The Chronicles of Comorbidity and Cancer Care

Care for patients with cancer is more challenging when they have concurrent, complex comorbidities. Risk assessment tools may help to enhance care assessment and predict poor clinical outcomes for these patients. This article provides information for the nurse caring for patients with cancer who have common comorbidities throughout the care continuum.

At a Glance

• Effective management of chronic comorbidities is paramount for optimal cancer treatment.
• Patients with cancer who are underinsured, uninsured, rural dwellers, or aged older than 65 years are disproportionately affected by their comorbidities.
• Coordination of care between primary care and the oncology care team is essential for managing comorbidities in patients with cancer.