Psycho-oncology
Psycho-oncology
Psycho-oncology (pronunciation: /ˌsaɪkoʊ.ɒŋˈkɒlədʒi/) is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of cancer.
Etymology
The term "Psycho-oncology" is derived from the Greek words "psyche" meaning "mind" or "soul", "onkos" meaning "mass" or "tumor", and "logia" meaning "study".
Definition
Psycho-oncology is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of psychology and oncology. It addresses the two psychological dimensions of cancer: the psychological responses of patients to cancer at all stages of the disease, and that of their families and caretakers; and the psychological, behavioral and social factors that may influence the disease process.
Related Terms
- Psychosocial Oncology: A related field that focuses on the psychosocial aspects of cancer, including patient adjustment, coping mechanisms, and quality of life.
- Oncology: The study and treatment of tumors, including the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer.
- Psychology: The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context.
- Psychotherapy: A range of treatments that can help with mental health problems, emotional challenges, and some psychiatric disorders.
Importance
Psycho-oncology plays a crucial role in the care of cancer patients and their families. It helps in managing the psychological impact of cancer, improving the quality of life, and potentially even influencing the course of the disease.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Psycho-oncology
- Wikipedia's article - Psycho-oncology
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