Global psycho‐oncology in low middle‐income countries: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Objectives This Special Issue of Psycho‐Oncology is focused on challenges and opportunities in the provision of psychosocial care to patients in low and middle‐income countries (LMICs). The aim is to highlight global disparities and inequity in the provision of evidence‐based, culturally‐sensitive and timely psychosocial care and to showcase the work of researchers and practitioners to address this gap. We hope that this Issue will help to advance the psychological and social dimensions of cancer care in all parts of the world. Methods The focus of the papers is on research and clinical innovations in LMICs that target the psychological, social and cultural dimensions of cancer and on interventions to improve or maintain the psychological well‐being, social functioning and/or quality of life of those who are affected and their families. Results These papers draw attention to guidelines, resource needs, clinical service evaluation, emerging research and knowledge translation within LMICs that advance knowledge and implementation in the field of psycho‐oncology. Conclusions Innovations and advances in psycho‐oncology are emerging from LMICs to enhance the care of patients with cancer and their families in these regions and in all parts of the world. A sustained global initiative is now needed to ensure that guidelines for such care are routinely included in global, national and local cancer control plans and that essential resources and attention are directed to implement them.