With ongoing advances in cancer therapies, patient survival rates are improving, shifting the focus of oncology toward holistic care that addresses the long-term needs of patients. Central to this approach is Supportive Care & Survivorship, which emphasizes managing side effects, promoting physical and emotional well-being, and ensuring continuity of care after active treatment. Supportive care encompasses interventions such as pain management, nutritional guidance, psychological counseling, and rehabilitation services, helping patients maintain functionality and quality of life during and after therapy. By integrating these services into standard treatment pathways, clinicians can reduce treatment-related complications, enhance adherence, and improve overall patient experience.
The role of Supportive Care & Survivorship extends beyond immediate symptom management to encompass long-term monitoring, secondary prevention, and strategies that support healthy living post-treatment. Survivorship programs often focus on detecting late effects of therapy, addressing psychosocial needs, and implementing lifestyle modifications to reduce recurrence risk. Advances in digital health platforms and patient-reported outcome measures are enabling more personalized and proactive follow-up care, while multidisciplinary teams provide guidance on rehabilitation, fertility preservation, and mental health support. By prioritizing supportive care and survivorship, oncology teams ensure that patients not only survive cancer but also thrive, achieving a balanced and meaningful quality of life throughout their recovery journey.