[Psychological and social problems of tumor patients]

The fate of the tumor patient is, in the first instance, decided by the medical findings. The institution of treatment is thus determined by somatic problems. In addition to the impaired physical state, however, the emotive and social behavior of the tumor patient is also altered. The nature and quality of the information provided to the patient represents the cornerstone for a trusting relationship between the physician and patient. Such information should be presented gently and should be complete, and should cover more than one session of talks. Informative and explanatory talks should also be held with relatives in an early stage, and a social worker should be involved in good time. Since the physician's task is not solely to combat the tumor, but, rather to heal the patient, or, where this is not possible, to improve his/her condition, he must not only recognize the somatic problems, but also concern himself with the patient's psychological problems.