Challenges of precision oncology for patients and oncologists

Background Precision oncology is associated with high hopes of therapeutic success for affected patients. The data available on the clinical benefit of precision oncology approaches is inconsistent and the complexity of the subject matter places high demands on patient understanding. The management of these patients poses new challenges to the treating oncologists. Objectives This article reports on the current status of psycho-oncological research on the psychosocial burden of this patient group, their information needs, and the challenges for oncologists in connection with molecular diagnostics. Methods The basis for this was provided by a literature review and the results of our own investigations. Results Patients show high psychological stress and at the same time high hopes for molecular diagnostics. Transparent and continuous physician-patient communication, which includes patient-oriented education and consultation, is necessary to ensure informed consent in the context of precision oncology. Conclusion Psychological stress in patients in connection with precision oncology should be systematically investigated and identified at an early stage. These can be mitigated by specific physician-patient communication. One of the tasks of psycho-oncology today is to provide supporting measures.