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Fügemann H, Goerling U, Gödde K, Desch AK, Müller-Nordhorn J, Mauckisch V, Siegerink B, Rieckmann N, Holmberg C. What do people with lung cancer and stroke expect from patient navigation? A qualitative study in Germany. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050601. [PMID: 34949615 PMCID: PMC8710862 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This qualitative study investigated patients' needs and wishes in relation to patient navigation. DESIGN A qualitative interview study was conducted. Participants were invited to take part in three in-depth interviews over a period of 6-12 months. Thematic analysis was used. SETTING Interviewees were sought in the Berlin metropolitan area of Germany in academic university hospitals, in rehabilitation clinics and through self-help organisations. PARTICIPANTS The sample consisted of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer (n=20) or stroke (n=20). RESULTS From the perspective of interviewees, patient navigators should function as consistent contact persons, present during the whole care trajectory. Their role would be to guide patients through an often confusing healthcare landscape, offering practical, advisory and emotional assistance corresponding to patients' needs. The study shows that-independent of the disease-participants had similar expectations and needs regarding support from navigators. CONCLUSION For chronic and complex diseases-as is the case with lung cancer and stroke-it appears less important for navigators to fulfil disease-specific tasks. Rather, they should ensure that patients' more general needs, in relation to social, practical and emotional support, are met in a way that suits their individual wishes. Following these results, patient navigation programmes might be designed to include generic elements, which should then be adapted to the infrastructure in a particular healthcare region and to the particularities of a specific healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hella Fügemann
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg/Havel, Germany
| | - Ute Goerling
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kathrin Gödde
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anke Kristin Desch
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg/Havel, Germany
| | | | - Verena Mauckisch
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bob Siegerink
- Dept clinical epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nina Rieckmann
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Holmberg
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg/Havel, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
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Buonaccorso L, Bertocchi E, Autelitano C, Allisen Accogli M, Denti M, Fugazzaro S, Martucci G, Costi S, Tanzi S. Psychoeducational and rehabilitative intervention to manage cancer cachexia (PRICC) for patients and their caregivers: protocol for a single-arm feasibility trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e042883. [PMID: 33649057 PMCID: PMC8098954 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Half of all patients with cancer experience cachexia, with the prevalence rising above 80% in the last weeks of life. Cancer cachexia (CC) is a complex relational experience that involves the patient-family dyad. There are no studies on the association between the psychoeducational component and the rehabilitative component of dyads for supporting more functional relationships in the management of CC.The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of a psychoeducational intervention combined with a rehabilitative intervention on dyads.The secondary objective is to improve the quality of life (QoL) and acceptability of the intervention. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This mixed-methods study with a nonpharmacological interventional prospective includes 30 consecutive cancer patients with cachexia and refractory cachexia and their caregivers, assisted by the Specialised Palliative Care Team. The recruitment will last 1 year. The intervention involves two components: (1) psychoeducational intervention: 3 weekly face-to-face consultations between dyads and trained nurses to help the dyads cope with involuntary weight loss and strengthening dyadic coping resources and (2) rehabilitation intervention: 3 biweekly educational sessions between dyads and trained physiotherapists focused on self-management, goal-setting, physical activity with three home exercise sessions per week.The primary endpoint will be in adherence to the intervention, indicated by a level of completion greater than or equal to 50% in both components. The secondary endpoints will be QoL (Functional Assessment of Anorexia-Cachexia Therapy), caregiver burden (Zarit Burden), physical performance (Hand-Grip strength and 30 seconds sit-to-stand test), and the acceptability of the intervention (ad hoc semi-structured interviews with the dyads and the healthcare professionals). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved by the Ethics Committee Area Vasta Emilia Nord, Azienda USL-IRCSS Reggio Emilia, Italy, number: 73/2019/SPER/IRCCSRE. The authors will provide the dissemination of the results through publication in international scientific journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04153019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Buonaccorso
- Psycho-Oncology Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bertocchi
- Palliative Care Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Cristina Autelitano
- Palliative Care Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Monia Allisen Accogli
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Monica Denti
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Fugazzaro
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Martucci
- Palliative Care Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Costi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Scientific Directorate, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Tanzi
- Palliative Care Unit, Azienda USL - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Ph.D. Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Hirpara DH, Gupta V, Davis LE, Zhao H, Hallet J, Mahar AL, Sutradhar R, Doherty M, Louie AV, Kidane B, Darling G, Coburn NG. Severe symptoms persist for Up to one year after diagnosis of stage I-III lung cancer: An analysis of province-wide patient reported outcomes. Lung Cancer 2020; 142:80-89. [PMID: 32120228 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2020.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lung cancer is associated with significant disease- and treatment-related morbidity. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) is a tool developed to elicit patients' own assessment of the severity of common cancer-associated symptoms. The objective of this study was to examine symptom severity in the 12 months following diagnosis of lung cancer, and to identify predictors of high symptom burden. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective population-based cohort study, including patients with stage I-III lung cancer diagnosed between 2007-2016, and who had symptom screening in the 12 months following diagnosis. The proportion of patients reporting severe symptoms (ESAS ≥ 7) in the year following diagnosis was plotted over time. Multivariable regression models were constructed to identify factors associated with severe symptoms. RESULTS 69,440 unique symptom assessments were reported by 11,075 lung cancer patients. Tiredness was the most prevalent severe symptom (47.3 %), followed by shortness of breath (39.4 %) and poor wellbeing (36.5 %) among all disease stages. Patients diagnosed with higher stage disease reported more severe symptoms, but symptom trajectories were similar for all stages in the year following diagnosis. Disease stage (RR 1.10-2.01), comorbidity burden (RR 1.17-1.51), degree of socioeconomic marginalization (RR1.15-1.45), and female sex (RR 1.15-1.50) were associated with reporting severe symptoms in the year following diagnosis. CONCLUSION Severe physical and psychological symptoms persist throughout the first year following lung cancer diagnosis, regardless of disease stage. Those at risk of experiencing high symptom burden may benefit from targeted supportive care interventions, including psychosocial support aimed at improving health-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruvin H Hirpara
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Vaibhav Gupta
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Laura E Davis
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Haoyu Zhao
- ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Julie Hallet
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada; Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada; ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Alyson L Mahar
- Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, University of Manitoba, 727 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3B 3P5, Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada; ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Mark Doherty
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St., Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Alexander V Louie
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St., Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Biniam Kidane
- Section of Thoracic Surgery, University of Manitoba, 820 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Gail Darling
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth St., Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Natalie G Coburn
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada; Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada; ICES, 2075 Bayview Ave., Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada.
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Vogel J, Wang X, Troxel AB, Simone CB, Rengan R, Lin LL. Prospective assessment of demographic characteristics associated with worse health related quality of life measures following definitive chemoradiation in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2019; 8:332-339. [PMID: 31555509 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr.2019.08.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate baseline demographic characteristics which may be associated with worse health related quality of life (HRQOL) for patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving definitive chemoradiation (CRT). Materials Patients with NSCLC were prospectively enrolled on an Institutional Review Board-approved clinical trial between 2009 and 2012. HRQOL assessments were collected pre-radiation therapy (RT), during RT, and within 3 months post-RT using Euroqol (EQ-5D), MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI), and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy General (FACT-G). HRQOL correlation was assessed with categorical variables by Wilcoxon rank sum tests and with continuous variables by Pearson correlation. P<0.05 was defined as statistically significant. Results Forty-three consecutive patients received definitive concurrent CRT and completed assessments at one or more time-points. Patients most commonly had stage IIIB disease (72%), were married or with a partner (70%) and Caucasian (91%). Median patient age was 65 (range: 39-79) years and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) was 0 (range: 0-5). Female gender, African-American ethnicity, age, chemotherapy type, baseline hemoglobin, and CCI were associated with worse post-treatment HRQOL measures. Conclusions We have identified novel characteristics associated with worse quality of life following definitive CRT for lung cancer. Patients at risk for worse post-treatment quality of life may benefit from earlier follow-up and greater supportive measures following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Vogel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xingmei Wang
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrea B Troxel
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Charles B Simone
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ramesh Rengan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lilie L Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Stanze H, Schneider N, Nauck F, Marx G. "I can't get it into my head that I have cancer…"-A qualitative interview study on needs of patients with lung cancer. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216778. [PMID: 31086395 PMCID: PMC6516640 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Caring for patients with advanced lung cancer is of high relevance in different clinical settings. Lung cancer is among the most common causes of death from malignant neoplasms worldwide; with increasing prevalence and mortality. Aim To get a better understanding of individual patients’ needs, exploring the experiences and meaning of living with advanced lung cancer at the end of life, and to develop strategies for improving patient-centred care in Germany. Design Qualitative explorative interview study with patients, using grounded theory. Setting/Participants A sample of 17 adults living with advanced lung cancer in Lower Saxony/Germany was recruited in two university hospitals. Patients were asked to tell of their experiences of living with advanced lung cancer. The emphasis of this study was the period of palliative tumour therapy. Results The main phenomenon of living with advanced lung cancer is the feeling of having to redefine one’s own existence, such as social roles within and outside the family. The diagnosis trigger powerlessness, which can lead to information passivity, followed by acceptance of aggressive tumour treatment. Patients perceive a high degree of psychological and social stress, without being able to express this. There is a lack of regular appropriate psychosocial care accompanying chemotherapy. Patients ascribe their physical suffering to the side effects of tumour treatment, which may trigger a desire to die. Finally, patients tend to hide their individual needs, even when asked. Conclusions Regarding the patients’ needs, greater emphasis must be placed on psychosocial care as part of the biopsychosocial model to adequately consider the patients’ concerns. Assessments can be helpful to enhance communication at an early stage across all professions into the multi-professional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrikje Stanze
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for General Practice, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Nils Schneider
- Institute for General Practice, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Friedemann Nauck
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gabriella Marx
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of General Practice / Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Cancer cachexia: Diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 127:91-104. [PMID: 29891116 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is a multi-factorial syndrome, which negatively affects quality of life, responsiveness to chemotherapy, and survival in advanced cancer patients. Our understanding of cachexia has grown greatly in recent years and the roles of many tumor-derived and host-derived compounds have been elucidated as mediators of cancer cachexia. However, cancer cachexia remains an unmet medical need and attempts towards a standard treatment guideline have been unsuccessful. This review covers the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of cancer cachexia; the elements impeding the formulation of a standard management guideline; and future directions of research for the improvement and standardization of current treatment procedures.
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Wasley D, Gale N, Roberts S, Backx K, Nelson A, van Deursen R, Byrne A. Patients with established cancer cachexia lack the motivation and self-efficacy to undertake regular structured exercise. Psychooncology 2017; 27:458-464. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Wasley
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences; Cardiff Metropolitan University; Cardiff UK
| | - Nichola Gale
- School of Healthcare Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences; Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
| | - Sioned Roberts
- School of Healthcare Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences; Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
| | - Karianne Backx
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences; Cardiff Metropolitan University; Cardiff UK
- Cardiff Centre for Exercise and Health; Cardiff Metropolitan University; Cardiff UK
| | - Annmarie Nelson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre (MCPCRC), Division of Population Medicine; School of Medicine, Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
| | - Robert van Deursen
- School of Healthcare Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences; Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
| | - Anthony Byrne
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre (MCPCRC), Division of Population Medicine; School of Medicine, Cardiff University; Cardiff UK
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Neefjes EC, van den Hurk RM, Blauwhoff‐Buskermolen S, van der Vorst MJ, Becker‐Commissaris A, de van der Schueren MA, Buffart LM, Verheul HM. Muscle mass as a target to reduce fatigue in patients with advanced cancer. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2017; 8:623-629. [PMID: 28639432 PMCID: PMC5566642 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) reduces quality of life and the activity level of patients with cancer. Cancer related fatigue can be reduced by exercise interventions that may concurrently increase muscle mass. We hypothesized that low muscle mass is directly related to higher CRF. METHODS A total of 233 patients with advanced cancer starting palliative chemotherapy for lung, colorectal, breast, or prostate cancer were studied. The skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated as the patient's muscle mass on level L3 or T4 of a computed tomography scan, adjusted for height. Fatigue was assessed with the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-fatigue questionnaire (cut-off for fatigue <34). Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to study the association between SMI and CRF adjusting for relevant confounders. RESULTS In this group of patients with advanced cancer, the median fatigue score was 36 (interquartile range 26-44). A higher SMI on level L3 was significantly associated with less CRF for men (B 0.447, P 0.004) but not for women (B - 0.401, P 0.090). No association between SMI on level T4 and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-fatigue score was found (n = 82). CONCLUSIONS The association between SMI and CRF may lead to the suggestion that male patients may be able to reduce fatigue by exercise interventions aiming at an increased muscle mass. In women with advanced cancer, CRF is more influenced by other causes, because it is not significantly related to muscle mass. To further reduce CRF in both men and women with cancer, multifactorial assessments need to be performed in order to develop effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth C.W. Neefjes
- Department of Medical OncologyVU University Medical Center/Cancer Center Amsterdamde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Renske M. van den Hurk
- Department of Medical OncologyVU University Medical Center/Cancer Center Amsterdamde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Susanne Blauwhoff‐Buskermolen
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Internal MedicineVU University Medical Centerde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maurice J.D.L. van der Vorst
- Department of Medical OncologyVU University Medical Center/Cancer Center Amsterdamde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Internal MedicineRijnstate HospitalWagnerlaan 556815 ADArnhemThe Netherlands
| | | | - Marian A.E. de van der Schueren
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Internal MedicineVU University Medical Centerde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Laurien M. Buffart
- Department of Medical OncologyVU University Medical Center/Cancer Center Amsterdamde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsVU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institutede Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Exercise Medicine Research InstituteEdith Cowan University270 Joondalup DrJoondalup WA 6027Australia
| | - Henk M.W. Verheul
- Department of Medical OncologyVU University Medical Center/Cancer Center Amsterdamde Boelelaan 11171081 HVAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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A prospective study of changes in anxiety, depression, and problems in living during chemotherapy treatments: effects of age and gender. Support Care Cancer 2017; 25:1897-1904. [PMID: 28150043 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3596-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Monitoring distress assessment in cancer patients during the treatment phase is a component of good quality care practice. Yet, there is a dearth of prospective studies examining distress. In an attempt to begin filling this gap and inform clinical practice, we conducted a prospective, longitudinal study examining changes in distress (anxiety, depression, and problems in living) by age and gender and the roles of age and gender in predicting distress. METHODS Newly diagnosed Brazilian cancer patients (N = 548) were assessed at three time points during chemotherapy. Age and gender were identified on the first day of chemotherapy (T1); anxiety, depression, and problems in living were self-reported at T1, the planned midway point (T2), and the last day of chemotherapy (T3). RESULTS At T1, 37 and 17% of patients reported clinically significant levels of anxiety and depression, respectively. At T3, the prevalence was reduced to 4.6% for anxiety and 5.1% for depression (p < .001). Patients 40-55 years, across all time points, reported greater anxiety and practical problems than patients >70 years (p < .03). Female patients reported greater emotional, physical, and family problems than their male counterparts (p < .04). CONCLUSIONS For most patients, elevated levels of distress noted in the beginning of treatment subsided by the time of treatment completion. However, middle-aged and female patients continued to report heightened distress. Evidence-based psychosocial intervention offered to at risk patients during early phases of the treatment may provide distress relief and improve outcomes over the illness trajectory while preventing psychosocial and physical morbidity due to untreated chronic distress.
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Sasai T, Onishi C. Relationship between Uncertainty and Emotions in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients after Initial Therapy. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2017; 64:96-100. [DOI: 10.2152/jmi.64.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Sasai
- Tokushima University Hospital, Department of Nursing
| | - Chiemi Onishi
- Tokushima University Graduate School, Institute of Biomedical Sciences
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with lung cancer have the poorest sleep quality compared with other patients with cancer and noncancer control subjects. However, few studies have examined sleep longitudinally. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to characterize and correlate sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, sleep-wake actigraphy, and quality of life (QOL) before, during, and after chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS Using a prospective repeated-measures 1-group design, patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy for NSCLC were recruited. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment-Lung (FACT-L), and Motionlogger Actigraph were used for data collection. RESULTS Poor nocturnal sleep and QOL were evident among 29 patients with NSCLC before treatment. The FACT-L subscale scores worsened and then improved significantly from baseline through 2 rounds of chemotherapy. Objective sleep duration and sleep efficiency were positively associated with FACT-L scores, whereas objective sleep latency and wake after sleep onset were negatively associated with FACT-L scores. Sleepy patients had significantly worse FACT-L scores than did nonsleepy patients. The FACT-L subscale items that demonstrated significant worsening and then improvement over time were shortness of breath, weight loss, coughing, and chest tightness. Lung cancer patients experience early and middle insomnia before and during treatment. CONCLUSION Poor sleep quality is common in patients receiving treatment for NSCLC and is related to poorer QOL and respiratory symptoms. IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE Patients with NSCLC require routine screening for sleep disturbances. A positive screen for sleep disturbance warrants a thorough sleep assessment using practice guidelines and, if necessary, referral to a sleep specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
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van den Beuken-van Everdingen MHJ, Hochstenbach LMJ, Joosten EAJ, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, Janssen DJA. Update on Prevalence of Pain in Patients With Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 51:1070-1090.e9. [PMID: 27112310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2015.12.340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 924] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Cancer pain has a severe impact on quality of life and is associated with numerous psychosocial responses. Recent studies suggest that treatment of cancer pain has improved during the last decade. OBJECTIVES The aim of this review was to examine the present status of pain prevalence and pain severity in patients with cancer. METHODS A systematic search of the literature published between September 2005 and January 2014 was performed using the databases PubMed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Articles in English or Dutch that reported on the prevalence of cancer pain in an adult population were included. Titles and abstracts were screened by two authors independently, after which full texts were evaluated and assessed on methodological quality. Study details and pain characteristics were extracted from the articles with adequate study quality. Prevalence rates were pooled with meta-analysis; meta-regression was performed to explore determinants of pain prevalence. RESULTS Of 4117 titles, 122 studies were selected for the meta-analyses on pain (117 studies, n = 63,533) and pain severity (52 studies, n = 32,261). Pain prevalence rates were 39.3% after curative treatment; 55.0% during anticancer treatment; and 66.4% in advanced, metastatic, or terminal disease. Moderate to severe pain (numerical rating scale score ≥5) was reported by 38.0% of all patients. CONCLUSION Despite increased attention on assessment and management, pain continues to be a prevalent symptom in patients with cancer. In the upcoming decade, we need to overcome barriers toward effective pain treatment and develop and implement interventions to optimally manage pain in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke H J van den Beuken-van Everdingen
- Center of Expertise for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Laura M J Hochstenbach
- School for Public Health and Primary Care (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Health Services Research, Maastricht University (UM), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elbert A J Joosten
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; School of Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Vivianne C G Tjan-Heijnen
- School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daisy J A Janssen
- Center of Expertise for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Research and Education, Center of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure, CIRO+, Horn, The Netherlands
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Maurer AJ, Lissounov A, Knezevic I, Candido KD, Knezevic NN. Pain and sex hormones: a review of current understanding. Pain Manag 2016; 6:285-96. [DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2015-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
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Chandrasekar D, Tribett E, Ramchandran K. Integrated Palliative Care and Oncologic Care in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2016; 17:23. [PMID: 27032645 PMCID: PMC4819778 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-016-0397-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Palliative care integrated into standard medical oncologic care will transform the way we approach and practice oncologic care. Integration of appropriate components of palliative care into oncologic treatment using a pathway-based approach will be described in this review. Care pathways build on disease status (early, locally advanced, advanced) as well as patient and family needs. This allows for an individualized approach to care and is the best means for proactive screening, assessment, and intervention, to ensure that all palliative care needs are met throughout the continuum of care. Components of palliative care that will be discussed include assessment of physical symptoms, psychosocial distress, and spiritual distress. Specific components of these should be integrated based on disease trajectory, as well as clinical assessment. Palliative care should also include family and caregiver education, training, and support, from diagnosis through survivorship and end of life. Effective integration of palliative care interventions have the potential to impact quality of life and longevity for patients, as well as improve caregiver outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Chandrasekar
- />Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2502 Galahad Court, San Jose, CA 95122 USA
| | - Erika Tribett
- />General Medical Disciplines, Stanford University School of Medicine, Medical School Office Building, 1265 Welch Road, MC 5475, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Kavitha Ramchandran
- />Outpatient Palliative Medicine, Stanford Cancer Institute, Medical School Office Building, 1265 Welch Road MC 5475, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
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Polanski J, Jankowska-Polanska B, Rosinczuk J, Chabowski M, Szymanska-Chabowska A. Quality of life of patients with lung cancer. Onco Targets Ther 2016; 9:1023-8. [PMID: 27013895 PMCID: PMC4778772 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s100685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the major cause of oncologic-related death worldwide. Due to delayed diagnosis, 5-year survival rate accounts for only 15%. Treatment includes surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiation therapy; however, it is burdened by many side effects. Progress of the disease, severity of its symptoms, and side effects decrease significantly the quality of life (QoL) in those patients. The level of self-assessed QoL helps in predicting survival, which is especially important among patients receiving palliative care. Patients assess their functioning in five dimensions (physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and life roles), severity of symptoms, financial problems, and overall QoL. The QoL in lung cancer patients is lower than in healthy population and patients suffering from other malignancies. It is affected by the severity and the number of symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, dyspnea, cough, pain, and blood in sputum, which are specific for lung tumors. Fatigue and respiratory problems reduce psychological dimension of QoL, while sleep problems reduce cognitive functioning. Physical dimension (related to growing disability) decreases in most of the patients. Also, most of them are unable to play their family and social roles. The disease is a frequent reason of irritation, distress, and depression. Management of the disease symptoms may improve QoL. Controlling the level of fatigue, pulmonary rehabilitation, and social and spiritual support are recommended. Early introduction of tailored palliative treatment is a strategy of choice for improvement of QoL in lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Polanski
- Lower Silesian Oncology Center, Home Hospice, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Joanna Rosinczuk
- Department of Nervous System Diseases, Department of Clinical Nursing, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Chabowski
- Division of Nursing in Surgical Procedures, Department of Clinical Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Szymanska-Chabowska
- Department of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases and Hypertension, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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Bayly JL, Lloyd-Williams M. Identifying functional impairment and rehabilitation needs in patients newly diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer: a structured literature review. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:2359-2379. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-3066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Koller M, Warncke S, Hjermstad MJ, Arraras J, Pompili C, Harle A, Johnson CD, Chie WC, Schulz C, Zeman F, van Meerbeeck JP, Kuliś D, Bottomley A. Use of the lung cancer-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire EORTC QLQ-LC13 in clinical trials: A systematic review of the literature 20 years after its development. Cancer 2015; 121:4300-23. [PMID: 26451520 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.29682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-Lung Cancer 13 (QLQ-LC13) covers 13 typical symptoms of lung cancer patients and was the first module developed in conjunction with the EORTC core quality-of-life (QL) questionnaire. This review investigates how the module has been used and reported in cancer clinical trials in the 20 years since its publication. Thirty-six databases were searched with a prespecified algorithm. This search plus an additional hand search generated 770 hits, 240 of which were clinical studies. Two raters extracted data using a coding scheme. Analyses focused on the randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of the 240 clinical studies that were identified using the LC13, 109 (45%) were RCTs. More than half of the RCTs were phase 3 trials (n = 58). Twenty RCTs considered QL as the primary endpoint, and 68 considered it as a secondary endpoint. QL results were addressed in the results section of the article (n = 89) or in the abstract (n = 92); and, in half of the articles, QL results were presented in the form of tables (n = 53) or figures (n = 43). Furthermore, QL results had an impact on the evaluation of the therapy that could be clearly demonstrated in the 47 RCTs that yielded QL differences between treatment and control groups. The EORTC QLQ-LC13 fulfilled its mission to be used as a standard instrument in lung cancer clinical trials. An update of the LC13 is underway to keep up with new therapeutic trends and to ensure optimized and relevant QL assessment in future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Koller
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sophie Warncke
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marianne J Hjermstad
- Regional Centre for Excellence in Palliative Care, Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital and European Palliative Care Research Centre, Department of Cancer and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Juan Arraras
- Oncology Departments, Navarra Hospital Complex, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cecilia Pompili
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Amelie Harle
- The Christie National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Colin D Johnson
- University Surgical Unit, University Hospital Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Wei-Chu Chie
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Christian Schulz
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Florian Zeman
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Oksholm T, Rustoen T, Cooper B, Paul SM, Solberg S, Henriksen K, Kongerud JS, Miaskowski C. Trajectories of Symptom Occurrence and Severity From Before Through Five Months After Lung Cancer Surgery. J Pain Symptom Manage 2015; 49:995-1015. [PMID: 25593100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2014.11.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Limited information is available about lung cancer patients' symptoms in the pre- and postoperative periods. OBJECTIVES Study purposes were to evaluate for changes in symptom occurrence and severity from the preoperative period to five months after surgery and to evaluate for predictors of the occurrence and trajectories of these symptoms. METHODS Patients completed the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale before and at one and five months after surgery. Changes in the six most common physical symptoms and the most common psychological symptom were evaluated using multilevel growth mixture modeling. Age, gender, comorbidity, and receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy were included as covariates in the conditional models for symptom occurrence and severity. RESULTS The total number of symptoms increased significantly from the preoperative to the one month assessment. At five months, the number of symptoms was lower than at one month but significantly higher than at the preoperative assessment. The occurrence of five of the symptoms (i.e., pain, lack of energy, shortness of breath, feeling drowsy, and worrying) increased significantly from before through the first month after surgery and then decreased over time. Cough and difficulty sleeping persisted over the five months of the study. In general, the effect of the four covariates was to increase patients' overall symptom burden. CONCLUSION Changes in the occurrence and severity of these seven symptoms were variable. All seven symptoms occurred at relatively high rates and were of moderate severity. Findings can be used to identify patients who are at higher risk for more severe symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Oksholm
- Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Ullevål, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Tone Rustoen
- Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Ullevål, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Nursing Science, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bruce Cooper
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Steven M Paul
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Steinar Solberg
- Department for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Henriksen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Johny Steinar Kongerud
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Health and Society and Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Liao YC, Shun SC, Liao WY, Yu CJ, Yang PC, Lai YH. Quality of life and related factors in patients with newly diagnosed advanced lung cancer: a longitudinal study. Oncol Nurs Forum 2014; 41:E44-55. [PMID: 24578085 DOI: 10.1188/14.onf.e44-e55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To examine the changes in quality of life (QOL), symptoms, self-efficacy for coping with cancer, and factors related to those changes in patients with newly diagnosed advanced lung cancer. DESIGN Longitudinal and correlational. SETTING Oncology inpatient wards and outpatient departments of a medical center in northern Taiwan. SAMPLE 101 patients newly diagnosed with stage IIIB or IV lung cancer. METHODS Questionnaires were used to assess patients' QOL, symptoms, and self-efficacy before treatment and at one and three months following treatment. Factors related to the changes in global QOL and five functional dimensions were analyzed using six generalized estimating equation models. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES QOL, symptoms, and self-efficacy for coping with cancer. FINDINGS Patients reported moderate levels of global QOL, symptom severity, and self-efficacy for coping with cancer. They also reported high physical and cognitive functions, but relatively low role and social functions. Factors were significantly related to the most functional dimensions, including self-efficacy, fatigue, pain, sleep difficulties, and demographic- and disease-related factors. Self-efficacy was the most robust factor for predicting QOL. CONCLUSIONS Patients with advanced lung cancer experience a compromised global QOL and relatively low social and role functioning during the first three months following cancer diagnosis. Levels of self-efficacy and symptoms significantly affected changes in QOL and functioning. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Applying a systematic assessment of changes in QOL and developing comprehensive interventions with self-efficacy training and symptom management are strongly recommended for clinical care to improve the QOL of patients with advanced lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chien Liao
- Department of Nursing, Yuanpei University in Hsinchu
| | - Shiow-Ching Shun
- School of Nursing in the College of Medicine, National Taiwan University in Taipei
| | - Wei-Yu Liao
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital
| | - Chong-Jen Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital
| | - Pan-Chyr Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital
| | - Yeur-Hur Lai
- School of Nursing in the College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
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The influence of symptom clusters and the most distressing concerns regarding quality of life among patients with inoperable lung cancer. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2014; 18:236-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Revised: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer cachexia has impact on patients and their family members. Patients experience loss of weight often accompanied by anorexia and other debilitating symptoms that have clinical impact and impact everyday life. The importance of understanding this impact lies in (1) the alleviation of cachexia-related suffering and (2) its implications for treating cachexia. REVIEW Two decades of exploratory investigation of the manifestations, meaning and management of cancer cachexia reveal emotional and social impacts for both patients and their carers. Patients can describe change in appearance and loss of physical strength often accompanied by change in eating habits (amount, type and pattern of food intake). The psychosocial effects can include loss of independence, sense of failure, sense of helplessness, conflict with family members over food, social isolation and thoughts of death. They are effects that can distress. Conversely, weight loss, especially early in its course and for those who are obese, can be perceived as beneficial, which inhibits self-management of diet and physical activity. CONCLUSION Models of the psychosocial effects of cancer cachexia have been developed, leading to, as yet unproven, propositions of how negative patient and family impacts can be addressed. This literature overlooks the potential importance of psychosocial intervention to emerging multimodal treatments for the multicausal syndrome. Psychosocial intervention in cachexia should be tested for potential to help people affected by cancer cachexia feel better but also for potential to make people better by aiding uptake and compliance with multimodal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane B Hopkinson
- Cardiff School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK,
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Alt-Epping B, Stäritz AE, Simon ST, Altfelder N, Hotz T, Lindena G, Nauck F. What is special about patients with lung cancer and pulmonary metastases in palliative care? Results from a nationwide survey. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:971-7. [PMID: 22731513 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2011.0434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced lung cancer constitute a special focus in palliative care not only for epidemiological or prognostic reasons, but also because their symptom burden is felt to be widespread and difficult to treat. This study describes disease-specific characteristics and the symptom burden of patients with advanced incurable lung cancer, comparing them with patients suffering from other diseaseentities. METHODS A secondary analysis of the nationwide Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation (HOPE) was performed, by focussing on inpatient hospice and palliative care unit patients and by using descriptive methods. RESULTS From 2006 to 2008, 5487 inpatients were registered, 874 of which were diagnosed with lung cancer and 1884 with pulmonary metastases. Symptoms such as weakness, tiredness, or pain were most prevalent in all subgroups. Dyspnea was significantly more prevalent in all patients with different kinds of pulmonary tumor manifestations; confusion was significantly more prevalent in patients with lung cancer. Dyspnea could not be treated as effectively as pain or nausea. Confusion and nursing problems worsened during the observation period. Dyspnea and confusion were associated with increased risk of death during the observational period. CONCLUSION The symptom pattern of patients with lung cancer is characterized by dyspnea and confusion--symptoms that are difficult to treat until discharge and that imply a worse prognosis. Therefore, increased research on the pathophysiology and treatment of dyspnea and confusion is required, and efforts in advance care planning and anticipation of dyspnea and confusion as a critical symptom in patients with lung cancer should be reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany.
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Abstract
This article aims to provide a brief review of the literature with regard to the impact of lung cancer on patients and their informal carers. Compared to other types of cancer, the distress associated with lung cancer has been found to be the most intense. Rather than focusing on symptoms in isolation recent emphasis regarding the symptom experience has been on symptoms clusters, as understanding these clusters may improve the management of ongoing and unrelieved symptoms. However, the disparities in methodology are significant barriers to producing comparable results, although recent efforts have been made to address these. Whilst research into symptoms has enormous potential for the management of symptom clusters, it needs to move away from the essentially reductionist stance which currently dominates and broaden its scope to one that acknowledges the complexity of the experience of symptom clusters from the perspective of the patient and their informal carer. Poor management of symptoms complicates patient care and potentially contributes to the heavy burden which often falls on family caregivers, especially as the disease progresses. The majority of studies focus on the experiences of primary care providers, most often the partner/spouse. Such studies have shown that spouses of patients with lung cancer exhibit significant distress and lower levels of quality of life than the general population. Research also indicates that significant others go through a transition process due to changes brought about by the diagnosis of lung cancer and struggle to endure and overcome difficulties and distress. Significant others were seen to suffer during this process of transition and experienced altered relationships. Clinicians working with patients suffering from lung cancer and their carers should intervene to enhance their quality of life from diagnosis, during the disease trajectory and during bereavement. Interventions need to be developed to support both patients and carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Ellis
- Department of Health Service Research, Academic, Palliative and Supportive Care Studies Group (APSCSG), Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, Liverpool, UK.
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Alt-Epping B, Pache S, Lindena G, Nauck F. Anticancer therapies in specialized palliative care--a multicenter survey. Support Care Cancer 2011; 20:2385-9. [PMID: 22198166 PMCID: PMC3430838 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-011-1349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anticancer therapies gain increasing attention and discussion in specialized palliative care institutions. Frequency, indication, attitude of team members, and modes of these therapies implemented in specialized palliative care settings are still under investigation. METHODS Descriptive analysis of the nationwide Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation 2007 that collected data from palliative medicine, hospice care, and oncology institutions concerning the use of anticancer therapies. RESULTS Three thousand one hundred eighty-four patients from 67 palliative care units, eight oncology wards, and other in- and outpatient institutions were registered. Two hundred eleven therapeutic interventions, mostly i.v. chemotherapy (28.9%), have been documented in all institutions except from inpatient hospices. Although all institutions were asked to keep records from "palliative patients", those patients treated in oncology services differed from patients on palliative care units with respect to prognosis, therapeutic intention (symptom control versus tumor remission), and team attitude. DISCUSSION Anticancer therapies are incorporated into palliative care concepts. The described differences in palliative patients that are treated in specialized palliative care as compared to oncology services will have to be discussed with regard to selection of patients for specialized palliative care and the range of suitable treatment modalities in palliative care concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
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Genç F, Tan M. Symptoms of Patients With Lung Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy and Coping Strategies. Cancer Nurs 2011; 34:503-9. [DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0b013e31820b7024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Push or pull? Relationships between lung cancer patients’ perceptions of quality of care and use of complementary and alternative medicine. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2011; 15:311-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2010.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2010] [Revised: 10/11/2010] [Accepted: 10/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Pud D. Gender differences in predicting quality of life in cancer patients with pain. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2011; 15:486-91. [PMID: 21256079 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Revised: 12/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Numerous studies have identified several factors influencing quality of life (QOL) in cancer patients. However, studies on gender differences in cancer-related physical symptoms and QOL levels have yielded inconsistent results. The present study examined common symptoms (i.e., pain intensity, fatigue, and depression) in regard to their ability to predict QOL in male and female oncology patients with cancer pain. METHOD A total of 114 oncology outpatients, including 34 males and 80 females, with pain completed a demographic questionnaire, the Multidimensional Quality of Life Scale - Cancer, the Lee Fatigue Scale, the Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression Scale, and a numeric rating scale for pain intensity. RESULTS The female patients reported significantly lower psychological dimension of QOL than their male counterparts (p=0.009). Also for the females, a negative correlation was found between pain intensity and QOL (r=-0.504, p<0.0001), as well as positive correlations between pain intensity and fatigue (r=0.421, p<0.0001) and depression (r=0.368, p<0.0001). Stepwise linear regression analyses showed that among the females, QOL was significantly predicted by pain intensity as well as by depression (F((2,75))=52.62, p<0.0001, Adj. R(2)=0.57). However, among the males, depression was the only symptom found to predict QOL (F((2,30))=9.72, p<0.001, Adj. R(2)=0.39). CONCLUSION Therefore, it is concluded that gender should be considered as an additional feature for further characterizing QOL. Gender differences in factors predicting QOL warrant different clinical approaches to male and female patients, and identifying these differences may assist health care providers in tailoring treatment modalities to individual patients for optimal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorit Pud
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
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Molassiotis A, Lowe M, Blackhall F, Lorigan P. A qualitative exploration of a respiratory distress symptom cluster in lung cancer: Cough, breathlessness and fatigue. Lung Cancer 2011; 71:94-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2010.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2009] [Revised: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 04/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Schofield P, Gough K, Ugalde A, Carey M, Aranda S, Sanson-Fisher R. Cancer Treatment Survey (CaTS): development and validation of a new instrument to measure patients' preparation for chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Psychooncology 2010; 21:307-15. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.1896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 11/08/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Tishelman C, Lövgren M, Broberger E, Hamberg K, Sprangers MA. Are the Most Distressing Concerns of Patients With Inoperable Lung Cancer Adequately Assessed? A Mixed-Methods Analysis. J Clin Oncol 2010; 28:1942-9. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2009.23.3403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Standardized questionnaires for patient-reported outcomes are generally composed of specified predetermined items, although other areas may also cause patients distress. We therefore studied reports of what was most distressing for 343 patients with inoperable lung cancer (LC) at six time points during the first year postdiagnosis and how these concerns were assessed by three quality-of-life and symptom questionnaires. Patients and Methods Qualitative analysis of patients' responses to the question “What do you find most distressing at present?” generated 20 categories, with 17 under the dimensions of “bodily distress,” “life situation with LC,” and “iatrogenic distress.” Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted. Results The majority of statements reported as most distressing related to somatic and psychosocial problems, with 26% of patients reporting an overarching form of distress instead of specific problems at some time point. Twenty-seven percent reported some facet of their contact with the health care system as causing them most distress. While 55% to 59% of concerns reported as most distressing were clearly assessed by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core-30 and Lung Cancer Module instruments, the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale, and the modified Distress Screening Tool, iatrogenic distress is not specifically targeted by any of the three instruments examined. Conclusion Using this approach, several distressing issues were found to be commonly reported by this patient group but were not assessed by standardized questionnaires. This highlights the need to carefully consider choice of instrument in relation to study objectives and characteristics of the sample investigated and to consider complementary means of assessment in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Tishelman
- From the Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care; The Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge; School of Health and Social Sciences, Högskolan Dalarna, Falun; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine; Umeå Centre for Gender Studies, Research Programme
| | - Malin Lövgren
- From the Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care; The Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge; School of Health and Social Sciences, Högskolan Dalarna, Falun; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine; Umeå Centre for Gender Studies, Research Programme
| | - Eva Broberger
- From the Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care; The Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge; School of Health and Social Sciences, Högskolan Dalarna, Falun; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine; Umeå Centre for Gender Studies, Research Programme
| | - Katarina Hamberg
- From the Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care; The Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge; School of Health and Social Sciences, Högskolan Dalarna, Falun; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine; Umeå Centre for Gender Studies, Research Programme
| | - Mirjam A.G. Sprangers
- From the Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care; The Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Center, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm; Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge; School of Health and Social Sciences, Högskolan Dalarna, Falun; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine; Umeå Centre for Gender Studies, Research Programme
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, gender, and pain: a review of recent clinical and experimental findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009; 10:447-85. [PMID: 19411059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1729] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2008] [Revised: 11/04/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Sex-related influences on pain and analgesia have become a topic of tremendous scientific and clinical interest, especially in the last 10 to 15 years. Members of our research group published reviews of this literature more than a decade ago, and the intervening time period has witnessed robust growth in research regarding sex, gender, and pain. Therefore, it seems timely to revisit this literature. Abundant evidence from recent epidemiologic studies clearly demonstrates that women are at substantially greater risk for many clinical pain conditions, and there is some suggestion that postoperative and procedural pain may be more severe among women than men. Consistent with our previous reviews, current human findings regarding sex differences in experimental pain indicate greater pain sensitivity among females compared with males for most pain modalities, including more recently implemented clinically relevant pain models such as temporal summation of pain and intramuscular injection of algesic substances. The evidence regarding sex differences in laboratory measures of endogenous pain modulation is mixed, as are findings from studies using functional brain imaging to ascertain sex differences in pain-related cerebral activation. Also inconsistent are findings regarding sex differences in responses to pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic pain treatments. The article concludes with a discussion of potential biopsychosocial mechanisms that may underlie sex differences in pain, and considerations for future research are discussed. PERSPECTIVE This article reviews the recent literature regarding sex, gender, and pain. The growing body of evidence that has accumulated in the past 10 to 15 years continues to indicate substantial sex differences in clinical and experimental pain responses, and some evidence suggests that pain treatment responses may differ for women versus men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger B Fillingim
- University of Florida, College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida 32610-3628, USA.
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[Clinical care characteristics and factors associated with in-hospital mortality for lung cancer in Spain]. Med Clin (Barc) 2009; 133:8-16. [PMID: 19368941 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2008.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2008] [Accepted: 11/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Lung cancer causes high morbimortality in Spain and is currently experiencing a significant increase in women. The aim of this study was to describe differential clinical and health care characteristics by sex, as well as factors associated with and geographic differences of in-hospital mortality. MATERIAL AND METHOD Descriptive study of episodes registered in the National Hospital Discharge Minimum Basic Data Set for admission type and gender in 2005. Two logistic regression models by sex were built in order to explain the individual influence of variables on in-hospital mortality. Using predictive values of the models, standardized mortality rates were calculated to study the variation between Spanish regions. RESULTS Women presented a lower mean age, smoking habit and in-hospital mortality than men. However, women presented more adenocarcinomas, greater care in high volume centers, more surgery in readmissions and were subjected to chemotherapy more often in new admissions than men. Adenocarcinoma in men and no specific location in women were associated with higher mortality. Smoking habit and lung diagnosis procedures in men, and middle lobe location and bronchoscopy in women were associated with lower mortality. The geographical mortality pattern detected was similar in both sexes only in some regions of Spain. CONCLUSIONS Differential clinical characteristics, health care and overall results appear to exist depending on individuals' gender. Recognition of these differences are crucial in order to improve the effectiveness and equity of our health care system.
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 1-- #] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 and 1880=1880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 1-- gadu] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 8029-- -] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 1-- -] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 8029-- #] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Fillingim RB, King CD, Ribeiro-Dasilva MC, Rahim-Williams B, Riley JL. Sex, Gender, and Pain: A Review of Recent Clinical and Experimental Findings. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2008.12.001 order by 8029-- awyx] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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Abstract
During the past decade, the critical role of sleep in health and disease has been underscored by research that further defines the relationship between sleep and myriad physiologic and psychological functions as well as quality of life. For many years, there was little exploration of the significance of sleep and sleep disorders in cancer patients; however, the past decade has seen a steady growth of inquiry in this area. These investigations have demonstrated the high frequency and significance of sleep disturbance as a symptom in cancer patients. They have also explored the complex interaction between sleep and other common cancer symptoms, most notably fatigue, depression, and pain, and have identified risk factors associated with the development of sleep problems in this population. Although treatment studies lag behind, reports of effective psychological and behavioral interventions for insomnia in cancer patients are increasing. Several studies are addressing pharmacotherapeutic intervention for hot flashes as a potential source of sleep disturbance. Other sleep disorders, most notably obstructive sleep apnea, also occur with some regularity in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Sateia
- Section of Sleep Medicine, Dartmouth Medical School, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Lai EW, Perera SM, Havekes B, Timmers HJLM, Brouwers FM, McElroy B, Adams KT, Ohta S, Wesley RA, Eisenhofer G, Pacak K. Gender-related differences in the clinical presentation of malignant and benign pheochromocytoma. Endocrine 2008; 34:96-100. [PMID: 18982461 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-008-9108-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2008] [Revised: 08/21/2008] [Accepted: 08/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Signs and symptoms associated with pheochromocytomas are predominantly caused by catecholamine excess, but tend to be highly variable and non-specific. In this study, we evaluated 23 male and 35 female pheochromocytoma patients for symptoms and signs of pheochromocytoma with special regard to gender-related differences in presentation. Total symptom score comparison between genders showed significant differences (12.0 vs. 7.8, P-value 0.0001). Female patients reported significantly more headache (80% vs. 52%), dizziness (83% vs. 39%), anxiety (85% vs. 50%), tremor (64% vs. 33%), weight change (88% vs. 43%), numbness (57% vs. 24%), and changes in energy level (89% vs. 64%). Females and males displayed comparable biochemical phenotypes (60% and 65% noradrenergic phenotype, respectively). Use of alpha- and/or beta-blockade between males and females did not differ significantly. Subgroup analyses and multiple regression analysis revealed gender differences to be irrespective of benign or malignant disease, use of adrenoceptor-blockade, age and biochemical phenotype. We conclude female patients have significantly more self-reported pheochromocytoma signs and symptoms than male patients irrespective of biochemical phenotype and tumor presentation which may be related to distinct catecholamine receptor sensitivity. Clinicians should be aware of these complaints in female pheochromocytoma patients and offer adequate treatment if indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin W Lai
- Section on Medical Neuroendocrinology, Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1109, USA
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