Who, what, where, when, and how: IPOS legacy and future directions

Abstract The International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) has played a pivotal role in the integration and advancement of psychosocial care within oncology. Cancer diagnosis is just one of many stressors for patients, but those with mental health disorders, especially depression or anxiety, struggle disproportionately. Despite evidence for empirically supported psychological treatments and supportive care initiatives, the global visibility of psychosocial oncology is low in countries having the greatest need. Forecasts of cancer incidence and mortality suggest that more than two-thirds of the world's cancers will occur in low-income and middle-income/resource countries (LMRCs) within the next 15 years. Having multiple economic, institutional, and governmental/political barriers, LMRCs have not benefited from extensive research and psychosocial care integration seen in higher resource countries. But importantly, IPOS can leverage its global position and network to lead and support the inclusion of psychosocial care into national LMRC cancer plans and facilitate within-country research development and mentorship. The future requires awareness and leadership to build a global psychosocial infrastructure to improve quality of life for all affected individuals.