What is the primary goal of palliative care in the oncology setting?

The primary goal of palliative care in the oncology setting is to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients who are facing serious illnesses, such as cancer. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from various symptoms associated with the disease and its treatment, including pain, nausea, fatigue, and emotional distress. It is an approach that emphasizes comfort and support, rather than trying to cure the disease.

This patient-centered care model not only addresses physical symptoms but also takes into account psychosocial needs, helping patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical aspects of living with cancer. Unlike curative treatments that aim to eradicate the disease, palliative care can be provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments and is appropriate at any stage of illness.

The choice that addresses curative treatment is not aligned with the palliative philosophy, as palliative care does not focus specifically on curing the illness. Monitoring tumor growth and facilitating surgical options do not encapsulate the comprehensive approach of palliative care, which is overarching in symptom management and quality of life enhancement.