<p>Three out of five cancer patients experience severe psychological distress warranting medical intervention, doctors in the city said, urging the inclusion of psycho-oncology in mainstream cancer treatment.</p>.<p>“Cancer brings tremendous psychological distress on patients and families,” said<br />Dr Brindha Sitaram, Group Director, and psycho-oncology service. She pointed to a nationwide study which showed that 92% of patients experienced psychological distress of varying magnitude.</p>.<p>“Psycho-oncology addresses the psychological issues and concerns of cancer patients and their families. It must be included in the mainstream cancer care,” Dr Brindha said.</p>.<p>On World Mental Health Day, HCG organised a scientific session to spread awareness and highlight the need for psychological assistance to cancer patients and their families.</p>.<p>Cancer patients have four times the risk of suicide than ordinary people, which could be managed by addressing their psychological needs, doctors said.</p>
<p>Three out of five cancer patients experience severe psychological distress warranting medical intervention, doctors in the city said, urging the inclusion of psycho-oncology in mainstream cancer treatment.</p>.<p>“Cancer brings tremendous psychological distress on patients and families,” said<br />Dr Brindha Sitaram, Group Director, and psycho-oncology service. She pointed to a nationwide study which showed that 92% of patients experienced psychological distress of varying magnitude.</p>.<p>“Psycho-oncology addresses the psychological issues and concerns of cancer patients and their families. It must be included in the mainstream cancer care,” Dr Brindha said.</p>.<p>On World Mental Health Day, HCG organised a scientific session to spread awareness and highlight the need for psychological assistance to cancer patients and their families.</p>.<p>Cancer patients have four times the risk of suicide than ordinary people, which could be managed by addressing their psychological needs, doctors said.</p>