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Bade BC, Zhao J, Li F, Tanoue L, Lazowski H, Alfano CM, Silvestri GA, Irwin ML. Trends and predictors of Quality of Life in lung cancer survivors. Lung Cancer 2024; 191:107793. [PMID: 38640687 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2024.107793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) is often impaired in lung cancer survivors. To inform personalized survivorship care, we identified associations between HR-QoL scores and patient-, tumor-, and treatment-factors over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated HR-QoL scores provided at diagnosis, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years from the Yale Lung Cancer Biorepository. HR-QoL was measured via the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Lung (FACT-L) instrument and available for a subset of patients (n = 513). Analyses were stratified by early-stage (I-II; n = 355) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), advanced stage NSCLC (III-IV; n = 158), and small cell lung cancer (SCLC, n = 21). We used mixed effects modeling and multivariable analysis with covariate adjustment to examine changes in FACT-L from diagnosis to follow-up. Sensitivity analysis was performed including patients with early-stage disease and complete FACT-L scores at both baseline and year 2 (n = 91). RESULTS The average FACT-L scores at diagnosis in early-stage NSCLC, advanced stage NSCLC, and SCLC were 121.0 (standard deviation (SD) 11.4), 109.2 (18.7), and 98.7 (20.2) respectively. At all timepoints, HR-QoL was higher in patients with early-stage NSCLC (vs advanced-stage disease). In patients with early- and advanced-stage NSCLC, HR-QoL was higher at years 1 and 2 than at diagnosis, though the changes did not meet clinical significance. At NSCLC diagnosis, higher HR-QoL was associated with older age, better performance status, participating in physical activity, adenocarcinoma histology, and (in advanced stage NSCLC) anticipated treatment with chemotherapy. At NSCLC follow-up, HR-QoL was higher in patients with higher BMI and better performance status. DISCUSSION In patients with newly diagnosed NSCLC, HR-QoL scores are impacted by patient factors, tumor factors, and treatment factors. HR-QoL is higher in patients with early-stage disease. In patients surviving 2 years, HR-QoL was higher at follow-up, though the change did not meet clinical significance. To optimize HR-QoL, lung cancer survivorship teams should prioritize comorbidity management, physical activity, healthy weight maintenance, and treatment-related side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett C Bade
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell; Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research; Northwell Health Cancer Institute.
| | | | | | - Lynn Tanoue
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine; Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine
| | | | - Catherine M Alfano
- Department of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell; Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research; Northwell Health Cancer Institute
| | - Gerard A Silvestri
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Melinda L Irwin
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine; Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health
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Ullrich A, Goldbach S, Hollburg W, Wagener B, Rommel A, Müller M, Kirsch D, Kopplin-Foertsch K, Schulz H, Bokemeyer C, Oechsle K. Specialist palliative care until the very end of life - reports of family caregivers and the multiprofessional team. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:153. [PMID: 37814271 PMCID: PMC10563273 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Specialist palliative care (SPC) includes care for incurably ill patients and their family caregivers at home or on a palliative care ward until the very end of life. However, in the last days of life, patients can rarely express their needs and little is known about SPC outcomes as reported by multiprofessional SPC teams and family caregivers. METHODS Using the Palliative Care Outcome Scale (POS; Score 0-40), proxy assessments of SPC outcomes in the patient's last 3 days of life were performed by SPC teams and primary family caregivers of three home care and three inpatient services. Additional questions were asked about problems solved 'particularly well' or 'inadequately' (last 7 days), which were content analyzed and quantified. RESULTS Proxy assessments by SPC teams were available in 142 patients (of whom 51% had died at home). Family caregiver assessments exist for a subgroup of 60 of these patients. SPC teams (POS total score: mean 13.8, SD 6.3) reported SPC outcomes slightly better than family caregivers (mean 16.7, SD 6.8). The POS items consistently rated as least affected (= 0) by both, SPC teams and family caregivers, were 'not wasted time' (team 99%/family caregivers 87%), 'information' (84%/47%) and 'support' (53%/31%). Items rated as most affected (= 4) were 'patient anxiety' (31%/51%), 'life not worthwhile' (26%/35%) and 'no self-worth' (19%/30%). Both groups indicated more problems solved 'particularly well' than 'inadequately'; the latter concerned mainly clinically well-known challenges during end-of-life care and family caregiver care. CONCLUSIONS This study shows the range and type of symptoms and other concerns reported in the patient's last days. Starting points for further improvements in family caregiver care and psychosocial and spiritual issues were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneke Ullrich
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Sven Goldbach
- Specialist outpatient palliative care team 'PalliativPartner Hamburg GbR', Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wiebke Hollburg
- Specialist outpatient palliative care team 'PalliativPartner Hamburg GbR', Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Wagener
- Specialist outpatient palliative care team 'PalliativPartner Hamburg GbR', Hamburg, Germany
| | - Annette Rommel
- Specialist outpatient palliative care team 'Das Palliativteam', Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marten Müller
- Palliative care ward, Asklepios Hospital Rissen, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Denise Kirsch
- Specialist outpatient palliative care team 'PCT Hamburg-West', Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Holger Schulz
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Oncology, Hematology and BMT, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Patel MI, Agrawal M, Duron Y, O'Brien D, Koontz Z. Perspectives of Low-Income and Minority Populations With Lung Cancer: A Qualitative Evaluation of Unmet Needs. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e1374-e1383. [DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE: Lung cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Persistent disparities remain in the incidence, mortality, and quality of lung cancer care received among minorities and populations with low income. This study aims to evaluate perspectives of low-income and minority patients with lung cancer on health system–level barriers and facilitators to high-quality lung cancer care delivery. METHODS: Informed by community-based participatory research, we conducted semistructured interviews with 48 patients with lung cancer in the San Francisco Peninsula and Central Coast regions of California. We recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants described four major structural and process barriers in current lung cancer care: unmet psychosocial support needs, lack of understanding of precision medicine, undertreated symptoms, and financial concerns about cancer, which exacerbate concerns regarding families' well-being. Participants described that trusting relationship with their cancer care team members was a facilitator for high-quality care and suggested that proactive integration of proactive psychosocial and community-based peer support could overcome some of the identified barriers. CONCLUSION: This study identified modifiable health system lung cancer care delivery barriers that contribute to persistent disparities. Opportunities to improve care include integration of community-based peer support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Madhuri Agrawal
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Palo Alto Veterans Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA
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Bade BC, Gan G, Li F, Lu L, Tanoue L, Silvestri GA, Irwin ML. "Randomized trial of physical activity on quality of life and lung cancer biomarkers in patients with advanced stage lung cancer: a pilot study". BMC Cancer 2021; 21:352. [PMID: 33794808 PMCID: PMC8015735 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08084-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer survivors need more options to improve quality of life (QoL). It is unclear to what extent patients with advanced stage disease are willing to participate in home-based physical activity (PA) and if these interventions improve QoL. The goal of our study was to determine interest in participating in our 3-month home-based walking regimen in patients with advanced stage lung cancer. We used a randomized design to evaluate for potential benefit in PA and patient-reported outcomes. METHODS We performed an open-label, 1:1 randomized trial in 40 patients with stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) evaluating enrollment rate, PA, QoL, dyspnea, depression, and biomarkers. Compared to usual care (UC), the intervention group (IG) received an accelerometer, in-person teaching session, and gain-framed text messages for 12 weeks. RESULTS We enrolled 56% (40/71) of eligible patients. Participants were on average 65 years and enrolled 1.9 years from diagnosis. Most patients were women (75%), and receiving treatment (85%) for stage IV (73%) adenocarcinoma (83%). A minority of patients were employed part-time or full time (38%). Both groups reported low baseline PA (IG mean 37 (Standard deviation (SD) 46) vs UC 59 (SD 56) minutes/week; p = 0.25). The IG increased PA more than UC (mean change IG + 123 (SD 212) vs UC + 35 (SD 103) minutes/week; p = 0.051)). Step count in the IG was not statistically different between baseline (4707 step/day), week 6 (5605; p = 0.16), and week 12 (4606 steps/day; p = 0.87). The intervention improved EORTC role functioning domain (17 points; p = 0.022) with borderline improvement in dyspnea (- 13 points; p = 0.051) compared to UC. In patients with two blood samples (25%), we observed a significant increase in soluble PD-1 (219.8 (SD 54.5) pg/mL; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our pilot trial using a 3-month, home-based, mobile health intervention enrolled over half of eligible patients with stage III and IV NSCLC. The intervention increased PA, and may improve several aspects of QoL. We also identified potential biomarker changes relevant to lung cancer biology. Future research should use a larger sample to examine the effect of exercise on cancer biomarkers, which may mediate the association between PA and QoL. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT03352245 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett C Bade
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208057 300 Cedar Street TAC - 441 South, New Haven, CT, 06520-8057, USA.
| | - Geliang Gan
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
| | - Fangyong Li
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
| | - Lynn Tanoue
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208057 300 Cedar Street TAC - 441 South, New Haven, CT, 06520-8057, USA
| | - Gerard A Silvestri
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, New Haven, USA
| | - Melinda L Irwin
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
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Grünewaldt A, Stützle S, Lehn A, Rohde G. [Dyspnoea and Comorbidity in Lung Cancer-Patients: The Therapy Starts with Taking the Patients History]. Pneumologie 2021; 75:353-359. [PMID: 33598900 DOI: 10.1055/a-1340-5609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AIM Dyspnoea is a frequent and compromising symptom in patients with advanced and metastatic lung cancer. Exogenous as well as endogenous factors contribute to development of shortness of breath. Knowledge of these influences is essential for effective treatment of this important symptom. In our study, we evaluated the influence of cofactors and comorbidity on development of dyspnoea in lung cancer patients for the purpose of effective therapy of shortness of breath in this target group. METHODS In this prospective monocentric study, we registered severity of dyspnoea in advanced lung cancer patients using the modified Medical Research Council-Scale (mMRC-scale). Patients' history of COPD and cardiopulmonary comorbidity was recorded using a standardized questionnaire. Moreover, cofactors such as pain or cancer-induced mental stress were documented by visual rating scale. RESULTS 25 (48,1 %) of 52 recruited lung cancer-patients reported moderate or severe dyspnoea. In logistic regression analysis history of COPD or cardiopulmonary comorbidity, severe pain, airway obstruction or pleural effusion were associated with severe dyspnoea (mMRC-scale ≥ 3). Furthermore, in our study cohort lower cancer level III UICC and absence of metastasis correlated with severe dyspnoea. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm the relevance of dyspnoea in patients with advanced lung cancer. Probability of occurrence is influenced by comorbidity and cofactors. The knowledge of these factors contributes to better understanding of occurrence and treatment of dyspnoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Grünewaldt
- Schwerpunkt Pneumologie/Allergologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
| | - S Stützle
- Schwerpunkt Pneumologie/Allergologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
| | - A Lehn
- Institut für Biostatistik und Mathematische Modellierung, Fachbereich Medizin, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
| | - G Rohde
- Schwerpunkt Pneumologie/Allergologie, Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
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Sung JH, Brown MC, Perez-Cosio A, Pratt L, Houad J, Liang M, Gill G, Moradian S, Liu G, Howell D. Acceptability and accuracy of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for surveillance of breathlessness in routine lung cancer care: A mixed-method study. Lung Cancer 2020; 147:1-11. [PMID: 32634651 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2020.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breathlessness in lung cancer negatively impacts on quality of life but often goes undetected and undertreated in clinical practice. There is a need for routine surveillance for early identification and proactive management of breathlessness using patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) in clinical care but it is unclear what PROMs should be used or are accurate for use in routine care. METHODS We used mixed-methods (quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews) to examine the predictors of breathlessness in 339 lung cancer participants and acceptability of PROMs. In addition to multivariate analysis to examine predictors of dyspnea, participants completed an acceptability survey and themes were derived for the qualitative data (n = 26) to explore patient experience of PROMs. We also tested the accuracy of PROMs using a Receiver Operating Characteristic and Area Under the Curve analysis. RESULTS A total of 339 patients completed the breathlessness PROMs and acceptability survey and 26 patients participated in an in-depth interview to investigate their experiences of breathlessness and its PROMs. Prevalence of breathlessness was 51.9 % (n = 176) and 70.5 % of patients preferred the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale followed by the Breathlessness Intensity (BI) scale (63.7 %) among the five measures for breathlessness- Modified Borg Scale (MBS), Cancer Dyspnea Scale (CDS), MRC, BI, and Breathlessness Distress (BD). The finding showed wide variation in the MRC grades across the BI rating even among patients with the same BI score. AUC scores for the Borg scale was 0.71 (using MRC cut-off score of < 2), for CDS, 0.72, for BD, 0.70, and for BI 0.79. For an MRC score of 2, the Borg score cut-off was 0.8 (optimal sensitivity, 50 %; specificity, 93.3 %); the cut-off score of CDS, BD, BI score was 1.4 (optimal sensitivity, 67.1 %; specificity, 70 %), 1.5 (optimal sensitivity, 57.5 %; specificity, 73.3 %), and 1.5 (optimal sensitivity, 72.6 %; specificity, 83.3 %) respectively. AUC by ROC analysis for breathlessness and modest concordance among five PROMs showed important gaps between the individuals' experience and PROMs data. Three main themes from qualitative data included 1) Making sense of symptom reporting, 2) Valuing the reported data, 3) Managing the symptom of breathlessness. CONCLUSION This study examined measurement of breathlessness using PROMs for routine clinical care and showed that severity measures alone do not accurately detect this symptomnor the experiential dimensions of breathlessness that are critical to guide appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyun Sung
- College of Nursing, Kosin University, Busan, South Korea
| | - M Catherine Brown
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrea Perez-Cosio
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laura Pratt
- Lawrence Bloomberg School of Nursing previously, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jacy Houad
- Lawrence Bloomberg School of Nursing previously, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mindy Liang
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gursharan Gill
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Saeed Moradian
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Geoffrey Liu
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Departments of Medicine and Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Doris Howell
- Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 610 University Ave., 15-617, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2M9, Canada.
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van Geffen WH, Blum TG, Aliberti S, Blyth KG, Bostantzoglou C, Farr A, Grigoriu B, Hardavella G, Huber RM, Maskell N, Massard G, Rahman NM, Stolz D, van Meerbeeck J. Continuous professional development: elevating thoracic oncology education in Europe. Breathe (Sheff) 2019; 15:279-285. [PMID: 31803262 PMCID: PMC6885339 DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0296-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The @EuroRespSoc launches a new thoracic oncology continuous professional development programme http://bit.ly/31ShuTp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter H van Geffen
- Dept of Pulmonary Medicine, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Torsten G Blum
- Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefano Aliberti
- Dept of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Respiratory Dept, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Kevin G Blyth
- Glasgow Pleural Disease Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Clementine Bostantzoglou
- 7th Respiratory Medicine Dept and Asthma Center, Athens Chest Hospital "Sotiria", Athens, Greece
| | - Amy Farr
- European Respiratory Society, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bogdan Grigoriu
- Service de médecine interne, Institut Jules Bordet, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georgia Hardavella
- 10th Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Athens Chest Diseases Hospital "Sotiria", Athens, Greece
| | - Rudolf M Huber
- Thoracic Oncology Centre Munich, University of Munich, Munich, Germany, member of the German Center for Respiratory Research (DZL-CPC-M)
| | - Nick Maskell
- Academic Respiratory Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Gilbert Massard
- Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Najib M Rahman
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, University College, Oxford, UK
| | - Daiana Stolz
- Clinic for Respiratory Medicine and Pulmonary Cell Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Kuon J, Vogt J, Mehnert A, Alt-Epping B, van Oorschot B, Sistermanns J, Ahlborn M, Ritterbusch U, Stevens S, Kahl C, Ruellan A, Matthias K, Kubin T, Stahlhut K, Heider A, Lordick F, Thomas M. Symptoms and Needs of Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer: Early Prevalence Assessment. Oncol Res Treat 2019; 42:650-659. [PMID: 31634889 DOI: 10.1159/000502751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known on symptom burden, psychosocial needs, and perception of prognosis in advanced lung cancer patients at the time of diagnosis, although early assessment is strongly recommended within the setting of daily routine care. METHODS Twelve study sites cross-sectionally assessed symptoms and psychosocial needs of patients suffering from newly diagnosed incurable lung cancer. Assessment comprised NCCN distress thermometer, FACT-L, SEIQoL-Q, PHQ-4, and shortened and modified SCNS-SF-34 questionnaires. Additional prognostic information from both patients and physicians were collected. RESULTS A total of 208 patients were evaluated. Mean age was 63.6 years, 58% were male, 84% suffered from stage IV lung cancer, and 71% had an ECOG performance status of 0-1. Mean distress level was 5.4 (SD 2.5), FACT-L total score was 86 (21.5), and TOI 50.5 (14.9). PHQ-4 was 4.6 (3.3), and shortened and modified SCNS-SF-34 showed 9 (8.7) unmet needs per patient. According to their physicians' perspective, 98.1% of patients were reflecting on and 85.2% were accepting incurability, while 26.5% of patients considered the treatment to be of curative intent. CONCLUSION Our findings emphasize substantial domains of symptom burden seen in newly diagnosed, incurable lung cancer patients. Oncologists should be aware of these features and address prognostic issues early in the disease trajectory to facilitate opportunities to improve coping, advance care planning, and appropriate integration of palliative care, thus improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Kuon
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany,
| | | | - Anja Mehnert
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Birgitt van Oorschot
- Interdisciplinary Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Sistermanns
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kliniken Maria Hilf, Mönchengladbach, Germany
| | - Miriam Ahlborn
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Klinikum Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | - Susanne Stevens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kliniken Essen Mitte, Essen, Germany
| | - Christoph Kahl
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Ruellan
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Stadtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Kathrin Matthias
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Kubin
- Department of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Traunstein, Traunstein, Germany
| | - Kerstin Stahlhut
- Ambulatory of Haematology Oncology and Palliative Care, Immanuel Klinik und Poliklinik Rüdersdorf, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Heider
- Department of Medicine 3, Klinikum Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | | | - Michael Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg TLRC-H, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Member of the German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
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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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Pieper L, Wager J, Zernikow B. Intranasal fentanyl for respiratory distress in children and adolescents with life-limiting conditions. BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:106. [PMID: 30200942 PMCID: PMC6131941 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Respiratory distress is one of the most common and frightening symptoms of children with life-limiting conditions. Because treatment of the underlying cause is frequently impossible or insufficient, in many children, symptomatic treatment is warranted. The purpose of this study was to describe the circumstances of the use of intranasal fentanyl in an acute attack of respiratory distress (AARD) in children receiving palliative care, as well as to describe outcomes and adverse events after its use. Methods Children and adolescents treated in a pediatric palliative unit or attended by a specialized home care team between 2010 and 2016 were included in this study. A retrospective chart review was conducted of those who were treated with intranasal fentanyl for an AARD. Results During the study period 16 children (0.5–18.6 years) with various life-limiting conditions were treated with intranasal fentanyl for AARD. In total, 70 AARDs were analyzed. In 74% of all AARDs, a single dose of intranasal fentanyl was used. Frequent causes for an AARD were excessive secretions and acute respiratory infection. The median starting dose of intranasal fentanyl was 1.5 μg/kg body weight. Labored breathing (96%), tachypnea (79%) and related suffering (97%) improved after treatment. An adverse event occurred in one child. Conclusions Intranasal fentanyl may be a safe and effective medication for the treatment of acute attacks of respiratory distress in children with life-limiting conditions. However, prospective studies with larger sample sizes and a control group are needed to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Pieper
- Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health - School of Medicine, Witten, Germany
| | - Julia Wager
- Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health - School of Medicine, Witten, Germany.,Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital Datteln, Dr.-Friedrich-Steiner-Str.5, 45711, Datteln, Germany
| | - Boris Zernikow
- Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Health - School of Medicine, Witten, Germany. .,Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital Datteln, Dr.-Friedrich-Steiner-Str.5, 45711, Datteln, Germany.
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Pieper L, Zernikow B, Drake R, Frosch M, Printz M, Wager J. Dyspnea in Children with Life-Threatening and Life-Limiting Complex Chronic Conditions. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:552-564. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Pieper
- Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, Datteln, and Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Faculty of Health–School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Datteln, Germany
| | - Boris Zernikow
- Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, Datteln, and Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Faculty of Health–School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Datteln, Germany
| | - Ross Drake
- Clinical Lead Paediatric Palliative Care Service, Starship children's Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael Frosch
- Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, Datteln, and Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Faculty of Health–School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Datteln, Germany
| | - Michael Printz
- Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, Datteln, and Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Faculty of Health–School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Datteln, Germany
| | - Julia Wager
- Paediatric Palliative Care Centre, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, Datteln, and Department of Children's Pain Therapy and Paediatric Palliative Care, Faculty of Health–School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Datteln, Germany
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Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of death due to malignancy. Although lung cancer mortality has been decreasing in recent years, it remains substantially higher than other causes of cancer death. Median survival for patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, defined as lung cancer involving regional lymph nodes, is estimated to be approximately 10 to 17 months, and median survival for patients with metastatic disease is only 6 to 9 months. In addition, patients with advanced lung cancer often experience debilitating symptoms and poor quality of life. Pain, dyspnea, and fatigue are most frequently reported and affect at least 65% of patients with advanced lung cancer. Given this burden of symptoms and high mortality, patients and their families facing a diagnosis of advanced lung cancer are in need of support. Palliative care, with its focus on addressing the emotional, physical, and spiritual sources of suffering utilizing the expertise of an interdisciplinary team, can provide this comprehensive support. This review describes the role of supportive and palliative care integrated into the treatment of patients with a diagnosis of advanced lung cancer with sections focused on the evaluation and treatment of pain and dyspnea, approaches to challenging communication tasks, and the support of caregivers who care for patients with advanced lung cancer.
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A Longitudinal Perspective of the Symptom Experience of Patients With Lung Cancer Near the End of Life. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2016. [DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Imaging and Clinical Characteristics Predict Near-Term Disablement From Bone Metastases: Implications for Rehabilitation. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2015; 97:53-60. [PMID: 26435301 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2015.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To distinguish which patients with bone metastases are at risk for near-term disablement in order to assist clinicians in assessing the appropriateness of referrals for rehabilitation services. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center imbedded in a tertiary medical center. PARTICIPANTS Data were collected from members (n=78) of a patient cohort (N=311) with stage IIIB or IV non-small-cell lung cancer or extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer who developed new or progressive imaging-confirmed bone metastases during the 2-year course of the study. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Functional capabilities were assessed at 3- to 4-week intervals over the study's 2-year duration with the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care Computer Adaptive Testing. RESULTS Seventy-eight participants developed new or progressive bone metastases during the study. Most were men, and 83% had non-small-cell lung cancer. Metastases were most frequently located in the ribs (n=62), pelvis (n=49), or the thoracic (n=60) and lumbar spine (n=44). While neither the number of bone metastases nor their specific location was associated with near-term changes in patient mobility, their association with pain or a focal neurologic deficit was strongly associated with large declines in mobility. Similarly, patients whose imaging studies revealed new metastases and the expansion of established metastases were more likely to lose mobility. CONCLUSIONS The total burden, specific locations, and overall distribution of bone metastases did not predict disablement. Patients with lung cancer-associated bone metastases are at markedly increased risk for declining mobility when their metastases are expanding in size and increasing in number, or are associated with pain or with new neurologic deficits.
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Weingärtner V, Scheve C, Gerdes V, Schwarz-Eywill M, Prenzel R, Otremba B, Mühlenbrock J, Bausewein C, Higginson IJ, Voltz R, Herich L, Simon ST. Characteristics of episodic breathlessness as reported by patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer: Results of a descriptive cohort study. Palliat Med 2015; 29:420-8. [PMID: 25634633 DOI: 10.1177/0269216314563428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Episodic breathlessness is one form of refractory breathlessness. Better understanding of the symptom is necessary for effective management. AIM The aim was to describe the characteristics of episodic breathlessness in patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or lung cancer. DESIGN This is a longitudinal cohort study. Outcomes were assessed monthly by up to 13 telephone interviews: peak severity (modified Borg scale: 0-10), duration, frequency, and timing of breathlessness episodes. Data from each episode were pooled and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Associations between outcomes were explored by correlation coefficients. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease classification stage III or IV) or primary lung cancer (any stage) were recruited in two inpatient units (internal medicine) and two outpatient clinics in Oldenburg, Germany. RESULTS A total of 82 patients (50 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 32 lung cancer), mean age (standard deviation) 67 years (8 years) and 36% female, were included reporting on 592 breathlessness episodes (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: 403, lung cancer: 189). Peak severity was perceived significantly higher in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients than in lung cancer patients (mean (standard deviation) Borg scale: 6.2 (2.1) vs 4.2 (1.9); p < 0.001). Episodes described by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were longer than those described by lung cancer patients (median (range): 7 min (0-600) vs 5 min (0.3-120), p = 0.002)). Frequency was similar and most often daily in both groups. Severity and frequency of episodes were correlated in lung cancer patients (r = 0.324, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION Most breathlessness episodes are short (minutes) and severe with significant differences between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer patients. Effective management strategies are warranted to improve symptom relief and coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Weingärtner
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany Institute of Palliative Care (ipac) e.V. (BMBF 16KT0951), Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Christine Scheve
- Institute of Palliative Care (ipac) e.V. (BMBF 16KT0951), Oldenburg, Germany Department of Palliative Medicine, Protestant Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Verena Gerdes
- Institute of Palliative Care (ipac) e.V. (BMBF 16KT0951), Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Regina Prenzel
- Clinic for Internal Medicine, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | | | - Juliane Mühlenbrock
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Protestant Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Institute of Palliative Care (ipac) e.V. (BMBF 16KT0951), Oldenburg, Germany Department for Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation-WHO Collaborating Centre for Palliative Care and Older People, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany Clinical Trials Unit (BMBF 01KN1106), University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany Centre for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Köln Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lena Herich
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE), University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany Institute of Palliative Care (ipac) e.V. (BMBF 16KT0951), Oldenburg, Germany Clinical Trials Unit (BMBF 01KN1106), University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany Centre for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Köln Bonn, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Guirimand F, Sahut d'izarn M, Laporte L, Francillard M, Richard JF, Aegerter P. Sequential occurrence of dyspnea at the end of life in palliative care, according to the underlying cancer. Cancer Med 2015; 4:532-9. [PMID: 25644607 PMCID: PMC4402068 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dyspnea is a symptom that severely affects the quality of life of terminally ill patients. Its frequency differs considerably between studies. We aimed to characterize the frequency of dyspnea in a palliative care hospital (PCH) and to identify factors predisposing to dyspnea, particularly during the very last days of life, as a function of the underlying disease. Episodes of dyspnea were identified by the computerized extraction of prospectively collected data from the reports of care assistants or from medical observations recorded in the medical files for all stays at our PCH during the last 6 years. There were 6455 hospital stays, 88% ending in the death of the patient; 13,282 episodes of dyspnea were recorded during 2608 hospital stays (40%). Dyspnea was more frequently observed in cases of cancer than in other conditions (RR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.14–1.48). Pulmonary metastasis increased the risk of dyspnea from 37% to 51% (RR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.29–1.46). Dyspnea frequency varied with the primary cancer site, from 24% (brain cancer) to 60% (esophageal cancer). The data for cancer patients staying for more than 6 days who subsequently died indicated that 8% of patients experienced dyspnea exclusively during the last 4 days of the life, independently of the site of the primary cancer. Dyspnea during the last few days of life requires systematic assessment. Exclusively terminal dyspnea should be distinguished from more precocious dyspnea, as the pathophysiological mechanisms and treatments of these two forms are probably different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Guirimand
- Pôle Recherche SPES ("Soins Palliatifs En Société"), Maison Médicale Jeanne Garnier, Paris, 75015, France
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Blum T, Schönfeld N. The lung cancer patient, the pneumologist and palliative care: a developing alliance. Eur Respir J 2014; 45:211-26. [DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00072514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Considerable evidence is now available on the value of palliative care for lung cancer patients in all stages and at all times during the course of the disease. However, pneumologists and their institutions seem to be widely in arrears with the implementation of palliative care concepts and the development of integrated structures.This review focuses on the available evidence and experience of various frequently unmet needs of lung cancer patients, especially psychological, social, spiritual and cultural ones. A PubMed search for evidence on these aspects of palliative care as well as on barriers to the implementation, on outcome parameters and effectiveness, and on structure and process quality was performed with a special focus on lung cancer patients.As a consequence, this review particularly draws pneumologists’ attention to improving their skills in communication with the patients, their relatives and among themselves, and to establish team structures with more far-reaching competences and continuity than existing multilateral cooperations and conferences can provide. Ideally, any process of structural and procedural improvement should be accompanied by scientific evaluation and measures for quality optimisation.
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Cross, Associate Editor KL. The Importance of Mortality. J Palliat Med 2012; 15:960-1. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2012.9565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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