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Saldivia-Siracusa C, Dos Santos ES, González-Arriagada WA, Prado-Ribeiro AC, Brandão TB, Owosho A, Lopes MA, Epstein JB, Santos-Silva AR. Conspiracy of Silence in Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis: A Scoping Review. Dent J (Basel) 2024; 12:214. [PMID: 39057001 PMCID: PMC11276277 DOI: 10.3390/dj12070214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer disclosure represents a complex healthcare dynamic. Physicians or caregivers may be prompted to withhold diagnosis information from patients. This study aims to comprehensively map and synthesize available evidence about diagnosis nondisclosure regarding head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, a scoping review was conducted across major databases without period restriction, yielding 9238 publications. After screening and selection, a descriptive synthesis was conducted. Sixteen studies were included, primarily conducted in academic settings (75%) from Europe and Asia, with a total population of 662 patients predominantly diagnosed with brain, oral, pharyngeal, or laryngeal tumors. Remarkably, 22.51% of patients were unaware of their diagnosis. Although physicians were the main source of diagnostic information (35%), they reported to often use vague terms to convey malignancy. Additionally, 13.29% of patients were aware of their diagnosis from sources other than doctors or caregivers. Caregivers (55%) supported diagnosis concealment, and physicians tended to respect family wishes. A high diagnosis-to-death interval, education, and age significantly influenced diagnosis disclosure. HNC patients expressed a desire for personalized open communication. Multiple factors influenced the decision on diagnosis disclosure. Current evidence on this topic varies significantly, and there is limited research on the consequences of nondisclosure. These findings reflect the underestimation of the patients' outlook in the diagnosis process and highlight the need for further research, aiming to establish open communication and patient autonomy during the oncological journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Saldivia-Siracusa
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13414-903, Brazil; (C.S.-S.); (E.S.D.S.); (A.C.P.-R.); (M.A.L.)
| | - Erison Santana Dos Santos
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13414-903, Brazil; (C.S.-S.); (E.S.D.S.); (A.C.P.-R.); (M.A.L.)
| | | | - Ana Carolina Prado-Ribeiro
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13414-903, Brazil; (C.S.-S.); (E.S.D.S.); (A.C.P.-R.); (M.A.L.)
- Oral Medicine Service, Sírio Libanês Hospital, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil
| | - Thaís Bianca Brandão
- Dental Oncology Service, São Paulo State Cancer Institute (ICESP-FMUSP), São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil;
| | - Adepitan Owosho
- Departments of Diagnostic Sciences, Department of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery and Bioscience Research, College of Dentistry, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA;
| | - Marcio Ajudarte Lopes
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13414-903, Brazil; (C.S.-S.); (E.S.D.S.); (A.C.P.-R.); (M.A.L.)
| | - Joel B. Epstein
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA;
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Alan Roger Santos-Silva
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13414-903, Brazil; (C.S.-S.); (E.S.D.S.); (A.C.P.-R.); (M.A.L.)
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Naghavi A, Salimi S, Rief W, von Blanckenburg P. Communication with cancer patients: the perspective of caregivers versus non-caregivers in Iran. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1239410. [PMID: 38022919 PMCID: PMC10652745 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1239410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study investigated and compared the attitudes of healthy Iranian individuals (n = 302) in forms of two groups of caregivers and non-caregivers of cancer patients about the communication with cancer patients, and their personal wish to know the diagnosis if they ever had cancer. In addition, this study aimed to identify how many participants in the caregivers' group had spoken with their family member affected by cancer about their illness. Methods Caregivers (50.7%) and non-caregivers (49.3%) responded to two questionnaires regarding their general attitudes about communicating with cancer patients, and their willingness to know about their illness if they had cancer. Results The majority of participants (92.8%), especially in the caregiver group, agreed with the right of patients to know the diagnosis and prognosis, and also wished to know if they ever had cancer. However, around 64% of caregivers never talked about cancer with the affected patients. Conclusion Participants generally believed that patients have the right to know the diagnosis and prognosis, and they also wished to know if they ever had cancer. However, in reality many cancer patients are not included in communication sessions in Iran. Health professionals should focus on how to create a balance between medical bioethics with cultural influences on communication with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Naghavi
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Salimi
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Winfried Rief
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pia von Blanckenburg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Liu X, Lu X, Zhou W, Hahne J, Khoshnood K, Shi X, Zhong Y, Wang X. Informed consent in cancer clinical drug trials in China: a narrative literature review of the past 20 years. Trials 2023; 24:445. [PMID: 37415240 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07482-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the number of cancer clinical drug trials is increasing rapidly in China, issues concerning informed consent in this research context are understudied. By performing a narrative literature review, we aim to describe the current situation and identify the most salient challenges affecting informed consent in cancer clinical drug trials among adult patients in China since 2000. METHODS We searched Web of Science (WOS), PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library databases, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Biomedical Literature Database on Disc (CBMdisc), Chinese Scientific Journals Fulltext Database (CQVIP), and WANFANG Data to identify relevant publications since 2000. Data were extracted by three reviewers on six items pertaining to study type, theme, and challenges. RESULTS We identified 37 unique manuscripts, from which 19 full texts were obtained and six were included in the review. All six studies were published in Chinese journals, and the publication years of the majority (five out of six) of the studies were 2015 or later. The authors of the six studies were all from clinical departments or ethical review committees at five hospitals in China. All of the included publications were descriptive studies. Publications reported challenges related to the following aspects of informed consent: information disclosure, patient understanding, voluntariness, authorization, and procedural steps. CONCLUSION Based on our analysis of publications over the past two decades, there are currently frequent challenges related to various aspects of informed consent in cancer clinical drug trials in China. Furthermore, only a limited number of high-quality research studies on informed consent in cancer clinical drug trials in China are available to date. Efforts toward improvement of informed consent practice, in the form of guidelines or further regulations in China, should draw on both experience from other countries and high-quality local evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Liu
- Medical Ethics Committee, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoran Lu
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhou
- School of Public Administration, Hunan University, Changsha, 410023, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jessica Hahne
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kaveh Khoshnood
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Xiaoting Shi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Yuqiong Zhong
- School of Humanities, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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Chen C, Cheng G, Chen X, Yu L. Information disclosure to cancer patients in Mainland China: A meta-analysis. Psychooncology 2023; 32:342-355. [PMID: 36582008 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to systematically examine Chinese cancer patients' and families' preferences for information disclosure to the patient, patient awareness, and predictors of patient awareness. METHODS The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Web of Science, Scopus, Proquest, Taylor & Francis Online, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched in April 2022 and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database in July 2022 for quantitative studies. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality assessment. RESULTS A total of 22 studies were included, and the average quality score was 0.65/1. Meta-analyses showed that 89.6% and 81.8% of cancer patients wanted to know their diagnosis and prognosis, respectively. Meanwhile, 50.0% and 32.4% of families prefer diagnosis disclosure and prognosis disclosure to the patient, respectively. Significantly more patients than families favored disclosure to the patient. In reality, only 59.3% of cancer patients know their diagnosis, and 19.9% know their prognosis. For predictors, while patients' gender, cancer type (breast cancer or not), treatment method (operation or other), or complications (yes or no) do not influence diagnosis awareness, being younger, being married, having higher educational attainment, having early-stage rather than late-stage cancer, and being in a higher-grade hospital all predict better chances of knowing a diagnosis. No study explored predictors of patients' prognosis awareness. The findings did not vary according to publication time or sample size. CONCLUSIONS Chinese cancer patients are eager to know their diagnosis and prognosis, but families are hesitant about disclosure to the patient, and patients' awareness is low. While cultural, legal, and medical backgrounds lay the foundation for information disclosure in Mainland China, case-by-case practical factors also make a difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuqian Chen
- Department of Medical Humanities, School of Humanities, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guobin Cheng
- Department of Medical Humanities, School of Humanities, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Department of Philosophy and Science, School of Humanities, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingling Yu
- Department of Philosophy and Science, School of Humanities, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Joad ASK, Hota A, Agarwal P, Patel K, Patel K, Puri J, Shin S. “I want to live, but …” the desire to live and its physical, psychological, spiritual, and social factors among advanced cancer patients: evidence from the APPROACH study in India. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:153. [PMID: 36045352 PMCID: PMC9429624 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01041-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The limited access to palliative care resources along with the social stigma around cancer largely explains the poor quality of life (QoL) of Indian advanced cancer patients. As advanced cancer patients with poor QoL often harbour a desire for hastened death (DHD), it is imperative to understand factors affecting DHD, or the desire to live (DTL) among advanced cancer patients in India. We aim to examine the relationship between DTL and physical, psychological, spiritual, and social factors measuring patients’ QoL alongside their awareness of their late cancer stage.
Methods
We surveyed 200 patients from a tertiary cancer hospital in India to collect their DTL, awareness of cancer stage, demographic characteristics, and standardized measures for patients’ QoL. We used a linear probability regression model to quantify the association between these factors and patients’ DTL among the final sample of 192 patients with no missing information for the variables of interest.
Results
Among the various domains affecting cancer patients’ QoL, we found that the pain severity score (ranging from 0 to 10) and psychological distress score (ranging from 0 to 42) are negatively associated with the DTL. One point increase in each score reduced the DTL by 2.2% (p < 0.05) and 0.7% (p < 0.05), respectively. Our results also showed that patients whose perceived socio-economic status (SES) is poor have a 16% (p < 0.05) lower probability of DTL, compared to those with higher SES (lower middle class, upper middle class, and wealthy). Controlling for caste, religion, gender, age, marital status and years of education, we found psychological distress is statistically higher among patients belonging to this bottom SES.
Conclusions
We found that pain severity, psychological distress and perceived low SES are negatively associated with the desire to live in advanced cancer patients. Future research should focus on developing interventions to improve physical pain and psychological distress, particularly for patients who are socially and economically disadvantaged.
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Wang S, Lu Q, Ye Z, Liu F, Yang N, Pan Z, Li Y, Li L. Effects of a smartphone application named "Shared Decision Making Assistant" for informed patients with primary liver cancer in decision-making in China: a quasi-experimental study. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:145. [PMID: 35641979 PMCID: PMC9152304 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01883-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well known that decision aids can promote patients' participation in decision-making, increase patients' decision preparation and reduce decision conflict. The goal of this study is to explore the effects of a "Shared Decision Making Assistant" smartphone application on the decision-making of informed patients with Primary Liver Cancer (PLC) in China. METHODS In this quasi-experimental study , 180 PLC patients who knew their real diagnoses in the Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China, from April to December 2020 were randomly assigned to a control group and an intervention group. Patients in the intervention group had an access to the "Shared Decision Making Assistant" application in decision-making, which included primary liver cancer treatment knowledge, decision aids path, continuing nursing care video clips, latest information browsing and interactive platforms. The study used decision conflict scores to evaluate the primary outcome, and the data of decision preparation, decision self-efficacy, decision satisfaction and regret, and knowledge of PLC treatment for secondary outcomes. Then, the data were entered into the SPSS 22.0 software and were analyzed by descriptive statistics, Chi-square, independent t-test, paired t-test, and Mann-Whitney tests. RESULTS Informed PLC patients in the intervention group ("SDM Assistant" group) had significantly lower decision conflict scores than those in the control group. ("SDM Assistant" group: 16.89 ± 8.80 vs. control group: 26.75 ± 9.79, P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the decision preparation score (80.73 ± 8.16), decision self-efficacy score (87.75 ± 6.87), decision satisfaction score (25.68 ± 2.10) and knowledge of PLC treatment score (14.52 ± 1.91) of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group patients (P < 0.05) at the end of the study. However, the scores of "regret of decision making" between the two groups had no statistical significance after 3 months (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Access to the "Shared Decision Making Assistant" enhanced the PLC patients' performance and improved their quality of decision making in the areas of decision conflict, decision preparation, decision self-efficacy, knowledge of PLC treatment and satisfaction. Therefore, we recommend promoting and updating the "Shared Decision Making Assistant" in clinical employment and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitong Wang
- Department of Nursing, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 700 Moyu Road, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China.,Officers' Ward, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingwen Lu
- Department of Nursing, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 700 Moyu Road, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixia Ye
- Department of Nursing, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 700 Moyu Road, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Nursing, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 700 Moyu Road, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of No. 5 Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeya Pan
- Department of No. 3 Hepatobiliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Nursing, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 700 Moyu Road, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201805, People's Republic of China.
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Sutar R, Chaudhary P. Prognostic disclosure in cancer care: a systematic literature review. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221101077. [PMID: 35693193 PMCID: PMC9178750 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221101077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Collusion in cancer care is the diplomatic concealment of information between a triad of the health care professional (HCP), patient, and caregiver. Free and expressive communication is determined by multiple factors, which establishes a healthy balance between ‘patient-centric’ and ‘family-centric’ decision making. The lack of a universal approach to prognostic disclosure techniques emphasizes the need for a systematic review of contemporary practice. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted till June 2020 using themes based on cancer, communication, prognostic disclosure, and collusion by using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Fifty-three studies involving 10,569 subjects were studied for their utility on prognostic disclosure using different communication methods and interfaces. Twenty-three studies used a face-to-face interview with subjects while in-person telephonic interviews were conducted in two studies, 16 studies implicated semi-structured questionnaires, and 6 studies mentioned the development of a new technique/tool for disclosure. The duration of a session for prognosis-disclosure ranged from 22 min to 1 h. The involvement of palliative care specialists and mental health professionals was limited during the disclosure of the prognosis. Conclusion: The findings of the review indicate that patients in cancer care are aware of their diagnosis and to a certain extent of prognosis despite nondisclosure by their family members and treating teams. This review emphasizes the assessment of ‘disclosure wishes’ among patients and caregivers in separate interviews rather than simply relying on one specific method of interviewing. The nonconfrontational approach and training among HCPs are of utmost importance to build therapeutic resilience among the treating team involved in cancer care. Since many factors such as family wishes, cultural dissonance, medical model, and patient perception could become barriers to prognostic disclosure, there is a need to develop a universal approach to prognostic disclosure and handling associated collusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Sutar
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal 462020, India
| | - Pooja Chaudhary
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal, Bhopal, India
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Cheng Q, Duan Y, Zheng H, Xu X, Khan K, Xie J, Chen Y. Knowledge, attitudes and preferences of palliative and end-of-life care among patients with cancer in mainland China: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e051735. [PMID: 34588259 PMCID: PMC8479948 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of patients with cancer of palliative care and their preferences regarding end-of-life care in mainland China. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. SETTING This study was conducted in a tertiary cancer hospital. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred forty-seven patients with cancer were recruited and consented to fill out the questionnaires. OUTCOME MEASURES The participants' knowledge and attitudes of palliative care and their preferences of end-of-life care involving place of care, place of death, truth disclosure and treatments during end-of-life were measured. RESULTS In total, 239 questionnaires were valid. The vast majority of patients with cancer (81.2%) had never heard about palliative care or related policies, and only a few of them (5.8%) had somewhat or totally understanding of palliative care. Most participants (75.3%) had supportive attitudes towards palliative care. In terms of preferences for end-of-life care, most patients with cancer preferred to be cared for at home at the end of their life and to die at home. The majority of patients with cancer (65.7%) wanted to know their diagnosis or prognosis of the disease, regardless of the type of disease. More than half of the participants (54%) wished to improve their quality of life rather than prolong their life expectancy. More than a third of the patients with cancer preferred to entrust a family member or agent to sign medical decision agreements for them. CONCLUSIONS It is essential for healthcare providers to improve the understanding of patients with cancer of palliative care and be aware of the end-of-life care preferences of patients with cancer, in order to provide support that enables patients with cancer to receive end-of-life care that is accordant with their wishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinqin Cheng
- Pain Management Department, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yinglong Duan
- Emergency Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongling Zheng
- Xiang Ya Nursing School of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xianghua Xu
- Health Management Center, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Khalid Khan
- Xiang Ya Nursing School of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianfei Xie
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yongyi Chen
- Admin Office, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Sutar R, Chaudhary P, Yadav V. Prevalence of collusion in cancer communications: A meta-analysis. Psychooncology 2021; 31:372-387. [PMID: 34562324 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Collusion is the non-disclosure of information about diagnosis or prognosis, frequently encountered in cancer care and palliative services. Unraveling collusion is a skill and differences among communication techniques by Health Care Workers have maintained the process of non-disclosure to patients and caregivers. Identifying the prevalence of collusion in cancer care is required to improve the existing strategies across the world. METHODS A systematic review of the literature from 1991 to 2020 in the English language was conducted with the protocol registration on PROSPERO ID (CRD 42021249216.) to identify the pooled prevalence of collusion. RESULTS By using random effect model, the pooled prevalence estimate among patients for the diagnostic and prognostic collusion was 24.15, (95% CI [17.09; 32.96], Tou2 = 1.0801, I2 = 97.9%, Cochran's Q = 1058.22, df = 21, p-value < 0.001) and 37.92, (95% CI [22.46; 56.30], Tou2 = 1.9641, I2 = 98.6%, Cochran's Q = 944.26, df = 13, p-value < 0.001) respectively. There was no difference across subgroups with different types of setting for the interview, WHO regions and trend over the years. CONCLUSIONS Substantial prevalence of collusion goes unnoticed in cancer care. A meaningful understanding of such a large prevalence requires inquiry into the existing communication paradigm in cancer care across the world. The findings also question the need of formulating uniform interview techniques and structured assessment tools or questionnaires in cancer care to improve the disclosure rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Sutar
- Department of Psychiatry, AIIMS Bhopal, Bhopal, India
| | | | - Vikas Yadav
- Department of Environmental Health and Epidemiology, Indian Council of Medical Research, National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
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Bongelli R, Bertolazzi A, Piccioni L, Burro R. Italian onco-haematological patients' preferences in bad news communication: a preliminary investigation. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:555. [PMID: 34001021 PMCID: PMC8127256 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08181-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The manner in which bad news is communicated in oncological contexts can affect patients' engagement, their coping strategies and therapeutic compliance. Although this topic has been broadly investigated since the nineties, to the best of our knowledge, little has been written about Italian patients' experiences and preferences concerning what the oncologists should disclose and how they should intimate patients about their health conditions in different stages of oncological disease. METHODS In an attempt to fill this gap, an online self-report questionnaire was administered to a sample of Italian onco-haematological patients. Data were analysed both qualitatively (by a content analysis) and quantitatively (by descriptive analysis and Generalized Linear Mixed Model). RESULTS While the majority of patients elected to know the truth during their clinical course, a polarisation between those arguing that the truth be fully disclosed and those claiming that the truth be communicated in a personalised way was observed at the attitude level. Among demographic variables accounted for, age seems to most affect patients' preferences. Indeed, younger Italian patients decidedly reject concealment of the truth, even when justified by the beneficence principle. This result could be a reaction to some protective and paternalistic behaviours, but it could even reflect a relation according to which the more the age increases the more the fear of knowing rises, or an intergenerational change due to different ways of accessing the information. The qualitative analysis of the final open-ended question revealed three main sources of problems in doctor-patient encounters: scarcity of time, absence of empathy and use of not-understandable language that makes it difficult for patients to assume a more active role. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study, which represents a preliminary step in the subject investigation, will be deployed for the construction and validation of a more sophisticated questionnaire. Better awareness of the Italian onco-haematological patients' preferences concerning bad news communication and truth-telling could be useful in adopting more suitable medical practices and improving doctor-patient relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Bongelli
- Department of Political Science, Communication and International Relations, University of Macerata, Via Don Minzoni 22/A, 62100, Macerata, Italy.
| | - Alessia Bertolazzi
- Department of Political Science, Communication and International Relations, University of Macerata, Via Don Minzoni 22/A, 62100, Macerata, Italy
| | - Ludovica Piccioni
- Department of Political Science, Communication and International Relations, University of Macerata, Via Don Minzoni 22/A, 62100, Macerata, Italy
| | - Roberto Burro
- Department of Human Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Holmes SN, Illing J. Breaking bad news: tackling cultural dilemmas. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021; 11:128-132. [PMID: 33762267 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Requesting that serious diagnoses be concealed from patients, a widespread phenomenon in many cultures, presents a professional dilemma. Practical and sensitive communication strategies are needed. METHODOLOGY In this paper, we use analysis of the existing literature to develop a communication tool for practitioners facing requests for diagnostic non-disclosure. Our approach builds on existing strategies, in providing a mnemonic communication tool, permitting more than one outcome, and focusing on the need for mutual understanding and cooperation. RESULTS Existing work on this dilemma highlights the need to appreciate the family's standpoint, affirm their benevolent intentions and correct misperceptions. To this end, we have developed a mnemonic tool, 'ARCHES', to be used in situations where the family has requested diagnostic non-disclosure. The model has six stages: acknowledge the request for non-disclosure, build the relationship, find common ground, honour the patient's preferences and outline the harm of non-disclosure, provide emotional support and devise a supportive solution. CONCLUSION Facing requests for diagnostic non-disclosure is a challenge of communication. The dilemma is particularly marked when practising across cultures. Our model gives a structure for building rapport with the family and realigning their misperceptions while upholding the patient's right to knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Illing
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahati Chittem
- Department of Liberal Arts, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy District, Telangana, India
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13
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Wu J, Wang Y, Jiao X, Wang J, Ye X, Wang B. Differences in practice and preferences associated with truth-telling to cancer patients. Nurs Ethics 2020; 28:272-281. [PMID: 32959721 DOI: 10.1177/0969733020945754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Doctors should disclose the diagnosis to patients according to the principle of autonomy. However, not disclosing the diagnosis and prognosis to cancer patients remains common in mainland China. OBJECTIVE The study explored the experiences and attitudes of patients with cancer, family members, and the medical staff in truth-telling. RESEARCH DESIGN A quantitative survey with three closed-ended questionnaires was conducted. PARTICIPANTS In all, 137 patients with cancer, 134 family members caring for cancer cases, and 54 medical staff were surveyed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize all characteristics, and the chi-square test was performed to analyze group differences in attitudes toward cancer disclosure. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS This study was approved by the Committee on Ethics of Biomedicine Research, at the Second Military Medical University (HJEC-2018-YF-001). Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to study commencement. FINDINGS A total of 59.8% of patients were informed about their diagnosis within 1 week, and 19.7% inferred theirs. The medical staff preferred to prioritize family members in informing about patient diagnosis while 77.4% of patients preferred to be told the whole truth at the time of initial diagnosis. More patients than family members and medical staff wanted the patients to be informed about the diagnosis (p < 0.001). A significant difference was found between the patients and family members regarding who should tell the patients. DISCUSSION The willingness of patients in knowing the truth was underestimated by their family members as well as the medical staff. Guessing the truth indirectly may exert negative effects on the patients, and not telling the truth is inappropriate in patients who want to be informed. CONCLUSION Disclosure of a cancer diagnosis is a complex process involving medical practice, as well as a range of cultural, ethical, and legal factors. The medical staff should first assess each patient's willingness in truth-telling and inform about disease diagnosis with respect. Emotional support and comfort from family members are encouraged. Anyone in the patient's care team, especially nurses, could be integrated in the process of truth-telling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Naval Medical University, China
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14
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Hahne J, Liang T, Khoshnood K, Wang X, Li X. Breaking bad news about cancer in China: Concerns and conflicts faced by doctors deciding whether to inform patients. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2020; 103:286-291. [PMID: 31455567 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2019.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to explore how doctors in China decide whether to inform cancer patients about diagnosis and prognosis. METHODS We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 24 doctors and residents from a leading hospital in Hunan, China. Data were analyzed by content analysis. RESULTS Doctors routinely told the family about cancer first, then withheld information from patients if the family did not want to tell the patient. Three main themes emerged in relation to hiding bad news from patients: 1) fear that most patients lack resilience to cope with bad news; 2) fear of direct or legal conflict with the family, and 3) a value conflict between respecting the patient's "right to know" and respecting the family's interest in protecting the patient. CONCLUSIONS Doctors consider decisions to withhold information from cancer patients to be a non-ideal but necessary compromise of the patient's "right to know." Culturally adjusted training and guidelines could help with including the patient in information disclosure while still respecting China's cultural value of family decision-making. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future training and guidelines should help doctors mediate between patient and family interests and understand changing laws and regulations. Other important elements include reflection, senior mentorship, self-awareness, and building trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hahne
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ting Liang
- Department of Hematology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, PR China
| | | | - Xiaomin Wang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, PR China; Center for Medical Ethics, Central South University, Changsha 410013, PR China.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Hematology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, PR China; Center for Medical Ethics, Central South University, Changsha 410013, PR China.
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15
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Jie B, Zhou YH, Qiu Y, Yang GY, Feng ZZ. Impact of the disclosure of diagnosis on posttraumatic stress and growth and quality of life in Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:3371-3379. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05141-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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16
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Liu Y, Yang J, Song L, Yang X, Yin Y, Yan L. Nurses' experiences and attitudes toward diagnosis disclosure for cancer patients in China: A qualitative study. Psychooncology 2019; 28:2415-2421. [PMID: 31702852 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To qualitatively investigate and explore oncology nurses' perceptions of cancer diagnosis disclosure (CDD) for cancer patients. METHODS Purposive sampling led to the inclusion of 25 nurses with diverse characteristics from four inpatient oncology nursing wards in two tertiary hospitals. Semistructured, one-on-one, in-depth interviews were conducted. Colaizzi's analysis method was performed with NVivo software to develop categories and themes. RESULTS Four themes were identified: (a) impact of CDD, including advantages and disadvantages for patients and nurse distress; (b) barriers to CDD, including requests from family members, patients themselves, and communication skills; (c) strategies for CDD, including communication with family members, physician-nurse collaboration, and patient education; and (d) nurses' roles in CDD, including active participants and promoters and advocates. CONCLUSIONS More channels of information and education on cancer, cancer diagnosis, life, and death will be needed in the future. Nurses should actively participate in cancer diagnosis delivery, and more collaboration between nurses and physicians must occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiu Liu
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jinhong Yang
- Oncology Department, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Lei Song
- Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yanling Yin
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Liping Yan
- Hospital Administration Office, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
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17
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Yang GM, Pang GSY, Lee GL, Neo PSH, Wong YY, Qu DL, Cheung YB. Validation of the Comprehensive Needs Assessment Tool in Patients with Advanced Cancer. Indian J Palliat Care 2019; 25:374-378. [PMID: 31413451 PMCID: PMC6659524 DOI: 10.4103/ijpc.ijpc_38_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The 59-item Comprehensive Needs Assessment Tool (CNAT) for cancer patients is an English language survey developed in South Korea. The objective of this study was to validate the English version of CNAT in advanced cancer patients in Singapore. METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey where advanced cancer patients completed the CNAT in English. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess construct validity. For known groups validity, independent samples t-test was used to compare CNAT scores based on the Karnofsky performance status and outpatient versus inpatient setting. Cronbach's alpha was used to measure internal consistency. RESULTS A total of 328 advanced cancer patients were recruited. The mean age was 59.6 years and 49.1% were male. Majority (68.0%) were Chinese, 20.4% were Malay, 7.9% were Indian, and 3.7% were of other ethnicities. The 7-factor model previously established in Korea showed sufficient construct validity with root mean square error of approximation 0.037 and comparative fit index 0.944. All 59 items had a factor loading ≥0.5. Group invariance test showed no difference in the pattern of factor loadings between ethnic Chinese and other ethnic groups (P = 0.155). For known groups validity, there were significant differences in CNAT scores by performance status and outpatient versus inpatient setting. The CNAT total and factor scores showed good internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha of between 0.80 and 0.937. CONCLUSIONS The CNAT showed construct and known-group validity and internal consistency in this study sample and can be used to assess the unmet needs of advanced cancer patients in the Singapore context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Meijuan Yang
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre, Singapore
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Grace Su-Yin Pang
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre, Singapore
| | - Geok Ling Lee
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Yin Yee Wong
- Department of Quality, Assisi Hospice, Singapore
| | - Debra Limin Qu
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre, Singapore
| | - Yin Bun Cheung
- Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Tampere and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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Al Qadire M. Disclosure of Cancer Diagnosis: an Individualized and Non-paternalistic Approach Is Preferred. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2018; 33:996-1001. [PMID: 28238031 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-017-1192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
There is no consensus among healthcare providers on a unified disclosure practice with regard to cancer diagnosis, whether to tell or not. This issue is complicated by the absence of a clear policy for healthcare practitioners, who face this dilemma every day in their clinical practice. This study uniquely aims to explore Jordanian public preference on cancer diagnosis disclosure and the type of information they need. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used in this study. The sample consisted of 485 participants who were conveniently selected from the Jordanian public, and data was collected using the Arabic-Cancer Patients Information Needs Questionnaire. The majority of participants were females (56.1%) and most of them (62.1%) were aged between 18 and 29 years. It was found that 421 (86.8%) participants wanted to be informed of the diagnosis if they developed cancer. Participants show high needs of information with mean of total score of 4.2 SD 0.7 out of 5. They mainly demanded to know the things that participants could do to help their cure (mean = 4.47, SD 0.77). Also, they wanted to know whether their cancer was under control or not (item no. 4, mean = 4.42, SD 0.81). This study marks a point of change in public thinking about health issues. Jordanian public preferred to be fully informed of their cancer diagnosis. They wanted information about their prognosis, treatment and the available supportive services, which are of great interest to the Jordanian public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al Qadire
- Adult Healthcare Nursing Department, Princess Salma Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, P.O.Box 130040, Mafraq, 25113, Jordan.
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Liu Y, Yang J, Huo D, Fan H, Gao Y. Disclosure of cancer diagnosis in China: the incidence, patients' situation, and different preferences between patients and their family members and related influence factors. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:2173-2181. [PMID: 30087577 PMCID: PMC6061405 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s166437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the disclosure incidence of cancer diagnosis to patients before chemotherapy, to survey the attitudes of the patients and their families and related influencing factors toward disclosure of cancer diagnosis, and to compare the anxiety and depression levels between the disclosure and non-disclosure patients. Participants and methods A prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in China. A consecutive series of patients who had been diagnosed with malignancy by pathology and their family member were included in our study from March 2017 to December 2017. Patients’ situation, preferences, and their family members’ preferences were investigated by a self-designed questionnaire following a semi-structured interview. The Chinese version of HADS for anxiety and depression was used to test the patients’ psychological distress. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the related influencing factors of patients’ disclosure of their diagnosis. Results A total of 124 pairs of patients and their family members were analyzed. Of the 124 patients, 47 (37.90%) patients knew about their cancer diagnosis and 77 (62.10%) patients did not know about their cancer diagnosis before chemotherapy. There were more patients than family members who wanted the patients to be informed about the diagnosis of terminal illness (91.9% vs 53.2%, P<0.01). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that patients with university education (odds ratio [OR], 15.322; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.781–131.781; P<0.05), patients having equal or above average annual income (OR, 5.170; 95% CI, 1.842–14.514; P<0.01) were more likely informed about cancer diagnosis before chemotherapy. Higher anxiety level was found in diagnosis non-disclosure group (P<0.05) and no significant difference in depression score between two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion More than half of the patients did not know their exact diagnosis before chemotherapy in China. Educational level and economic status may be influencing factors for the disclosure of cancer diagnosis. Patients and their family members had different preferences toward diagnosis disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiu Liu
- Post-Doctoral Station of Clinical Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Department of Community Nursing, School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jinhong Yang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Da Huo
- Department of Oncology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Honghua Fan
- Department of Oncology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Yufang Gao
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China,
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20
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Gao P, You L, Wu D, Shi A, Miao Q, Rana U, Martin DP, Du Y, Zhao G, Han B, Zheng C, Fan Z. Adherence to endocrine therapy among Chinese patients with breast cancer: current status and recommendations for improvement. Patient Prefer Adherence 2018; 12:887-897. [PMID: 29872274 PMCID: PMC5973402 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s167004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative endocrine therapy is known to reduce recurrence and mortality in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)- or progestogen receptor (PR)-positive breast cancer. Correlates and determinants of compliance with endocrine therapy among Chinese patients with breast cancer are not known. The aim of this study was to elucidate the efficacy and adherence of endocrine therapy in China and suggest effective improvements on the adherence. PATIENTS AND METHODS We analyzed the survival of 1,110 patients eligible for endocrine therapy and adherence of 699 patients to endocrine therapy. Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate survival, and logistic regression models were used to assess variables associated with treatment adherence. RESULTS Long-term endocrine therapy was associated with lower recurrence rate (HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.56-0.93; p=0.013). Adherence to endocrine therapy was only 63.1%. Sociodemographic characteristics of patients, clinical- and medication-related characteristics and patients' attitudes were associated with adherence to endocrine therapy. CONCLUSION Adherence to endocrine therapy in Chinese patients with ER+/PR+ breast cancer was <65%. Both patients and physicians should take progressive steps to improve the rate of adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Lili You
- Department of Endocrinology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Aiping Shi
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qing Miao
- Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Ujala Rana
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Ye Du
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Chao Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhimin Fan
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Correspondence: Zhimin Fan, Department of Breast Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, Jilin, China, Email
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Rosenberg AR, Starks H, Unguru Y, Feudtner C, Diekema D. Truth Telling in the Setting of Cultural Differences and Incurable Pediatric Illness: A Review. JAMA Pediatr 2017; 171:1113-1119. [PMID: 28873121 PMCID: PMC5675758 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2017.2568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Navigating requests from parents or family caregivers not to disclose poor prognosis to seriously ill children can be challenging, especially when the requests seem culturally mediated. Pediatric clinicians must balance obligations to respect individual patient autonomy, professional truth telling, and tolerance of multicultural values. OBSERVATIONS To provide suggestions for respectful and ethically appropriate responses to nondisclosure requests, we used a hypothetical case example of a Middle Eastern adolescent patient with incurable cancer and conducted an ethical analysis incorporating (1) evidence from both Western and Middle Eastern medical literature and (2) theories of cultural relativism and justice. While Western medical literature tends to prioritize patient autonomy and corresponding truth telling, the weight of evidence from the Middle East suggests high variability between and within individual countries, patient-physician relationships, and families regarding truth-telling practices and preferences. A common reason for nondisclosure in both populations is protecting the child from distressing information. Cultural relativism fosters tolerance of diverse beliefs and behaviors by forbidding judgment on foreign societal codes of conduct. It does not justify assumptions that all individuals within a single culture share the same values, nor does it demand that clinicians sacrifice their own codes of conduct out of cultural respect. We suggest some phrases that may help clinicians explore motivations behind nondisclosure requests and gently confront conflict in order to serve the patient's best interest. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE It is sometimes ethically permissible to defer to family values regarding nondisclosure, but such deferral is not unique to cultural differences. Early setting of expectations and boundaries, as well as ongoing exploration of family and health care professional concerns, may mitigate conflict.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby R. Rosenberg
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Seattle, Washington2Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle, Washington3Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
| | - Helene Starks
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle, Washington3Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle4Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
| | - Yoram Unguru
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, The Herman and Walter Samuelson Children’s Hospital at Sinai, Baltimore, Maryland6Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Chris Feudtner
- Department of Medical Ethics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania8Departments of Pediatrics, Ethics, and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Douglas Diekema
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle, Washington3Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle4Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
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Association between socio-demographic factors, coping style, illness perceptions and preference for disclosure/nondisclosure of diagnosis in Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. J Health Psychol 2017; 24:1473-1483. [DOI: 10.1177/1359105317707258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We explored the association between socio-demographic factors, coping style, illness perceptions and preferences for disclosure/nondisclosure of cancer diagnosis in 384 Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. We found that (1) 69.3 percent of the patients preferred disclosure and (2) multivariate analysis showed that four variables were significantly positively associated with preference for disclosure, including active emotional-focused coping style, illness perceptions of personal control, chronic infection of hepatitis B virus, and educational level, whereas perceived emotional impact of illness and objective social support (mainly family support) were significantly associated with preference for nondisclosure. The findings provide useful information for understanding patients’ preferences for disclosure/nondisclosure of cancer diagnosis from a psychosocial perspective.
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Zhang LQ, Chen PN, Wang HL, Sun L, Zhao XK, Song X, Wu MJ, Zhang TJ, Ji LF, Han WL, Fan ZM, Yuan Y, Yang HJ, Wang JP, Zhou FY, Qi YJ, Wang LD. Truth telling for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in Henan, China. Cancer Biol Med 2017; 14:83-89. [PMID: 28443207 PMCID: PMC5365178 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2016.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE : This study aims to investigate the truth-telling status and the relevant factors of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients in Henan, China. METHODS : A cross-sectional study from April to June 2015 using questionnaires was given to 301 family members of hospitalized ESCC patients based in three affiliated hospitals of Zhengzhou University (i.e., The First Hospital, The Second Hospital, and Tumor Hospital) and Anyang Tumor Hospital. RESULTS : Among the 41.9% (126/301) hospitalized ESCC patients who knew of their true diagnoses, only 4.0% patients were informed by their corresponding responsible doctors, 39.7% by their family members, and 56.3% by themselves. Univariate analyses showed that disclosure of confirmed ESCC diagnosis to patients was correlated with gender, family history of cancer (FHC), education level, vocation, hospital administrative level, and attitudes of family members (P < 0.05). Furthermore, multivariate analysis indicated that attitude of family members was the most important and an independent factor for diagnosis disclosure. Those patients with a negative FHC, under-education, manual occupation, advanced stages, and hospitalized in municipal hospitals exhibited a low rate of truth telling. CONCLUSIONS : Truth telling for ESCC patients in Henan is not prevalent and may be improved through consultation with family members, particularly for patients with a negative FHC, poor education, manual occupation, and advanced stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Qun Zhang
- Anyang Tumor Hospital, Anyang 455000, China.,Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Pei-Nan Chen
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.,The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450014, China
| | - Hai-Ling Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.,The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Li Sun
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Xue-Ke Zhao
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Xin Song
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Min-Jie Wu
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Tang-Juan Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Ling-Fen Ji
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Wei-Li Han
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Zong-Min Fan
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Anyang Tumor Hospital, Anyang 455000, China
| | | | | | | | - Yi-Jun Qi
- Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, College of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Li-Dong Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
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Ni YH, Alræk T. What circumstances lead to non-disclosure of cancer-related information in China? A qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2016; 25:811-816. [PMID: 27832368 PMCID: PMC5266771 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3464-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withholding information from cancer patients is a common practice in many Asian countries, including China, Japan, and Singapore, as well as in some Western countries, such as Spain, Greece, and Italy. Much research has investigated why doctors withhold information from cancer patients generally, both in the West and the East, but little research has been done on specifically why Chinese doctors withhold such information. METHODS Three focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 16 oncologists in China. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and translated. Qualitative data were analyzed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS The result of this study revealed numerous circumstances that can lead to non-disclosure of cancer-related information. Many of these circumstances have been described in previous studies about non-disclosure in other countries. We found two additional circumstances that have not been described in previous literature and might therefore expand our current knowledge about this phenomenon; they are contradiction between laws and fear for personal safety. CONCLUSION Numerous circumstances can lead to non-disclosure of cancer-related information. This study found two additional circumstances that might lead to non-disclosure. The findings of this study suggest further assessment and clarification about the laws that govern doctor-patient communication and that action should be taken to ensure safe working environments for Chinese oncologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Hu Ni
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Postboks 7804, Kalfarveien 31, 5020, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Terje Alræk
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Institute of Health Sciences, Kristiania University College, PB 1190 Sentrum, 0107, Oslo, Norway
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25
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Feelings, perceptions, and expectations of patients during the process of oral cancer diagnosis. Support Care Cancer 2015; 24:2323-2332. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-3030-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Jie B, Qiu Y, Feng ZZ, Zhu SN. Impact of disclosure of diagnosis and patient autonomy on quality of life and illness perceptions in Chinese patients with liver cancer. Psychooncology 2015; 25:927-32. [PMID: 26567897 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This prospective cohort study explored the impact of disclosure of diagnosis and patient autonomy on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and illness perceptions in Chinese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Patients with HCC who were admitted for potentially curative treatments in a teaching hospital were recruited from August 2013 to July 2014. Patients were interviewed at admission regarding their HRQOL and their attitude towards disclosure of diagnosis. They were interviewed again regarding HRQOL and illness perceptions at discharge. RESULTS There were 218 patients recruited; 57.8% of them were aware of their cancer diagnosis (disclosed group). For 63.8% of the participants, their desire for disclosure or nondisclosure was satisfied (autonomy-satisfied group). When comparing the patients in the disclosed group with the patients who were uninformed, the patients in the disclosed group had higher scores for global HRQOL at discharge (p = 0.013) and higher scores on understanding of their illness regarding illness perceptions (p = 0.022). When comparing the patients in the 'autonomy-satisfied' group with the patients whose desire for disclosure was not satisfied, the patients in the autonomy-satisfied group had better emotional functioning and better global HRQOL at discharge (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). Additionally, the patients in the autonomy-satisfied group had higher scores for personal control (p = 0.009) and lower scores for emotional reaction (p = 0.007) regarding illness perceptions, even after controlling for other confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that for patients with HCC who have undergone potentially curative treatment, physicians should satisfy patients' desires for autonomy regarding the disclosure of their diagnosis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Jie
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Qiu
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng-Zhi Feng
- School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shai-Nan Zhu
- Department of Epidemics and Statistics, Beijing University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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Wang DC, Guo CB, Peng X, Su YJ. Psychological morbidity and health-related quality of life in patients with differing awareness of cancer diagnosis: a cross-sectional study. Psychooncology 2014; 23:975-80. [PMID: 24577849 DOI: 10.1002/pon.3512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Revised: 12/08/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dian Can Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology; Beijing China
| | - Chuan Bin Guo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology; Beijing China
| | - Xin Peng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology; Beijing China
| | - Yan Jie Su
- Department of Psychology; Peking University; Beijing China
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Li XP, Xie ZY, Fu YF, Yang C, Hao LP, Yang LM, Zhang MY, Li XL, Feng LL, Yan B, Sun Q. Colorectal Cancer Concealment Predicts a Poor Survival: A Retrospective Study. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2013; 14:4157-60. [DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2013.14.7.4157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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When clinicians telling the truth is de facto discouraged, what is the family’s attitude towards disclosing to a relative their cancer diagnosis? Support Care Cancer 2012; 21:1089-95. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-012-1629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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