• 9/13/2007
  • Memphis, TN
  • staff
  • CancerConsultants.com

According to an article recently published in Annals of Oncology, over half of patients diagnosed with cancer experience pain, despite guidelines that have been adopted for the reduction of pain. Patients diagnosed with advanced or terminal cancer experience an even higher rate of pain, with those diagnosed with head and neck cancer experiencing the most pain.

Pain is one of the most feared consequences associated with the diagnosis of cancer. As cancer becomes more advanced, it grows and spreads throughout the body. This growth crowds organs, tissues, vasculature (veins, arteries, or capillaries), lymph nodes (part of the immune system), and/or bones. The cancerous growth itself can cause pain as it places pressure on nerves and it can interfere with normal biological processes, causing a blockage and/or buildup of fluid or other components.

Pain has been recognized as an important focus of treatment among cancer patients. Guidelines have been established by healthcare panels for the treatment of pain, depending upon severity and other existing medical conditions of the patient. Often, patients with terminal cancer remain on pain medications throughout the duration of treatment once their disease has become advanced. In fact, controlling pain is one of the top priorities in end-of-life patient care. However, data regarding the prevalence of pain among patients with cancer remain limited.

Researchers from the Netherlands recently conducted a clinical study to review data regarding the prevalence of pain among cancer patients. The data included a literature review regarding pain in different disease stages and different types of cancer. Fifty-two studies were included in this analysis.

* 33% of patients who had undergone curative therapy for their cancer reported pain following therapy.

* 59% of patients undergoing treatment for cancer reported pain.

* 64% of patients with advanced, metastatic, or terminal cancer reported pain.

* Patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer reported the greatest incidence of pain.

* Over half of all patients diagnosed with cancer reported overall pain, with more than one-third grading their pain as moderate or severe.

The researchers concluded that, despite guidelines to control pain in cancer patients, “cancer pain still is a major problem.” Patients diagnosed with cancer who are experiencing pain should speak with their healthcare provider regarding the prevention or control of pain.

Reference:
Van den Beuken-van Everdingen MHJ, de Rijke J, Kessels A, et al. Prevalence of pain in patients with cancer: a systematic review of the past 40 years. Annals of Oncology. 2007; 18; 1437-1449.