Does palliative care mean giving up?
No. Starting palliative care does not mean stopping cancer treatment, and it does not mean giving up on it. The National Cancer Institute says palliative care can be given with or without curative care. It may be provided at any point during cancer care, from diagnosis to the end of life. A person who gets palliative care may keep getting cancer treatment too.
Palliative care is meant to improve quality of life. It treats the whole person, not just the disease. It takes on symptoms and side effects as early as possible. It also covers emotional, social, spiritual, and practical concerns. Anyone can receive it, whatever their age or stage of disease.
Research supports it, too. NCI notes that studies have shown a benefit when palliative care is added to usual cancer care soon after a diagnosis of advanced cancer. It can improve quality of life and mood, and may even prolong survival. The American Society of Clinical Oncology recommends that all patients with advanced cancer receive palliative care.
Palliative care is also different from hospice. Hospice begins only when curative treatment is no longer the goal. Not sure what palliative care would mean for you? Ask your oncologist, or anyone else on your cancer care team.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: What Is Palliative Care? Comfort During Cancer
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