Opinion

Celebrating the Inaugural World Psycho-Oncology Day – Adrian Pogacian

Adrian Pogacian/LinkedIn

Apr 9, 2025, 08:17

Celebrating the Inaugural World Psycho-Oncology Day – Adrian Pogacian

“With gratitude and enthusiasm, the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS), announced the establishment of World Psycho-Oncology Day (WPOD), to be celebrated annually on April 9, beginning in 2025!

It is of major importance this initiative that strengthens and supports the efforts of all those involved daily in this field of expertise defined by struggles, challenges and hope. Although, we are physicians, nurses, social workers, medical doctors or psychologists and we consider ourselves healers, it is essential that patients need to be heard and must be understood.

Once upon a time, Dr. Jimmie Holland, changed the way we, as specialists, understand and address the psychosocial dimensions of cancer care. Therefore, for the first time the patient’s psychological and emotional needs began to be addressed to overcome their tears and fears. Consequently, interest in the psychological, social, and behavioral issues of cancer has led to the definition of psycho-oncology as a subspecialty within oncology and/or psychology.

As Wendy Lam, RN, PhD, FFPH, acting president of International Psycho-Oncology Society states, World Psycho-Oncology Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of the psychological and emotional impact of cancer. Moreover, it will serve as a platform to:

Encouraging psychoeducation about the importance of psychosocial support throughout the cancer care trajectory
Promoting the integration of psycho-oncology into national cancer care guidelines. For instance, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is the European Union’s response to these needs and reflects a political commitment to take action against cancer.
Celebrating research progress and technological advancement
Highlighting areas that require further development

World Psycho-Oncology Day should and could become the day when community engagement, joint local and global initiatives, advocacy efforts and social media campaigns will raise awareness of this essential area of expertise in oncology for patients and their caregivers.

From a personal perspective, the path to psycho-oncology is both demanding and rewarding. My relentless persistence comes from the need to make a difference in my local community, serving the needs of cancer patients and inspiring the next generation of psycho-oncologists.

In conclusion, from the first statement that cancer equals death, more than half a century ago, to the trials, studies, and multidisciplinary approach to oncological disease today, it has been a long and demanding journey. Nevertheless, what really matters is the empathy with the patient and the interpersonal connection that occur during its treatment!”

Adrian Pogacian