Psychooncology: The physical, psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of cancer

Psychooncology is a specialized field that focuses on the interplay between the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of cancer, with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for both patients and their families. This chapter delves into the diverse roles played by psychooncology in cancer care, particularly in providing psychosocial support throughout the various stages of the disease. A key focus is on the distinct role of the psychooncologist, who blends multiple therapeutic techniques and works closely with oncologists to address the complex psychological challenges faced by cancer patients. The Cancer Empowerment Model is introduced, offering a holistic approach to improving patients’ psychological wellbeing by fostering resilience and adaptive coping mechanisms. The chapter also explores the significance of culturally sensitive care, emphasizing how interventions must be tailored to a patient’s personal values, cultural background, and family dynamics. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the concept of posttraumatic growth (PTG) and discusses strategies to promote cancer empowerment, helping patients find strength during their treatment. In addition, it examines how digital tools, including teletherapy and AI-driven assessments, are transforming psychooncology, improving accessibility to care and enabling more precise, personalized interventions. This chapter offers a comprehensive exploration of psychooncology, its current practices, and its future directions.