quality of life, as supported by studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- A multidisciplinary approach to cancer care is beneficial, as it can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved decision-making processes 4, 6
- Supportive care should be patient-centered, with good communication and a focus on physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being 5
Benefits of Multidisciplinary Care
- Multidisciplinary tumor boards can improve adherence to clinical guidelines and treatment outcomes 6
- A team-based approach can provide comprehensive care, addressing the various needs of cancer patients, including nutrition, psychological support, and pain management 4
- The use of technology, such as eHealth and mHealth capabilities, can enhance integrated care and support patient-centered care 5
Needs of Cancer Patients
- Cancer patients have diverse needs, including physical, psychological, social, and spiritual support 2, 3, 4
- Patients should be informed about treatment options, side effects, and self-care strategies to reduce treatment-related concerns 3
- Early introduction of supportive care can lead to better quality of life and potential survival benefits 4