Palliative Care and Rehabilitation of Cancer Patients

The prevailing model of medical care for patients with cancer emphasizes the curative efforts of medical technology toward the eradication of the disease. Yet the suffering of the patient as a result of both the disease and our efforts to treat it is often overlooked. If we are to improve the survival of patients with cancer, it will be through intensive research into the molecular underpinnings of the disease and clinical trials of new therapies. However, it is essential to recognize and address the suffering of cancer patients as they are being treated. It is the purpose of this book to illuminate and advance the prevention and treatment of suffering as part of the continuum of the care of patients with cancer. The text illustrates the broad range of issues encompassed by palliative care and rehabiliation of cancer patients. In essence, the driving goal of relieving suffering and improving quality of life links the two fields. As oncology matures as a field, there is more emphasis on taking care of patients as whole persons and maximizing their functions and abilities up to the last days of their lives.