CANCER SURVIVORSHIP: THE NEED FOR COMPREHENSIVE CARE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSUMING AN ACTIVE ROLE

Abstract

Advances in the early detection and treatment of cancer have led to an increase in the number of people who have overcome the disease, reaching 5% of the current population in our country. As indicated by the Sociedad Española de Oncología Médica [Spanish Society of Medical Oncology], this situation involves new challenges that require, among other things, the identification of and attention to the quality of life and the psychosocial needs of this growing population. The objective of this article is to reflect on the importance of comprehensive, specialized, and multidisciplinary care, in which the survivor has a more active participation. However, previously, the debate on the concept of the survivor, and a description of the physical, psychological, and social impact of cancer and its treatment are described.

Keywords

• Cancer. Survivor. Emotional distress. Quality of life. Self-management