Humanized care in cancer

Introduction: The humanization of patient care seeks to address their needs comprehensively, considering more than a clinical diagnosis. In oncology, part of this comprehensive care involves addressing the physical consequences of the process mainly through exercise. Objective: to analyse whether cancer patients were indeed receiving recommendations for physical exercise and whether their experience was. Methods: This is descriptive mixed research. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire. Subsequently, participants who met the selection criteria were selected to form a discussion group and collect qualitative data. Results: The quantitative results (n = 40) show that cancer survivors had felt humanization in the health field (77.5%) and in the physical exercise services provided (n = 30; 93.1%). The referral or advice to perform physical exercise came mainly from patient associations (n = 30; 33.3%) and nursing staff (n = 30; 30.0%). In addition, it was stated that the professionalism and empathy of the health and physical exercise professionals were the key points for the perception of humanization. Conclusion: cancer patients perceive that the cares received was humanized both in the medical field and in physical exercise services. However, it is necessary to increase the role of oncologist in referral to this type of services.