黑料网

The treatment of cancer typically involves multiple modalities, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. However, cancer diagnosis and treatment also have significant psychological and social consequences that affect patients' overall health and treatment adherence. Traditionally, surgical care has focused solely on the physical removal of tumors, while psychosocial care has been treated as a separate, secondary aspect of treatment. However, increasing evidence suggests that integrating psychosocial support with surgical treatment can have significant benefits, improving not only the patient's emotional well-being but also surgical outcomes and recovery [1]. Psychosocial care addresses the psychological and emotional responses to a cancer diagnosis, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Additionally, it supports the social aspects of care, such as improving family dynamics, fostering social support networks, and addressing financial or employment concerns. The integration of these elements with surgical care represents a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, ensuring that both the physical and emotional needs of patients are met [2].

Psychosocial Impact of Cancer and Surgery

A cancer diagnosis, especially when requiring surgery, is a life-altering event. Surgical procedures, particularly those for tumors in visible or functionally critical areas (e.g., head and neck, breast, and gastrointestinal cancers), can result in significant changes to a patient’s body image, functional abilities, and overall health. These changes often lead to psychological distress, including feelings of helplessness, fear of recurrence, and concerns about social stigma. Studies have shown that surgical patients with cancer experience higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to the general population. The stress of undergoing surgery combined with the uncertainty of cancer treatment can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Patients who do not receive adequate psychosocial support may struggle with treatment adherence, experience prolonged recovery, and report a diminished quality of life post-surgery [3]. Furthermore, negative psychological states can affect the immune system, making recovery more difficult. Addressing these psychological factors through integrated care can reduce distress, enhance emotional resilience, and improve recovery times. For example, patients who receive counseling or psychotherapy in conjunction with surgery often report lower levels of anxiety and depression, which in turn may positively influence their physical recovery and overall outcomes [4].

Benefits of Integrating Psychosocial and Surgical Care

The integration of psychosocial care into the surgical treatment process can have profound effects on cancer patients. First, addressing psychological needs can improve patient satisfaction and overall quality of life. Patients who feel supported emotionally are more likely to engage positively in their treatment plans, follow through with postoperative care instructions, and attend follow-up appointments. This level of engagement can lead to better health outcomes, including improved survival rates and a reduction in the likelihood of recurrence [5]. In addition to improving compliance, psychosocial support can enhance coping strategies. Supportive interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and group therapy have been shown to help patients manage the psychological burden of cancer. These interventions provide patients with tools to cope with anxiety, stress, and depression, thereby improving their emotional resilience during the cancer treatment journey [6]. This emotional resilience not only impacts recovery but also contributes to long-term well-being and survival. Moreover, psychosocial care can also address the practical concerns of cancer patients. Financial issues, employment challenges, and navigating the healthcare system can add stress and affect patients’ ability to focus on their treatment. Psychosocial care teams, including social workers and financial counselors, help patients navigate these challenges, reducing additional stress and improving overall satisfaction with care [7].

Model for Integrating Psychosocial Support

Several cancer centers have adopted integrated care models, where psychosocial support is included as part of the routine care plan. These models typically involve early screening for emotional distress at the time of diagnosis and before surgery, as well as continuous support throughout treatment and recovery. Psychosocial care is provided by a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including psychologists, social workers, nurses, and chaplains, who work together to address the needs of the patient from a holistic perspective [8]. The integration of psychosocial care begins with comprehensive assessment at the initial diagnosis. Patients are screened for common emotional distress symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and fear of recurrence. Once identified, the psychosocial team can intervene through counseling, education, and support services. Post-surgery, psychosocial care continues with follow-up visits to monitor mental health and provide additional support as needed. In addition to individual care, group therapy and peer support groups are effective strategies for integrating psychosocial support. These groups provide opportunities for patients to share experiences, express their feelings, and receive encouragement from others undergoing similar challenges. Peer support can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and improve emotional well-being during recovery [9].

Challenges and Barriers to Integration

Despite the growing recognition of the importance of integrated care, several barriers hinder its widespread implementation. One significant challenge is the lack of resources, including trained psychosocial care providers and funding for these services. Many hospitals and surgical centers may prioritize physical care over emotional support, leading to inadequate attention to psychosocial needs. Additionally, patients may be reluctant to seek psychosocial care due to stigma, cultural beliefs, or a lack of awareness about the benefits of emotional support [10]. Another barrier is the fragmentation of healthcare services. In many healthcare systems, psychosocial care is provided separately from surgical care, leading to disjointed care delivery. Ensuring seamless communication between surgical teams and psychosocial care providers is crucial for effective integration. This requires institutional commitment to providing multidisciplinary care and adequate training for healthcare professionals in recognizing and addressing emotional distress.

Conclusion

The integration of surgical and psychosocial care is essential for improving outcomes in cancer treatment. By addressing both the physical and emotional needs of patients, integrated care enhances the surgical experience, supports recovery, and improves long-term quality of life. Despite existing challenges, including resource limitations and fragmentation of services, the integration of psychosocial care represents a critical step toward comprehensive cancer care. As cancer treatment evolves, it is vital that psychosocial support becomes an integral component of the surgical care pathway to optimize overall patient outcomes.

1. Robert SC, Kenneth AB, Sylvia AL, Keith BC, James BD, et al. (2012).Thyroid22: 1104-1139.

, ,

2. Renuka IV, Bala SG, Aparna C, Ramana K, Sumalatha K, et al. (2012)Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 64: 305-311.

, ,

3. Dideban S, Abdollahi A, Meysamie A, Sedghi S, Shahriari M, et al. (2016)Iran J Pathol 11: 1-19.

,

4. Cooper DS, Doherty GM, Haugen BR, Hauger BR, Kloos RT, et al. (2009)Thyroid 19: 1167-214.

, ,

5. Petros P, Kristien B, Steve C, Carol E, Rhodri EM, et al. (2014).Clin Endocrinol. 81: 1-122.

, ,

6. Bryan HR, Erik AK, Keith BC, Gerard DM, Susan MJ, et al. (2016)Thyroid26: 1-133.

, ,

7. Cosimo D, Giorgio G, Livia L, Sebastiano F, Susan MJ, et al. (2018) .JAMA319: 914-924.

, ,

8. Pacini F (2012).Ann Oncol 21: 214-219.

, ,

9. Stephen GK, Ralph CR (2002)Clin. Nucl Med 27: 1-8.

,

10. Xiao-Min Y, David SF, Glen L, Herbert C, Rebecca SS, et al. 聽(2013). Thyroid23: 1263-1268.

, ,