PALLIATIVE CARE IN ONCOLOGY: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH, THE NATIONAL PALLIATIVE CARE POLICY, AND LIMITATIONS OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRACTICE WITHIN THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM

Abstract

Cancer palliative care is a fundamental healthcare approach aimed at improving the quality of life of patients with cancer and their families, particularly in the context of life-threatening illnesses. This study aimed to analyze the main aspects related to palliative care in oncology, including therapeutic approaches, multidisciplinary teamwork, family participation, the National Palliative Care Policy, and the limitations of pharmaceutical care within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). This is a narrative literature review with a descriptive and qualitative approach, conducted through searches in the SciELO, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library (BVS) databases, as well as official documents from the National Cancer Institute and the Ministry of Health. The findings showed that palliative care should be implemented early and integrated into oncological treatment, contributing to symptom control, reduction of emotional distress, and improvement of quality of life. The analysis also highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary teams and family involvement as essential components of comprehensive care. Regarding public policies, the National Palliative Care Policy was identified as a significant advancement in the organization of healthcare services within SUS, although challenges remain concerning professional training, expansion of service availability, and integration of healthcare networks. Furthermore, pharmacists were found to play an important role in ensuring medication safety; however, their participation in palliative care teams remains limited. It is concluded that strengthening public policies, multidisciplinary care, and pharmaceutical services is essential for consolidating palliative care in oncology.