Primary Care of Patients With Cancer

Family physicians are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive care of patients across the cancer care continuum. Their longitudinal relationship with patients allows them to address cancer-related issues in addition to chronic disease management, preventive care, psychosocial needs, and caregiver support. Maintaining awareness of a patient's cancer diagnosis and related treatment is essential for evaluating new symptoms, recognizing treatment-related adverse effects, and identifying potential oncologic emergencies. Cancer treatment often complicates management of existing chronic illnesses, requiring close monitoring, medication adjustments, and attention to lifestyle factors and nutritional status. Goals of diabetes management include optimal glycemic control to prevent delays in oncologic surgeries, impaired wound healing, and difficulty in managing chemotherapy. Screening for cardiovascular disease should be performed for patients with cancer and known cardiac risk factors or oncologic treatment exposures known to cause cardiac complications. Consistent physical activity is recommended during cancer treatment to improve quality of life. Family physicians frequently serve as the first point of contact when patients experience adverse effects or complications from cancer therapies, many of which can affect physical function, mental health, and quality of life. Effective coordination between oncologists and family physicians is essential to ensure patients receive holistic, person-centered care.