Psycho-oncology from basic research to clinical practice

A tumor can usually be made visible with imaging techniques, but the thoughts and emotions of a cancer patient are not so easy to detect. Outsiders cannot always immediately recognize or empathize how these psychological responses change over the course of the disease. Now considered its own scientific discipline, psycho-oncology explores the psychological impact of cancer on patients and develops support options.

A cancer never affects just the patient, but has an impact on family and friends and transforms the relations of a patient to the world around him.

Various studies have shown that psychosocial support can improve the quality of life of those affected. The comprehensive care of cancer patients includes not only an effective medical therapy, but also psycho-social support.