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Andres EB, Yo V, Balasubramanian I, Poco L, Ozdemir S, Manalo MF, Rahman R, Putranto R, Zu WWM, Palat G, Mariam L, Tuong PN, Malhotra C. Opioid Access among Advanced Cancer Patients in Low- and Middle-Income Countries in Asia. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00842-X. [PMID: 38964427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Most cancer-associated pain is experienced in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to inequitable access to opioids. OBJECTIVE To determine opioid access as estimated by both patients and providers and to understand patient and facility-level factors influencing access among patients with advanced cancer in LMICs in Asia using the Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. METHODS The APPROACH cross-sectional study was conducted in seven LMICs in Asia, involving in-depth surveys with providers and advanced cancer patients. A hierarchical logistic regression model was used to assess predisposing (i.e. individual factors), enabling (i.e. health care system and facility-level resources) and need (i.e. pain severity) factors predicting opioid access. RESULTS Among patient participants (n=1,933), approximately 40% reported opioid use. Meanwhile 80% of facilities, as reported by providers, indicated at least half of their advanced cancer patients receive oral morphine prescriptions. Predisposing characteristics factored in the least in the model, with patient education positively associated with access (Odds ratio (OR): 1.01; 95% CI=1.00, 1.03). Facility-level enabling resources, factoring the most, included oral morphine prescription duration >14 days (OR: 1.27; 95% CI=1.05, 1.53) and the extent of physician palliative care training (extensive (>160 hours) OR: 3.95; CI=3.19, 4.88; basic (up to 40 hours) OR: 1.03; CI=1.03, 1.04). Patient need as indicated by greater pain severity predicted access (OR: 1.55; CI=1.47, 1.64). CONCLUSION Study findings emphasize the importance of palliative care training-even a minimal amount-in supporting access to opioids for advanced cancer patients. This study also highlights pragmatic site-level policies, such as extended morphine prescription durations, enabling access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Bostwick Andres
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Valen Yo
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ishwarya Balasubramanian
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Louisa Poco
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Semra Ozdemir
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Maria Fidelis Manalo
- Section of Supportive Oncology & Palliative Care, The Medical City (M.F.M.), Pasig, Philippines
| | - Rubaiyat Rahman
- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (R.R.), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rudi Putranto
- Rumah Sakit Umum Pusat Nasional (R.P.), Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Indonesia; Division of Psychosomatic and Palliative Medicine (R.P.), Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Wah Wah Myint Zu
- Clinical Research Division (W.W.M.Z.), Yangon General Hospital, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Gayatri Palat
- Department of Palliative Medicine (G.P.), MNJ Institute of Oncology and Regional Cancer Centre Hyderabad, India
| | - Lubna Mariam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (L.M.), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Pham Nguyen Tuong
- Oncology Center (P.N.T.), Hue Central Hospital, Hue City, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Chetna Malhotra
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (E.B.A., V.Y., I.B., L.P., S.O., C.M.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
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Mitrea N, Brown B, Charpentier M, Mullalli HA, Laska I, Sinani A, Banu R, Paice JA, Ancuta C. Translating Knowledge Into Clinical Practice: A Unique End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium Teleconferencing Program. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2023; 25:E109-E115. [PMID: 37535329 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
For learning to influence change in palliative clinical practice, education needs to be ongoing, incorporating specific interventions targeted to the learner, in a format that enhances knowledge and networking. This novel, online, interactive, case-based educational offering provided a method to allow ongoing integration of palliative care principles for health care professionals who attended the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium/Open Medical Institute courses in Salzburg during 2019-2022. Eight monthly teleconferences based on challenging clinical cases allowed discussion between palliative care professionals from 9 countries, serving as a mechanism for deepening theoretical information, allowing incorporation of best practice into the clinical setting, and, ultimately, improving care for all with serious illness. Many of the challenges encountered providing palliative care are universal. Through case vignettes, the group has been able to offer specific interventions, advances in practice, and discussions of approaches toward family and other health care professionals to provide optimal care. The participants report that the opportunity to learn from and support peers in other countries has been a rewarding and emotionally uplifting experience. These discussions were highly rated by participants who strongly voiced that the interactions would change their clinical practice to positively impact patient care.
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Clark J, Salins N, Daniel S, Currow DC, Jones L, Pearson M, Bunton R, Mankel J, Braithwaite C, Gilchrist MM, Johnson MJ. Views and experiences of opioid access amongst palliative care providers and public representatives in a low-resource setting: A qualitative interview study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002401. [PMID: 37733698 PMCID: PMC10513320 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Opioids (e.g. morphine) are affordable, effective interventions for cancer-related pain. However, equity of access to this key medication remains a global challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to explore views of palliative care providers and public-representatives about opioid analgesia access in two States in India. We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Transcribed audio-recordings were subjected to thematic analysis using a Framework Approach. Palliative care providers and public-representatives were purposively sampled from services reporting consistent opioid availability and prescribing (≥4kg per annum) from Karnataka and Kerala. Twenty participants (doctors (10), nurses (4), pharmacists (2), service managers (2) and public-representatives (2) were interviewed. Three themes were identified: 1) Attitudes and awareness: opioid treatments are perceived as end-of-life (last days/weeks) interventions; fears of addiction and misunderstanding of pain management goals limit access. 2) Expected and unexpected inequities: patients/carers from lower socioeconomic strata accept doctor recommendations if opioids are affordable, more educated patients/families have reservations about opioids, delay access and perceive expensive medicines as better. Non-palliative care specialist doctors have negative entrenched views and require specialist training. 3) Experiential learning-positive experiences can positively alter attitudes (e.g., participants in Kerala report improved attitudes, awareness and understanding influenced by exposure and community awareness, but experience can also reinforce perceptions as end-of-life care. Entrenched negative views are reinforced by poor experiences while positive experiences improve attitudes. To promote access, opioid prescribing must be needs-based rather than prognosis-based. Addressing the lack of training for non-palliative care workforce would help overcome a major barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Clark
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Naveen Salins
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sunitha Daniel
- York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, York, United Kingdom
| | - David C. Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Lesley Jones
- Hull York Medical School, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Pearson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Robin Bunton
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Mankel
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Braithwaite
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Marianne M. Gilchrist
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam J. Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
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Aregay A, O'Connor M, Stow J, Ayers N, Lee S. Perceptions of Barriers to Using Opioid Analgesics: A Mixed Methods Study. Palliat Med Rep 2023; 4:249-256. [PMID: 37771937 PMCID: PMC10523405 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2023.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Availability and accessibility of opioids are a worldwide problem. In low-resource settings, such as Ethiopia, access to opioids is either limited or nonexistent and legally restricted in health care settings. This study aimed to identify barriers for the availability and accessibility of opioids in Ethiopian rural and regional health care settings. Methods A mixed-method case study design was used. A total of 220 nurses from primary, secondary, and tertiary health care settings were invited to participate in a survey of knowledge and practice. For the qualitative interview, 38 participants were recruited from educational facilities, health services, and the community across a region. Results Barriers in availability and accessibility of opioid analgesics were expressing pain considered as a sign of weakness, lack of knowledge, side effect concerns about prescribing morphine, only doctors being authorized to prescribe morphine, lack of foreign currency to import morphine ingredients, and inequity in accessing morphine in hospitals and none in rural health care settings. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that opioids, particularly morphine, were not consistently available and accessible to all patients in need. Health professionals lacked knowledge about opioids. Strengthening the existing pain-free initiatives and improving the type, dose, and supply of morphine could help reduce needless suffering and enhance access to essential pain medicines for those in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsede Aregay
- Department of Health and Nursing Sciences, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
- School of Nursing, Mekelle University, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Margaret O'Connor
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission Palliative Care, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jill Stow
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, St Vincent's Private Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicola Ayers
- School of Nursing, BPP University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Lee
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Currow DC, Clark J. Pharmacological Imperialism. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:158-159. [PMID: 36724313 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David C Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joseph Clark
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, England
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Walshe C, Pawłowski L, Shedel S, Vanderstichelen S, Bloomer MJ, Goossensen A, Limonero JT, Stoelen KS, Caraffa C, Pelttari L, Scott R. Understanding the role and deployment of volunteers within specialist palliative care services and organisations as they have adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-national EAPC volunteer taskforce survey. Palliat Med 2023; 37:203-214. [PMID: 36428254 PMCID: PMC9705505 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221135349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early indications were of a major decline in specialist palliative care volunteer numbers during COVID-19. It is important that ongoing deployment and role of volunteers is understood, given the dependence of many palliative care services on volunteers for quality care provision. AIM To understand the roles and deployment of volunteers in specialist palliative care services as they have adjusted to the impact of COVID-19. DESIGN Observational multi-national study, using a cross-sectional online survey with closed and free-text option questions. Disseminated via social media, palliative care networks and key collaborators from May to July 2021. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Any specialist palliative care setting in any country, including hospices, day hospices, hospital based or community teams. The person responsible for managing the deployment of volunteers was invited to complete the survey. RESULTS Valid responses were received from 304 organisations (35 countries, 80.3% Europe). Most cared for adults only (60.9%), provided in-patient care (62.2%) and were non-profit (62.5%). 47.0% had cared for people with COVID-19. 47.7% changed the way they deployed volunteers; the mean number of active volunteers dropped from 203 per organisation to 33, and 70.7% reported a decrease in volunteers in direct patient/family facing roles. There was a shift to younger volunteers. 50.6% said this drop impacted care provision, increasing staff workload and pressure, decreasing patient support, and increasing patient isolation and loneliness. CONCLUSION The sustained reduction in volunteer deployment has impacted the provision of specialist palliative care. Urgent consideration must be given to the future of volunteering including virtual modes of delivery, micro-volunteering, and appealing to a younger demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Leszek Pawłowski
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | | | - Melissa J Bloomer
- Griffith University School of Nursing and Midwifery & Princess Alexandra Hospital Intensive Care Unit, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Joaquín T Limonero
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ros Scott
- University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
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Iqbal A, Knaggs R, Anderson C, Toh LS. Logic model for opioid safety in chronic non-malignant pain management, an in-depth qualitative study. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:220-232. [PMID: 36434367 PMCID: PMC9702900 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-022-01493-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioids are commonly used for the management of chronic non-malignant pain in Pakistan; but there is a lack of literature around precursors or motivators in the use of opioids. AIM The study holistically explored factors contributing towards the unsafe use of opioids and identifies strategies to overcome them. METHOD Exploratory qualitative methods using interviews, focus groups and non-participant observational case studies were used. Interviews and focus groups were carried out face-to-face as well as virtually and observations were conducted in community pharmacies in Islamabad and Khyber Pukhtoon Khuwa province, Pakistan. Data were collected from 4 stakeholder groups; pharmacy policy makers (n = 11), people with chronic non-malignant pain (n = 14), doctors (n = 31) and community pharmacists (n = 36) by purposive critical case sampling method. Data were analysed inductively using reflexive thematic analysis and then deductively mapped to a social ecological framework. Non-participant observations were analysed using a cross case synthesis using explanation building technique. Data from all three methods were triangulated to develop a logic model. RESULTS Identified factors at macro (regulation), meso (social perceptions of pain and opioids) and micro levels (uncontrolled pain, self-medication, health literacy) and strategies are presented holistically and were used to develop a logic model for the prevention and mitigation of factors currently causing unsafe use of opioids. CONCLUSION The study provides an in-depth view of factors contributing towards diversion of pharmaceutical opioids and can help guide national and international policy makers in their future initiatives to promote safe use of opioids in the management of chronic non-malignant pain in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Iqbal
- Division of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Roger Knaggs
- Division of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Primary Integrated Community Services, Unit H4 Ash Tree Court, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham, NG8 6PY, UK
| | - Claire Anderson
- Division of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Li Shean Toh
- Division of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
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Ghoshal A, Joad AK, Spruijt O, Nair S, Rajagopal MR, Patel F, Damani A, Deodhar J, Goswami D, Joshi G, Butola S, Singh C, Rao SR, Bhatwadekar M, Muckaden MA, Bhatnagar S. Situational analysis of the quality of palliative care services across India: a cross-sectional survey. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 16:1486. [PMID: 36819806 PMCID: PMC9934966 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2022.1486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Palliative care services in India were established in the 1980s but there is no detailed up-to-date knowledge about the quality-of-service provision nationally. We aim to describe the current quality of palliative care provision in India, as measured against nationally adopted standards. Method A digital survey adapted from the Indian Association of Palliative Care Standards Audit Tool was administered to 250 palliative care centres. Results Two hundred and twenty-three (89%) palliative care centres participated - 26.4% were government-run, while the rest include non-governmental organisations, private hospitals, community-led initiatives and hospices. About 200 centres 'often' or 'always' fulfilled 16/21 desirable criteria; however, only 2/15 essential criteria were 'often' or 'always' fulfilled. Only 5.8% provide uninterrupted access to oral morphine. Significance of the results Palliative care centres in India are falling short of meeting the essential quality standards, indicating the urgent need for new initiatives to drive national change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunangshu Ghoshal
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Center, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Anjum Khan Joad
- Department of Anaesthesia and Palliative Care Medicine, Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Odette Spruijt
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Shobha Nair
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Kochi 682041, India
| | - MR Rajagopal
- Trivandrum Institute of Palliative Sciences and Pallium India, Aisha Memorial Hospital Building, Paruthikuzhy, Thiruvananthapuram 695009, India
| | - Firuza Patel
- Department of Radiotherapy, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Anuja Damani
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Center, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Jayita Deodhar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Center, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Dinesh Goswami
- Guwahati Pain and Palliative Care Society, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India
| | - Geeta Joshi
- Community Oncology Center, Gujarat Cancer Society, Ahmedabad 380007, India
| | - Savita Butola
- Border Security Force Sector Hospital, Panisagar, Tripura 799260, India
| | - Charu Singh
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Kochi 682041, India
| | | | | | - Mary Ann Muckaden
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Center, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Sushma Bhatnagar
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesia and Palliative Medicine, Dr. B.R.A Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
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Ghoshal A, Damani A, Muckaden M, Singh P, Deodhar J, Mohanty S, Viswanath V, Grover A, Sanghavi P, Bhatnagar S. Prevalence of dyspnoea and usage of opioids in managing dyspnoea in advanced cancer patients: a longitudinal observational multi-centre study from India. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 16:1482. [PMID: 36819796 PMCID: PMC9934974 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2022.1482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Breathlessness is one of the devastating symptoms experienced by patients with advanced cancer and can be very challenging to manage. Objectives To find the point prevalence of dyspnoea in advanced cancer patients presenting to palliative care out-patient clinics, and the usage of opioids in palliation of dyspnoea. Methods We conducted a prospective observational study among all consecutive patients presenting to the outpatient clinics of six cancer centres in India from different parts of the country. In addition to routinely documented demographic and clinical data from patient charts, study investigators collected information on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, Cancer Dyspnoea Scale (CDS) and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Core 15 Palliative Care. We calculated the prevalence of dyspnoea and documented the usage of opioids in palliation of dyspnoea using tests of differences across patient characteristics. Results Between May 1, 2019, and April 30, 2020, 5,541 patients were screened for eligibility, and 288 were enrolled (48 patients from each of the six centres). We analysed the data of 288 patients, of which 36.4% had dyspnoea, with 28.5% with moderate to a severe degree (>4/10). Tiredness and loss of appetite were found to have associations with dyspnoea which were statistically significant on multivariate analysis. Standard palliative care management and routine usage of opioids preceded improvement in dyspnoea scores, CDS scores and quality of life scores throughout 7 days. Conclusion Dyspnoea is a common symptom in advanced cancer patients, presenting to outpatient clinics, and routine documentation of dyspnoea with appropriate usage of opioids helps in mitigation. Key message The article suggests that breathlessness is a common problem in advanced cancer patients and opioid prescription preceded symptom improvements in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunangshu Ghoshal
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Anuja Damani
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
| | - MaryAnn Muckaden
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Pallavi Singh
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Jayita Deodhar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Sumita Mohanty
- Regional Cancer Centre and SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha 753001, India
| | - Vidya Viswanath
- Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam 530053, India
| | - Amit Grover
- Dr. D. K. Gosavi Memorial, Siddhivinayak Ganpati Cancer Hospital, Miraj 416410, India
| | - Priti Sanghavi
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380016, India
| | - Sushma Bhatnagar
- Department of Onco-Anesthesia and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRA Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
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Practical Considerations for the Use of Cannabis in Cancer Pain Management—What a Medical Oncologist Should Know. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11175036. [PMID: 36078963 PMCID: PMC9457511 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11175036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a highly debilitating emotional and sensory experience that significantly affects quality of life (QoL). Numerous chronic conditions, including cancer, are associated with chronic pain. In the setting of malignancy, pain can be a consequence of the tumor itself or of life-saving interventions, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Despite significant pharmacological advances and awareness campaigns, pain remains undertreated in one-third of patients. To date, opioids have been the mainstay of cancer pain management. The problematic side effects and unsatisfactory pain relief of opioids have revived patients’ and physicians’ interest in finding new solutions, including cannabis and cannabinoids. The medical use of cannabis has been prohibited for decades, and it remains in Schedule 1 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations. Currently, the legal context for its usage has become more permissive. Various preclinical and observational studies have aimed to prove that cannabinoids could be effective in cancer pain management. However, their clinical utility must be further supported by high-quality clinical trials.
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Jones KF, Abdulhay LB, Orris SR, Merlin JS, Schenker Y, Bulls HW. The Relevance of State Laws Regulating Opioid Prescribing for People Living With Serious Illness. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:89-99. [PMID: 35561937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Opioids are commonly used to relieve symptoms such as pain and dyspnea in people living with serious illness. In recent years, 36 states enacted limitations for opioid prescriptions to mitigate the impact of the opioid overdose crisis. Palliative care clinicians have been vocal about the unintended consequences of opioid policies, yet little is known about how state policies apply to opioid prescribing in non-cancer-related serious illness. OBJECTIVE To summarize current state-level limitations to opioid prescribing and exemptions relevant to people living with non-cancer-related serious illness. METHODS Investigators searched publicly available laws ("[state] + opioid legislation") to extract information on opioid prescribing and exemptions. Laws were examined for application to palliative care, hospice, non-cancer-related serious illness, and language about specific symptoms was documented when applicable (e.g., pain, dyspnea). RESULTS Most state laws focused on acute pain and/or initial opioid prescriptions. Thirty-three of the thirty-six states with opioid-limiting legislation exempt situations applicable to people living with non-cancer-related serious illness. Three states did not have any exemptions relevant to people living with non-cancer-related serious illness. DISCUSSION The results indicate that while most states recognize the importance of timely opioid access for palliation of pain, clinically relevant exemptions for people living with non-cancer-related serious illness may be lacking. When present, language describing palliative care, hospice, and terminal illness exemptions is often broad and may generate confusion between primary and specialty palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Fitzgerald Jones
- William F. Connell School of Nursing (K.F.J.), Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Lindsay Bell Abdulhay
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics and Palliative Research Center, Division of General Internal Medicine (L.B.A., S.R.O., J.S.M., Y.S., H.W.B.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Steve R Orris
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics and Palliative Research Center, Division of General Internal Medicine (L.B.A., S.R.O., J.S.M., Y.S., H.W.B.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jessica S Merlin
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics and Palliative Research Center, Division of General Internal Medicine (L.B.A., S.R.O., J.S.M., Y.S., H.W.B.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yael Schenker
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics and Palliative Research Center, Division of General Internal Medicine (L.B.A., S.R.O., J.S.M., Y.S., H.W.B.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hailey W Bulls
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics and Palliative Research Center, Division of General Internal Medicine (L.B.A., S.R.O., J.S.M., Y.S., H.W.B.), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Coghlan R, Shamieh O, Bloomer MJ. Inequities of palliative care availability and access to opioids in low- and middle-income countries. Palliat Med 2022; 36:NP1-NP2. [PMID: 34310882 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211034083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Clark J, Crowther L, Johnson MJ, Ramsenthaler C, Currow DC. Calculating worldwide needs for morphine for pain in advanced cancer and proportions feasibly met by country estimates of requirements and consumption. Retrospective, time-series analysis (1997-2017). PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000533. [PMID: 36962467 PMCID: PMC10021698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Lack of access to therapeutic opioids continuing causes global health inequalities. Access to morphine for symptom control is regulated under the terms of the Single Convention on Narcotics, countries must submit annual morphine requirement estimates and report consumption to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). INCB indicates access to morphine is increasing, however, estimated needs are unreported so changing proportions of needs feasibly met by requirements and consumption are unknown. Retrospective time series-analysis taking cross-sections every five years of gaps between calculated needs for morphine for people who die from cancer and total treatable using estimates of requirements and consumption (1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017). We calculated need using INCB-recommended methods (80% of people who die from cancer require 67.5mg of morphine daily for 90 days (6.075g)) for countries reporting estimates and consumption using Global Burden of Disease cancer deaths by country. Gaps between calculated need and total treatable population using estimates and consumption were calculated. We report proportions of need feasibly met by estimates and consumption for included countries, by World Bank Income group. Global availability of morphine increased, from estimates sufficient to treat 86% of calculated needs in 1997, to 701% in 2017. However, proportion of countries estimating requirements feasibly meeting >100% of calculated needs rose only from 16% to 30%. Almost all Low-and-Middle-Income Countries submitted inadequate estimates with little change in 20 years. Consumption was lower than calculated needs at all time-points. Very few countries reported consumption greater than their estimate of requirement. Most countries submitted morphine estimates insufficient to meet analgesic needs of people who died from cancer. Estimates of requirements contextualise future Consumption, and increases in adequacy of estimates and consumption were minimal over 20 years. Annual publication of calculated morphine needs alongside estimates and consumption may be a key step to drive countries' accountabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Clark
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Crowther
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam J Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Ramsenthaler
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - David C Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
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