Importance of Psycho-oncology for Tumors of the Peritoneum

Facing a life-threatening disease can lead to considerable psychosocial distress, regardless of tumor type or prognosis. Thus, modern tumor therapy views the continuous offer of psycho-oncological support as an indispensable part of comprehensive treatment. An increase of somatic and psychosocial impairments may otherwise lead to a manifestation of reactive mental disorders. In order to prevent these, highly distressed patients need to be identified early on and, preferably, a psycho-oncologist should be involved.