El paciente oncológico en el balneario. Unidad de Cuidados Integrales para Personas Afectadas por Cáncer

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: The concept of "cancer survivor" has gained prominence thanks to the struggle of the associations of affected patients who demand new ways of addressing their health care needs. Taking the Comprehensive Care Program for people affected by cancer as a starting point (developed in the Hydrotherapy Centre "Spa LOIDA in A Coruña"), we decided to seize the opportunity provided by the facilities in Balneario de Guitiriz to design and implement a Comprehensive Care Unit for Cancer Survivors. Method: According to the American Cancer Society, cancer survivors are an increasing group of people exposed both to the risk of progression or relapse of their cancer disease and to develop secondary tumors or other co-morbidities (obesity, cardiovascular pathology, diabetes, aftermaths or late toxicities, among others) that affect not only their quality of life but also their survival. They should receive individualized care plans once their cancer treatment ends. Results: The Care Plan includes different functional areas with a global approach that tries to cover all the health care needs of the person concerned. Between June 2011- July 2014, 84 people have been treated in this unit, being breast cancer the predominant pathology. Conclusions: A Spa, if properly prepared, can become a Recovery Oriented Environment. In this case, it may be particularly useful for people affected by cancer.