THE FUNDAMENTAL IMPORTANCE OF THE PHARMACIST IN THE ASSISTANCE AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE OF CANCER PATIENTS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The care of cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach, in which the pharmacist plays an essential role in ensuring safety, therapeutic efficacy and welcoming. This study, through an integrative literature review, analyzed publications from the last five years with the objective of understanding the contributions of pharmacists in comprehensive care for cancer patients. Ten articles were included that directly address the performance of this professional in clinical, educational and psychosocial contexts. The results show that the presence of the pharmacist in the health teams favors treatment adherence, reduces adverse events, optimizes the rational use of medications and strengthens the bond with the patient. In addition, the importance of continuing education and public policies that consolidate this action as an indispensable component in cancer care is highlighted. The study reinforces the need to expand the qualified presence of pharmacists, promoting interventions that combine technical knowledge with the humanization of care.