Cuidados paliativos en el paciente oncológico

Cancer is a major health problem worldwide. In fact, 50% of the patients diagnosed with cancer die due to its cause. In Spain, cancer represents the second cause of death. Approximately, 50%-60% of patients die after an advanced disease, and therefore are eligible to receive palliative care. Palliative care aims to achieve a better quality of life of patients and their families, providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms. Palliative care should be given early and be fully integrated in the management of the disease since initial diagnosis of a life-threatening disease. Patients with advanced disease encompass complex and heterogeneous care interventions, including several health-care and social resources. Issuing protocols on key aspects of supportive and palliative care for patients included in palliative-care programs are aimed to detect patients' needs and to establish an overall interdisciplinary care plan.