What is the focus of palliative care in oncology?

The focus of palliative care in oncology is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses, such as cancer. Palliative care is not aimed at curing the illness; rather, it emphasizes providing comprehensive support to help manage symptoms such as pain, nausea, fatigue, and emotional distress. This holistic approach prioritizes the patient’s comfort and dignity, ensuring that individuals can maintain the best possible quality of life regardless of the stage of their illness.

While research on new treatments can play an essential role in the broader context of oncology, it is not the primary purpose of palliative care. Psychological support is indeed a crucial component of palliative care, but it is only one part of a broader interdisciplinary strategy that also includes physical, social, and spiritual support. Ultimately, palliative care aims to address the multifaceted needs of patients and their families, enhancing overall well-being throughout the cancer journey.