A comprehensive review of European clinical practice guidelines on psychological and cognitive assessment and support for cancer patients and their families.

PURPOSE: Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide and, consequently, awareness of the psychological and cognitive challenges faced by patients and their families increases. To address these needs, psycho-oncological Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) and recommendations have been progressively developed. This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of existing European CPGs and recommendations regarding psychological and cognitive assessment and support for cancer patients and their families.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted on PsycINFO, Scopus, and Medline (PubMed interface), supplemented by a secondary search strategy. Only CPGs published in the last 15 years were considered. Data extraction focused on guideline characteristics, target population, symptoms addressed, assessment tools, recommended interventions, and quality appraisal.

RESULTS

After the screening phase, 38 publications were included. An increase in the publication of psycho-oncological guidelines emerges across European countries and the rise of a multidisciplinary approach. Most CPGs address adult cancer patients and prioritise distress, anxiety, and depression. Common screening tools are the Distress Thermometer and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Concerning interventions, psychosocial support and counselling are the most recommended forms of support, while digital and family-centred interventions are scarcely mentioned. Looking at the level of evidence and strength of recommendations, heterogeneity was observed across CPGs.

CONCLUSION

The rise of CPGs represents an effort to integrate psycho-oncological assistance into cancer care in Europe, but gaps in inclusivity, protocols, and implementation remain. Future guidelines should address underserved groups, enhance methodological quality of the CPGs, and include digital and family-centred interventions to improve equitable access and holistic care.