Top oncologists say everyone with advanced cancer needs early palliative care. Here are 6 things to know By 2025, 693,000 Americans will have several forms of advanced cancer. This year, the American Society of Clinical Oncology -- the world's leading oncology organization -- recommended palliative care for everyone with advanced cancer at the time of diagnosis and while receiving treatment. Palliative care clinicians manage cancer-related symptoms and side effects from treatment, while addressing quality of life and stress for patients and families. By next year, 693,000 people in the United States will have advanced breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, bladder, or skin cancer. Typically, advanced cancers spread to other parts of the body, and may cause symptoms or are difficult to cure. Oncologists said starting palliative care when a diagnosis is made may make it easier for patients to stay on their treatment course. "What I'm really excited to see is that these guidelines are taking a step back and thinking about [palliative care] from the time of diagnosis," Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society and an associate professor at Duke University specializing in oncology and palliative care, told ABC News. "It should particularly be used in areas to help people stay on treatment, such as in clinical trials or hematologic malignancies. "Here are six things to know about palliative care: 1. Palliative care can help you live better and longer 2. Palliative care puts you in control of your care 3. Palliative care supports you and those who matter most 4. Palliative care increases your time at home or where you want to be 5. Palliative care isn't just for people with cancer 6. Palliative care is no longer something that's "nice to have. It's a have to have," said Kamal. Lindsey Ulin, MD is an internal medicine resident at Brigham and Women's Hospital and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit.
