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Takemura N, Cheung DST, Fong DYT, Hui D, Lee AWM, Lam TC, Ho JCM, Kam TY, Chik JYK, Lin CC. Tai Chi and Aerobic Exercise on Cancer-Related Dyspnea in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024; 68:171-179. [PMID: 38729532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Dyspnea, a prevalent and debilitating symptom in patients with advanced lung cancer, negatively affects symptom burden and prognosis. Physical activity has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for managing dyspnea. OBJECTIVES This study compared the effectiveness of two widely-recognized physical activity modalities, namely Tai Chi (TC) and aerobic exercise (AE) for treating dyspnea in patients with advanced lung cancer. METHODS Patients with advanced lung cancer (n=226) were randomized into TC, AE, or control groups. There was no baseline dyspnea requirement for patients. The AE group received two 60-minute supervised sessions and home-based exercises per month, the TC group received 60-minute sessions twice weekly, and the control group received exercise guidelines for 16 weeks. The primary outcome (sleep quality) of the study has been previously reported. In this secondary analysis, we focused on dyspnea outcomes, including overall and lung cancer-specific dyspnea. Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0), 16 weeks (T1), and one year (T2). RESULTS Compared to the control group, TC significantly improved overall dyspnea at T1 (between-group difference, -8.69; P=0.03) and T2 (between-group difference, -11.45; P=0.01), but not AE. Both AE (between-group difference, -11.04; P=0.01) and TC (between-group difference, -14.19; P<0.001) significantly alleviated lung cancer-specific dyspnea at T2 compared with the control group. CONCLUSION Both TC and AE alleviate dyspnea severity in patients with advanced lung cancer, and continuous exercise can yield substantial improvements. Due to its multi-component nature, Tai Chi has a greater effect on dyspnea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Takemura
- School of Nursing (N.T., D.S.T.C., D.Y.T.F., C.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Denise Shuk Ting Cheung
- School of Nursing (N.T., D.S.T.C., D.Y.T.F., C.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Daniel Yee Tak Fong
- School of Nursing (N.T., D.S.T.C., D.Y.T.F., C.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine (D.H.), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anne Wing Mui Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology (W.M.L., T.C.L.), The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Guangdong, China; Department of Clinical Oncology (W.M.L., T.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Tai-Chung Lam
- Department of Clinical Oncology (W.M.L., T.C.L.), The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Guangdong, China; Department of Clinical Oncology (W.M.L., T.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - James Chung-Man Ho
- Department of Medicine (J.C.M.H.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Tsz Yeung Kam
- Department of Clinical Oncology (T.Y.K.), Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Jeannie Yin Kwan Chik
- Department of Clinical Oncology (J.Y.K.C.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Chia-Chin Lin
- School of Nursing (N.T., D.S.T.C., D.Y.T.F., C.C.L.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong; Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Charity Foundation Professor in Nursing (C.C.L.), Hong Kong.
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Kochovska S, Ferreira D, Chang S, Brunelli V, Morgan D, Similowski T, Johnson M, Ekström M, Currow D. Disability and long-term breathlessness: a cross-sectional, population study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2024; 11:e002029. [PMID: 39038915 PMCID: PMC11268077 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2023-002029] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disability, resulting from altered interactions between individuals and their environment, is a worldwide issue causing inequities and suffering. Many diseases associated with breathlessness cause disability but the relationship between disability and the severity of breathlessness itself is unknown.This study evaluated associations between disability using the WHO's Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0 and levels of long-term breathlessness limiting exertion. METHODS This population-based, cross-sectional online survey (n=10 033) reflected the most recent national census (2016) by age, sex, state/territory of residence and rurality. Assessments included self-reported disability (WHODAS 2.0 12-item (range 12 (no disability) to 60 (most severe disability)) assessed in 6 domains) and long-term breathlessness limiting exertion (modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) breathlessness scale; 0-4 (4-most severe)). Days in the last month affected by breathlessness were reported. RESULTS Of respondents (52% women; mean age 45), mean total disability score was 20.9 (SD 9.5). 42% (n=4245) had mMRC >0 (mMRC1 31% (n=3139); mMRC2 8% (n=806); mMRC3,4 3% (n=300)). Every level of long-term breathlessness limiting exertion was associated with greater levels of disability (total p <0.001; each domain p <0.001). The most compromised domains were Mobility and Participation.In the last 30 days, people with severe breathlessness (mMRC 3-4): experienced disability (20 days); reduced activities/work (10 days); and completely forwent activities (another 5 days). CONCLUSIONS Disability should be in the definition of persistent breathlessness as it is systematically associated with long-term breathlessness limiting exertion in a grade-dependent, multidimensional manner. Disability should be assessed in people with long-term breathlessness to optimise their social well-being and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavica Kochovska
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Diana Ferreira
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Sungwon Chang
- University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vanessa Brunelli
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deidre Morgan
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thomas Similowski
- service de pneumologie département R3S, Hopital Pitie-Salpetriere, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Magnus Ekström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund, Sweden
| | - David Currow
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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Rafael Henriques H, Correia A, Santos T, Faria J, Sousa D, Portela J, Teixeira J. Nursing interventions to promote dyspnea self-management of complex chronic patients: An integrated review. Int J Nurs Sci 2024; 11:241-257. [PMID: 38707687 PMCID: PMC11064592 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Chronic dyspnea, a distressing symptom in patients with complex chronic conditions, is linked to higher risks of mortality. This study aimed to identify nursing interventions that could improve self-management for complex chronic patients, thereby enhancing control over chronic dyspnea. The findings intend to guide nursing care strategies that promote self-management among this population. Methods We searched the databases Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) databases were searched in December 2023. We included adult patients with complex chronic conditions with chronic dyspnoea. The team screened articles collaboratively, using Rayyan software. A qualitative appraisal was performed according to JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist tools. The review protocol is registered under the number CRD42023456021. Results Our review included 18 studies that explored a variety of interventions for chronic dyspnea. We identified pharmacological interventions (such as oxygen therapy and inhalation treatments) and non-pharmacological approaches (including educational programs, breathing exercises, fluid intake management, body awareness techniques, peer support, emotional intelligence training, and the use of web applications). Those interventions empower patients, improve their ability to fulfill life roles, mitigate emotional distress, and improve overall quality of life. Nursing care can be crucial in enabling individuals to achieve independence and autonomy in self-care. Conclusions Promoting self-management for chronic dyspnea in complex chronic patients requires a holistic approach, encompassing multidisciplinary interventions, individualized self-care education, peer engagement, and technological support. Current research on self-management inadequately addresses interventions targeting patient behaviour change. It highlights the need to delve deeper into the self-management process. Further research is needed to expand the evidence base and refine these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helga Rafael Henriques
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR – Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Andreia Correia
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unidade de Hemodiálise de Torres Vedras – Nephrocare, Torres Vedras, Portugal
| | - Tatiana Santos
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unidade de Cuidados Continuados na AMETIC, Torres Vedras, Portugal
| | - José Faria
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR – Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unidade Local de Saúde São José, Cardiology Department, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diana Sousa
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR – Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Portela
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR – Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Unidade Local de Saúde da Arrábida, General Surgery Department, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Joana Teixeira
- Nursing School of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDNUR – Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Chapman TP, Farrell SM, Plaha P, Green AL, Moosavi SH. Blunted perception of breathlessness in three cases of low grade insular-glioma. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1339839. [PMID: 38410161 PMCID: PMC10894922 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1339839] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Better understanding of breathlessness perception addresses an unmet clinical need for more effective treatments for intractable dyspnoea, a prevalent symptom of multiple medical conditions. The insular-cortex is predominantly activated in brain-imaging studies of dyspnoea, but its precise role remains unclear. We measured experimentally-induced hypercapnic air-hunger in three insular-glioma patients before and after surgical resection. Tests involved one-minute increments in inspired CO2, raising end-tidal PCO2 to 7.5 mmHg above baseline (38.5 ± 5.7 mmHg), whilst ventilation was constrained (10.7 ± 2.3 L/min). Patients rated air-hunger on a visual analogue scale (VAS). Patients had lower stimulus-response (2.8 ± 2 vs. 11 ± 4 %VAS/mmHg; p = 0.004), but similar threshold (40.5 ± 3.9 vs. 43.2 ± 5.1 mmHg), compared to healthy individuals. Volunteered comments implicated diminished affective valence. After surgical resection; sensitivity increased in one patient, decreased in another, and other was unable to tolerate the ventilatory limit before any increase in inspired CO2.We suggest that functional insular-cortex is essential to register breathlessness unpleasantness and could be targeted with neuromodulation in chronically-breathless patients. Neurological patients with insula involvement should be monitored for blunted breathlessness to inform clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom P. Chapman
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah M. Farrell
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Puneet Plaha
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander L. Green
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Shakeeb H. Moosavi
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Pavy F, Torta DM, von Leupoldt A. The effect of unpredictability on the perception of breathlessness: a narrative review. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 4:1339072. [PMID: 38264214 PMCID: PMC10803486 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1339072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Breathlessness is an aversive bodily sensation impacting millions of people worldwide. It is often highly detrimental for patients and can lead to profound distress and suffering. Notably, unpredictable breathlessness episodes are often reported as being more severe and unpleasant than predictable episodes, but the underlying reasons have not yet been firmly established in experimental studies. This review aimed to summarize the available empirical evidence about the perception of unpredictable breathlessness in the adult population. Specifically, we examined: (1) effects of unpredictable relative to predictable episodes of breathlessness on their perceived intensity and unpleasantness, (2) potentially associated neural and psychophysiological correlates, (3) potentially related factors such as state and trait negative affectivity. Nine studies were identified and integrated in this review, all of them conducted in healthy adult participants. The main finding across studies suggested that unpredictable compared to predictable, breathlessness elicits more frequently states of high fear and distress, which may contribute to amplify the perception of unpredictable breathlessness, especially its unpleasantness. Trait negative affectivity did not seem to directly affect the perception of unpredictable breathlessness. However, it seemed to reinforce state fear and anxiety, hence possible indirect modulatory pathways through these affective states. Studies investigating neural correlates of breathlessness perception and psychophysiological measures did not show clear associations with unpredictability. We discuss the implication of these results for future research and clinical applications, which necessitate further investigations, especially in clinical samples suffering from breathlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Pavy
- Research Group Health Psychology, Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Younas A, Zeb H, Tejada-Garrido CI, Durante A. Social suffering in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a secondary analysis of interpretative phenomenological study. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:236-241. [PMID: 36154546 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2128195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease experience suffering that affects their families and community relationships. However, no studies provide an explicit account of social suffering among these individuals. This secondary analysis was conducted to understand the lived experiences of social suffering in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The theory of social suffering guided the analysis of an interpretative phenomenological study. Thirteen individuals were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were generated: a) prevailing hopelessness and burden, b) progressing relational adversities, and c) struggling with co-dependency. Social suffering is a complex entity experienced by the patients and the family caregivers. For enhanced caregiving, health professionals could prepare patients to tackle the suffering through collective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahtisham Younas
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Hussan Zeb
- Swat College of Nursing, Mingora, Pakistan
| | | | - Angela Durante
- Department of Nursing, University of La Rioja, Logroño Spain
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Kochovska S, Ferreira D, Chang S, Luckett T, Roydhouse J, Ekström M, Currow DC. The impact of regular, low-dose, sustained-release morphine for chronic breathlessness on caregiver burden: An exploratory analysis of the BEAMS trial. Palliat Med 2024; 38:156-162. [PMID: 37978419 PMCID: PMC10798016 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231211227] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic breathlessness adversely impacts people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their caregivers (family and friends), who may, in turn, experience significant burden due to their caregiving role. Sustained-release morphine may reduce chronic breathlessness in some patients, which may have an impact on caregivers' perceived burden. AIM To explore the impact on caregiver burden of active treatment of people with chronic breathlessness (modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) ⩾ 3) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with regular, low-dose, sustained-release morphine within a multi-site, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. DESIGN Exploratory analysis of self-reported caregiver burden at baseline and end of week 3 in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Caregiver measures included: demographics and perceived burden (Zarit Burden Interview 12-item short-form questionnaire). Patient measures included: worst breathlessness and FitBitR-measures. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS All consenting caregivers of trial patient participants in a multi-site study recruiting from palliative care and respiratory services. RESULTS Caregivers (n = 49; 59% women; median age 68 years [IQR 50-75]) reported median baseline caregiver burden 12 [IQR 5-17], with 53% reporting high burden (⩾13). Eighty-four percent of caregivers reported no change in burden. In people whose worst breathlessness improved, caregiver burden moved in the same direction, though the correlation was not significant (rs = 0.25, p = 0.17). Conversely, caregiver burden worsened as patients' minutes lightly active increased, with the correlation being significant (rs = 0.56, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Caregivers reported high levels of caregiver burden, but patients' response to treatment in terms of their symptom and function may influence change in caregiver burden over a three-week period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavica Kochovska
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Diana Ferreira
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Sungwon Chang
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Luckett
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica Roydhouse
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Magnus Ekström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Respiratory Medicine, Allergology and Palliative Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - David C Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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Prihartadi AS, Impelliziere Licastro G, Pearson M, Johnson MJ, Luckett T, Swan F. Non-medical devices for chronic breathlessness: use, barriers and facilitators for patients, carers and clinicians - a scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:e244-e253. [PMID: 34215567 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-002962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-medical devices such as the handheld fan (fan), mobility aids (wheeled walkers with seats) and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) devices offer benefits for patient management of chronic breathlessness. We examined the published evidence regarding patient, carer and clinician use of the fan, mobility aids and IMT devices for chronic breathlessness management, and the potential barriers and facilitators to day-to-day use in a range of settings. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, EBSCO and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched. Papers were imported into EndNote and Rayyan for review against a priori eligibility criteria. Outcome data relevant to use were extracted and categorised as potential barriers and facilitators, and a narrative synthesis exploring reasons for similarities and differences conducted. RESULTS Seven studies met the inclusion criteria (n=5 fan, n=2 mobility aids and n=0 IMT devices). All of the studies presented patient use of non-medical devices only. Patients found the fan easy to use at home. Mobility aids were used mainly for outdoor activities. Outdoor use for both devices were associated with embarrassment. Key barriers included: appearance; credibility; self-stigma; technical specifications. Common facilitators were ease of use, clinical benefit and feeling safe with the device. CONCLUSION The efforts of patients, carers and clinicians to adopt and use non-medical devices for the management of chronic breathlessness is impeded by lack of implementation research. Future research should improve knowledge of the barriers and facilitators to use. This would enhance understanding of how decision-making in patient-carer-clinician triads impacts on non-medical devices use for breathlessness management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Pearson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Miriam J Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Tim Luckett
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Flavia Swan
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Moran T, Zentner D, Wong J, Philip J, Smallwood N. Chronic breathlessness in advanced cardiorespiratory disease: patient perceptions of opioid use. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:e334-e343. [PMID: 33837113 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low-dose oral opioids may improve severe chronic breathlessness in advanced cardiorespiratory diseases. Prescription of opioids for breathlessness occurs infrequently however, with little known about patients' attitudes towards their use in this setting. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore patients' perceptions regarding opioids for the management of severe chronic breathlessness in people with advanced cardiorespiratory disease. METHODS A cross-sectional, qualitative study was undertaken using outpatients with severe chronic breathlessness due to either severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic heart failure (CHF). Indepth, semistructured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded. Thematic analysis was undertaken to extrapolate recurring ideas from the data. RESULTS Twenty-four participants were purposively sampled from three different groups: opioid-naïve patients with COPD (n=7), opioid-naïve patients with CHF (n=7) and patients with COPD using opioids currently or previously for severe chronic breathlessness (n=10). Four major themes were shared by both the opioid-naïve and opioid-experienced cohorts: (1) stigmatised attitudes and beliefs regarding opioids, (2) limited knowledge and information-seeking behaviour regarding opioids, (3) the impact of the relationships with health professionals and continuity of care, and (4) the significance of past experiences with opioids. An additional theme that was unique to the opioid-experienced cohort was (5) the perception of benefit and improved quality of life. CONCLUSION Lack of knowledge regarding the role of opioids in managing severe chronic breathlessness, opioid misinformation and social stigmas are major barriers to opioid therapy that may be overcome by accurate information from trusted health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Moran
- The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dominica Zentner
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James Wong
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer Philip
- The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Palliative Care Service, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natasha Smallwood
- The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Kako J, Morikawa M, Kobayashi M, Kanno Y, Kajiwara K, Nakano K, Matsuda Y, Shimizu Y, Hori M, Niino M, Suzuki M, Shimazu T. Nursing support for breathlessness in patients with cancer: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075024. [PMID: 37827741 PMCID: PMC10582874 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075024] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify nursing support provided for the relief of breathlessness in patients with cancer. DESIGN A scoping review following a standard framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. STUDY SELECTION Electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, CENTRAL and Ichushi-Web of the Japan Medical Abstract Society Databases) were searched from inception to 31 January 2022. Studies reporting on patients with cancer (aged ≥18 years), intervention for relief from breathlessness, nursing support and quantitatively assessed breathlessness using a scale were included. RESULTS Overall, 2629 articles were screened, and 27 were finally included. Results of the qualitative thematic analysis were categorised into 12 nursing support components: fan therapy, nurse-led intervention, multidisciplinary intervention, psychoeducational programme, breathing technique, walking therapy, inspiratory muscle training, respiratory rehabilitation, yoga, acupuncture, guided imagery and abdominal massage. CONCLUSIONS We identified 12 components of nursing support for breathlessness in patients with cancer. The study results may be useful to understand the actual state of nursing support provided for breathlessness in patients with terminal cancer and to consider possible support that can be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Kako
- Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu, Mie, Japan
| | - Miharu Morikawa
- Palliative Nursing, Course of Advanced Nursing Sciences, Department of Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Kobayashi
- Graduate of Nursing Science, St Luke's International University, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kanno
- Graduate School of Health Care Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kohei Kajiwara
- Faculty of Nursing, Japanese Red Cross Kyushu International College of Nursing, Munakata, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kimiko Nakano
- Clinical Research Center for Developmental Therapeutics, Tokushima University Hospital, Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Matsuda
- Department of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine, National Hospital Organization Kinki-Chuo Chest Medical Center, Sakai, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoichi Shimizu
- School of Nursing, National College of Nursing, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Megumi Hori
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Mariko Niino
- Center for Cancer Registries, Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center Japan, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miho Suzuki
- Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care, Keio University-Shonan Fujisawa Campus, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Research Center for Cancer Prevention and Screening, National Cancer Center, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Drury A, Goss J, Afolabi J, McHugh G, O’Leary N, Brady AM. A Mixed Methods Evaluation of a Pilot Multidisciplinary Breathlessness Support Service. EVALUATION REVIEW 2023; 47:820-870. [PMID: 37014066 PMCID: PMC10492442 DOI: 10.1177/0193841x231162402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Breathlessness support services have demonstrated benefits for breathlessness mastery, quality of life and psychosocial outcomes for people living with breathlessness. However, these services have predominantly been implemented in hospital and home care contexts. This study aims to evaluate the adaptation and implementation of a hospice-based outpatient Multidisciplinary Breathlessness Support Service (MBSS) in Ireland. A sequential explanatory mixed methods design guided this study. People with chronic breathlessness participated in longitudinal questionnaires (n = 10), medical record audit (n = 14) and a post-discharge interview (n = 8). Caregivers (n = 1) and healthcare professionals involved in referral to (n = 2) and delivery of (n = 3) the MBSS participated in a cross-sectional interview. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated deductively via the pillar integration process, guided by the RE-AIM framework. Integration of mixed methods data enhanced understanding of factors influencing the reach, adoption, implementation and maintenance of the MBSS, and the potential outcomes that were most meaningful for service users. Potential threats to the sustainability of the MBSS related to potential preconceptions of hospice care, the lack of standardized discharge pathways from the service and access to primary care services to sustain pharmacological interventions. This study suggests that an adapted multidisciplinary breathlessness support intervention is feasible and acceptable in a hospice context. However, to ensure optimal reach and maintenance of the intervention, activities are required to ensure that misconceptions about the setting do not influence willingness to accept referral to MBSS services and integration of services is needed to enable consistency in referral and discharge processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Drury
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Julie Goss
- Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jide Afolabi
- Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Norma O’Leary
- Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anne-Marie Brady
- Trinity Centre Practice & Healthcare Innovation, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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12
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Date K, Williams B, Cohen J, Chaudhuri N, Bajwah S, Pearson M, Higginson I, Norrie J, Keerie C, Tuck S, Hall P, Currow D, Fallon M, Johnson M. Modified-release morphine or placebo for chronic breathlessness: the MABEL trial protocol. ERJ Open Res 2023; 9:00167-2023. [PMID: 37583966 PMCID: PMC10423982 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00167-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic breathlessness, a persistent and disabling symptom despite optimal treatment of underlying causes, is a frightening symptom with serious and widespread impact on patients and their carers. Clinical guidelines support the use of morphine for the relief of chronic breathlessness in common long-term conditions, but questions remain around clinical effectiveness, safety and longer term (>7 days) administration. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of low-dose oral modified-release morphine in chronic breathlessness. This is a multicentre, parallel group, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Participants (n=158) will be opioid-naïve with chronic breathlessness due to heart or lung disease, cancer or post-coronavirus disease 2019. Participants will be randomised 1:1 to 5 mg oral modified-release morphine/placebo twice daily and docusate/placebo 100 mg twice daily for 56 days. Non-responders at Day 7 will dose escalate to 10 mg morphine/placebo twice daily at Day 15. The primary end-point (Day 28) measure will be worst breathlessness severity (previous 24 h). Secondary outcome measures include worst cough, distress, pain, functional status, physical activity, quality of life, and early identification and management of morphine-related side-effects. At Day 56, participants may opt to take open-label, oral modified-release morphine as part of usual care and complete quarterly breathlessness and toxicity questionnaires. The study is powered to be able to reject the null hypothesis and an embedded normalisation process theory-informed qualitative substudy will explore the adoption of morphine as a first-line pharmacological treatment for chronic breathlessness in clinical practice if effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Date
- Hull Health Trials Unit, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Bronwen Williams
- Hull Health Trials Unit, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Judith Cohen
- Hull Health Trials Unit, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | | | - Sabrina Bajwah
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Pearson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Irene Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - John Norrie
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Catriona Keerie
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sharon Tuck
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peter Hall
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Marie Fallon
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre (IGMM), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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13
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Johnston KN, Burgess R, Kochovska S, Williams MT. Exploring the Experience of Breathlessness with the Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation (CSM). Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1686. [PMID: 37372804 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11121686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic breathlessness is a multidimensional, unpleasant symptom common to many health conditions. The Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation (CSM) was developed to help understand how individuals make sense of their illness. This model has been underused in the study of breathlessness, especially in considering how information sources are integrated within an individual's cognitive and emotional representations of breathlessness. This descriptive qualitative study explored breathlessness beliefs, expectations, and language preferences of people experiencing chronic breathlessness using the CSM. Twenty-one community-dwelling individuals living with varying levels of breathlessness-related impairment were purposively recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with questions reflecting components of the CSM. Interview transcripts were synthesized using deductive and inductive content analysis. Nineteen analytical categories emerged describing a range of cognitive and emotional breathlessness representations. Representations were developed through participants' personal experience and information from external sources including health professionals and the internet. Specific words and phrases about breathlessness with helpful or nonhelpful connotations were identified as contributors to breathlessness representations. The CSM aligns with current multidimensional models of breathlessness and provides health professionals with a robust theoretical framework for exploring breathlessness beliefs and expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie N Johnston
- Allied Health and Human Performance, Innovation, IMPlementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT), University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Rebecca Burgess
- Allied Health and Human Performance, Innovation, IMPlementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT), University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Slavica Kochovska
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Marie T Williams
- Allied Health and Human Performance, Innovation, IMPlementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT), University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
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14
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Volpato E, Farver-Vestergaard I, Brighton LJ, Peters J, Verkleij M, Hutchinson A, Heijmans M, von Leupoldt A. Nonpharmacological management of psychological distress in people with COPD. Eur Respir Rev 2023; 32:32/167/220170. [PMID: 36948501 PMCID: PMC10032611 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0170-2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological distress is prevalent in people with COPD and relates to a worse course of disease. It often remains unrecognised and untreated, intensifying the burden on patients, carers and healthcare systems. Nonpharmacological management strategies have been suggested as important elements to manage psychological distress in COPD. Therefore, this review presents instruments for detecting psychological distress in COPD and provides an overview of available nonpharmacological management strategies together with available scientific evidence for their presumed benefits in COPD. Several instruments are available for detecting psychological distress in COPD, including simple questions, questionnaires and clinical diagnostic interviews, but their implementation in clinical practice is limited and heterogeneous. Moreover, various nonpharmacological management options are available for COPD, ranging from specific cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to multi-component pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programmes. These interventions vary substantially in their specific content, intensity and duration across studies. Similarly, available evidence regarding their efficacy varies significantly, with the strongest evidence currently for CBT or PR. Further randomised controlled trials are needed with larger, culturally diverse samples and long-term follow-ups. Moreover, effective nonpharmacological interventions should be implemented more in the clinical routine. Respective barriers for patients, caregivers, clinicians, healthcare systems and research need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Volpato
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy
- Shared first authorship
| | | | - Lisa Jane Brighton
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jeannette Peters
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Verkleij
- Department of Paediatric Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Monique Heijmans
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (Nivel), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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15
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O'Connell S, Queally M, Savage E, Murphy DM, Mc Carthy VJC. Preferences for support in managing symptoms of an asthma flare-up: a pilot study of a discrete choice experiment. J Asthma 2023; 60:393-402. [PMID: 35748303 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2022.2054429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Information on the preferences of people with asthma for support in managing a flare-up can inform service design which may facilitate appropriate help-seeking. To date, little is known about support preferences for managing a flare-up. The aim of this study was to develop and pilot a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to elicit the preferences of people with asthma with regards to support in managing a flare-up.Methods: Steps in developing the DCE included identification and selection of attributes and levels of the support services, construction of choice tasks, experimental design, construction of DCE instrument, and pretest (n=16) and pilot (n=38) studies of the DCE instrument. A multinomial logit model was used to examine the strength and direction of the six attributes in the pilot study.Results: Our results indicate that from a patient perspective, having a healthcare professional that listens to their concerns was the most valued attribute of support in asthma flare-up management. The other features of support valued by participants were timely access to consultation, a healthcare professional with knowledge of their patient history, a specialist doctor and face-to-face communication. Having a written action plan was the least valued attribute.Conclusions: Our findings suggest patient preference for a model of support in managing their symptoms which includes timely, face-to-face access to a healthcare professional that knows them and listens to their concerns. The findings of the pilot study need to be verified with a larger sample and using models to account for preference heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena O'Connell
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michelle Queally
- Department of Enterprise and Technology, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eileen Savage
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Desmond M Murphy
- The Department of Respiratory Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland.,HRB Clinical Research Facility, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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16
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Breathlessness is a common, distressing, and limiting symptom that many people avoid by reducing their activity. This review discusses exertional tests that can be used for uncovering and assessing breathlessness depending on the person's severity of illness, function, the setting, and aim of the assessment. RECENT FINDINGS Standardized exertional tests are useful to uncover 'hidden' breathlessness earlier in people who may have adapted their physical activity to limit their breathing discomfort. In 'more fit' ambulatory people and outpatients, cardiopulmonary exercise testing is the gold standard for assessing symptom severity, underlying conditions, and mechanisms and treatment effects. Among field tests, the 6-min walk test is not useful for assessing breathlessness. Instead, the 3-min step test and walk test are validated for measuring breathlessness change in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In people with more severe illness (who are most often not breathless at rest), reported tests include upper limb exercise or counting numbers aloud, but a valid and useful test for this population is lacking. SUMMARY A framework for selecting the most appropriate test to assess breathlessness validly is proposed, and research needs are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Ekström
- Lund University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine, Allergology and Palliative Medicine, Lund, Sweden
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17
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A New Normality Illuminated by Past and Present! A Qualitative Study: Experiences and Challenges of Everyday Life in Patients With Advanced Heart or Lung Failure. Glob Qual Nurs Res 2022; 9:23333936221140374. [PMCID: PMC9716626 DOI: 10.1177/23333936221140374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to gain insight into the phenomena of everyday life as experienced and coped with by patients living with advanced heart or lung failure. We employed a qualitative design using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach. Data derived from 10 nursing consultations in a holistic setting. Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation inspired the text analysis. The study emphasizes time (past, present, and future) as an overall everyday life theme, playing an essential role associated with improvements or poor outcomes related to physical, mental, and intersubjective challenges. Patients accepted and lived with the challenges, experiencing changes, as transition, but also coped with their new normal, which involved improvements or poor outcomes, some invisible to the community. Assumptions about everyday life changed significantly, the changes possibly essential for intersubjective relations. A reflective approach, can help patients to evolve, using knowledge from the past and present to cope with the future.
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18
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Borge CR, Larsen MH, Osborne RH, Engebretsen E, Andersen MH, Holter IA, Leine M, Wahl AK. Exploring patients' and health professionals' perspectives on health literacy needs in the context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Chronic Illn 2022; 18:549-561. [PMID: 33705224 DOI: 10.1177/1742395321999441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) require complex follow-up by healthcare professionals (HCPs) and may experience several health literacy (HL) needs. This study aimed to explore such needs in people with COPD and the HCPs who care for them. METHODS From October 2016 to August 2017 a qualitative study with four focus groups (FG) were performed in people with COPD (n = 14) and three in multidisciplinary HCPs (n = 21). An inductive thematic analysis was used to investigate HL needs. RESULTS Four HL needs emerged: 1) strengthening the feeling of security; 2) combating the burden of insufficient knowledge on COPD and lack of informational flow; 3) supporting motivation for endurance and self-management; and 4) strengthening dignity. DISCUSSION This study highlights a gap between people with COPD who express important HL needs and HCPs' capabilities to care for these needs. For HCPs to increase HL in such cases, HCPs need to improve their own HL. It is essential to find solutions on how to improve HL in HCPs who care for people with COPD and to increase the availability of interventions that increase HL in COPD. Education programs, health organizations, and governments should be aware of HL needs in such situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Borge
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marie H Larsen
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Richard H Osborne
- Centre of Global Health and Equity, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Eivind Engebretsen
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marit H Andersen
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Astrid K Wahl
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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19
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Systematic review of effectiveness and quality assessment of patient education materials and decision aids for breathlessness. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:237. [PMID: 35725454 PMCID: PMC9208236 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-022-02032-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Around 10% of adults suffer from clinically significant breathlessness. High quality and actionable patient education materials (PEMs) and patient decision aids (PDAs) have an important role for shared decision making and patient self-management. OBJECTIVE To systematically assess the effectiveness of patient education materials (PEMs) and patient decision aids (PDAs) on clinical outcomes. Secondly, to assess the quality of PEMs and PDAs for breathlessness that are accessible online. METHODS A systematic review of PEM or PDA intervention for breathlessness published between 1 January 2010 and November 2020 was conducted. An environmental scan and quality assessment of publicly available PEMs and PDAs was also conducted. RESULTS Out of 2985 records, five studies were eligible for inclusion in this systematic review. Results of two randomised controlled trials suggest potential effectiveness of PEMs to improve patient reported outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. In the environmental scan, 88 materials were included. Minimum reading age for most was high (Grade 10) and PEMs scored an average of 87% for understandability and 67% for actionability. Based on the DISCERN tool only 10 were classified as high quality. CONCLUSION There is a paucity of evidence on the effectiveness of PEMs and PDAs for improvement in breathlessness. There is a need to develop higher quality PEMs for breathlessness.
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20
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Bradley G, Rooney L, Whitehead PJ. Service user perspectives on engagement in an occupational therapy-led pulmonary rehabilitation programme: A qualitative interview study. Br J Occup Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/03080226221103155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an intervention for people with chronic respiratory conditions. There are questions about which components are important to its success, including the nature of occupational therapy involvement. The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of people who had attended an occupational therapy-led PR programme in the United Kingdom to determine the most important components. Method Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with service users who had experience of a community-based PR programme. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using the framework analysis method with three researchers contributing to the analysis. Findings Nine people took part in the interviews, with a mean age of 72 years. Four themes were identified which were organised around the concepts of Doing, Being, Becoming Belonging. These were ‘Doing exercise and physical activity’, ‘being breathless’, ‘belonging as an individual within the group’ and ‘becoming a person who lives with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease’. Conclusion Doing physical activity, whilst coping with being breathless and belonging as an individual within a group can positively influence experiences and perceived outcomes during and after PR. These dimensions have the potential to shape occupation-focussed PR programmes and the occupational therapy contribution in this area of practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Bradley
- Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Leigh Rooney
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Phillip J Whitehead
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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21
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Ferreira D, Kochovska S, Honson A, Phillips J, Currow D. Patients’ and their caregivers’ experiences with regular, low-dose, sustained-release morphine for chronic breathlessness associated with COPD: a qualitative study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2022; 9:9/1/e001210. [PMID: 35606022 PMCID: PMC9125765 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2022-001210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Regular, low-dose, sustained-release morphine is effective in reducing chronic breathlessness in people with advanced disease, particularly in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite experiencing a reduction in breathlessness, some patients choose not to continue long-term treatment. Aim This study aimed to explore patients’ and caregivers’ experiences with regular, low-dose, sustained-release morphine for chronic breathlessness associated with COPD. Methods A qualitative study embedded in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of regular low-dose, sustained-release morphine for chronic breathlessness for people with COPD and modified Medical Research Council breathlessness scale 3–4. After completing the RCT or withdrawing, patients and their caregivers were invited to participate in interviews in their homes focused on their experiences with the trial medication while still blinded to the arm to which they had been allocated. Data analysis used a constant comparative method informed by the principles of grounded theory. Results Thirteen patients and nine caregivers participated. Four themes were identified: (1) Receptivity and knowledge; (2) Function as a priority; (3) Harmful and helpful side effects; and (4) Therapy-centred aspects. The concept of ‘net effect’ emerged from the interplay between themes, subthemes and the decision to continue taking sustained-release morphine during the trial and after trial completion. Conclusion Clinicians’ support and preconceived ideas about morphine influence the decision to commence sustained-release morphine. The hope for functional improvement is the great driver influencing positively the decision to take sustained-release morphine in the long term. The degree of symptom reduction, improved function, side-effects’ severity and caregivers’ availability creates a net effect driving patients’ decisions to continue or discontinue the medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Ferreira
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Slavica Kochovska
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aaron Honson
- Palliative Care Clinical Studies Collaborative (PaCCSC), Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jane Phillips
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Kochovska S, Currow D, Chang S, Johnson M, Ferreira D, Morgan D, Olsson M, Ekström M. Persisting breathlessness and activities reduced or ceased: a population study in older men. BMJ Open Respir Res 2022; 9:9/1/e001168. [PMID: 35606021 PMCID: PMC9125752 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2021-001168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breathlessness is debilitating and increases in prevalence with age, with people progressively reducing their everyday activities to ‘self-manage’ it. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of breathlessness on function in terms of activities that have been reduced or ceased (‘compromised’) in older men. Methods A cross-sectional postal survey of Swedish 73-year-old man in the VAScular and Chronic Obstructive Lung disease study self-reporting on demographics, breathlessness (modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale, Dyspnoea-12, Multidimensional Dyspnea Scale) and its duration, anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), performance status (WHO Performance Status), everyday activities reduced/ceased and exertion. Results 148/828 (17.9%) respondents reported breathlessness (mMRC >2), of whom 51.9% had reduced/ceased activities compared with 9.6% who did not. Physical activity was the most common activity reduced/ceased (48.0%) followed by sexual activity (41.2%) and social activities (37.8%). Of 16.0% of respondents with mMRC 3–4 talking on the phone was affected compared with only 2.9% of respondents with mMRC 2. Worsening breathlessness was associated with increasingly sedentary lifestyles and more limited function, those reporting reduced/ceased activities had an associated increase in reporting anxiety and depression. In adjusted analyses, breathlessness was associated with increased likelihood of activities being ceased overall as well as physical and sexual activities being affected separately. Conclusion Worsening breathlessness was associated with decreasing levels of self-reported physical activity, sexual activity and function. Overall, the study showed that people with persisting breathlessness modify their lifestyle to avoid it by reducing or ceasing a range of activities, seeking to minimise their exposure to the symptom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavica Kochovska
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Currow
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sungwon Chang
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Diana Ferreira
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deidre Morgan
- Palliative and Supportive Services, RePaDD, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Max Olsson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ekström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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23
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McNarry MA, Berg RMG, Shelley J, Hudson J, Saynor ZL, Duckers J, Lewis K, Davies GA, Mackintosh KA. Inspiratory Muscle Training Enhances Recovery Post COVID-19: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Eur Respir J 2022; 60:13993003.03101-2021. [PMID: 35236727 PMCID: PMC8900538 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.03101-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Many people recovering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) experience prolonged symptoms, particularly breathlessness. We urgently need to identify safe and effective COVID-19 rehabilitative strategies. The aim of the current study was to investigate the potential rehabilitative role of inspiratory muscle training (IMT). Methods 281 adults (age 46.6±12.2 years; 88% female) recovering from self-reported COVID-19 (9.0±4.2 months post-acute infection) were randomised 4:1 to an 8-week IMT or a “usual care” waitlist control arm. Health-related quality-of-life and breathlessness questionnaires (King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease (K-BILD) and Transition Dyspnoea Index (TDI)), respiratory muscle strength, and fitness (Chester Step Test) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The primary end-point was K-BILD total score, with the K-BILD domains and TDI being key secondary outcomes. Results According to intention to treat, there was no difference between groups in K-BILD total score post-intervention (control: 59.5±12.4; IMT: 58.2±12.3; p<0.05) but IMT elicited clinically meaningful improvements in the K-BILD domains for breathlessness (control: 59.8±12.6; IMT: 62.2±16.2; p<0.05) and chest symptoms (control: 59.2±18.7; IMT: 64.5±18.2; p<0.05), along with clinically meaningful improvements in breathlessness according to TDI (control: 0.9±1.7 versus 2.0±2.0; p<0.05). IMT also improved respiratory muscle strength and estimated aerobic fitness. Conclusions IMT may represent an important home-based rehabilitation strategy for wider implementation as part of COVID-19 rehabilitative strategies. Given the diverse nature of long COVID, further research is warranted on the individual responses to rehabilitation; the withdrawal rate herein highlights that no one strategy is likely to be appropriate for all. IMT can significantly improve breathlessness and respiratory muscle function in people with long COVID, and represents an effective, home-based rehabilitation strategy that could be widely implemented as part of COVID-19 recovery strategieshttps://bit.ly/3HiEyz0
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Affiliation(s)
- Melitta A McNarry
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Ronan M G Berg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Centre for Physical Activity Research, and Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Copenhagen - Rigshospitalet, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - James Shelley
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Joanne Hudson
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Zoe L Saynor
- Physical Activity, Health and Rehabilitation Thematic Research Group Lead, School of Sport, Health and Exercise Science, Faculty of Science and Health, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Jamie Duckers
- All Wales Adult CF Centre, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Keir Lewis
- Hywel Dda University Health Board, Llanelli, UK.,School of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | | | - Kelly A Mackintosh
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
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24
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Olsson M, Currow DC, Johnson MJ, Sandberg J, Engström G, Ekström M. Prevalence and severity of differing dimensions of breathlessness among elderly males in the population. ERJ Open Res 2021; 8:00553-2021. [PMID: 35141316 PMCID: PMC8819243 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00553-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathlessness is common in the general population. Existing data were obtained primarily with the uni-dimensional modified Medical Research Council breathlessness scale (mMRC) that does not assess intensities of unpleasantness nor physical, emotional and affective dimensions. The aim of this research was to determine the prevalence and intensity of these dimensions of breathlessness in elderly males and any associations with their duration, change over time and mMRC grade. We conducted a population-based, cross-sectional study of 73-year-old males in a county in southern Sweden. Breathlessness was self-reported at one time point using a postal survey including the Dyspnea-12 (D-12), the Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile (MDP) and the mMRC. Presence of an increased dimension score was defined as a score ≥minimal clinically important difference for each dimension scale. Association with the mMRC, recalled change since age 65, and duration of breathlessness were analysed with linear regression. Among 907 men, an increased dimension score was present in 17% (D-12 total score), 33% (MDP A1 unpleasantness), 19% (D-12 physical), 17% (MDP immediate perception), 10% (D-12 affective) and 17% (MDP emotional response). The unpleasantness and affective dimensions were strongly associated with mMRC≥3. Higher MDP and D-12 scores were associated with worsening of breathlessness since age 65, and higher MDP A1 unpleasantness was associated with breathlessness of less than 1 year duration. Increased scores of several dimensions of breathlessness are prevalent in 73-year-old males and are positively correlated with mMRC scores, worsening of breathlessness after age 65, and duration of less than 1 year. This first epidemiological study of multidimensional breathlessness shows that unpleasant, physical, affective and emotional experiences of breathlessness are common among elderly males, and are strongly associated with mMRC ≥3https://bit.ly/3EThp5a
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25
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Eassey D, Reddel HK, Ryan K, Smith L. Living with severe asthma: the role of perceived competence and goal achievement. Chronic Illn 2021; 17:416-432. [PMID: 31653174 DOI: 10.1177/1742395319884104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The overall aim of this study was to examine, among individuals living with severe asthma, the role of perceived competence in achieving their goals. METHODS Qualitative research methods were used to conduct in-depth semistructured interviews. Interviews were video and/or audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed inductively and deductively, informed by the self-determination theory construct of perceived competence. Thirty-six face-to-face interviews, lasting 1.5-4 h, were conducted across Australia. RESULTS Feeling competent to achieve asthma goals played a role in participants' ability to achieve broader goals. Their desire to achieve their broader goals was strongly driven by their perceived ability to master managing their condition, which at times required more than medical strategies. Two main themes were discerned from the analysis: (1) learning how to look after yourself: self-care is important and (2) reaching an agreement with severe asthma: being at one with the illness. DISCUSSION This study highlighted the influence of perceived competence on self-management and goal achievement in severe asthma. Healthcare providers could explore patients' perceived competence to set and achieve goals, as a self-management strategy. Future research should consider these findings when developing and implementing patient-driven, self-management interventions for those living with severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Eassey
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Helen K Reddel
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kath Ryan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Lorraine Smith
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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26
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Howell D. Enabling patients in effective self-management of breathlessness in lung cancer: the neglected pillar of personalized medicine. Lung Cancer Manag 2021; 10:LMT52. [PMID: 34899992 PMCID: PMC8656340 DOI: 10.2217/lmt-2020-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, engagement of patients in the self management of disease and symptom problems has become a health policy priority to improve health outcomes in cancer. Unfortunately, little attention has been focused on the provision of self-management support (SMS)in cancer and specifically for complex cancer symptoms such as breathlessness. Current management of breathlessness, which includes treatment of underlying disease, pharmacological agents to address comorbidities and opiates and anxiolytics to change perception and reduce the sense of breathing effort, is inadequate. In this perspective paper, we review the rationale and evidence for a structured, multicomponent SMS program in breathlessness including four components: breathing retraining, enhancing positive coping skills, optimizing exertional capacity and reducing symptom burden and health risks. The integration of SMS in routine lung cancer care is essential to improve breathlessness, reduce psychological distress, suffering and improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Howell
- Princess Margaret Cancer Research Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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27
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Cristea L, Olsson M, Currow D, Johnson M, Sandberg J, Ekström M. Breathlessness dimensions association with physical and mental quality of life: the population based VASCOL study of elderly men. BMJ Open Respir Res 2021; 8:8/1/e000990. [PMID: 34740943 PMCID: PMC8573661 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2021-000990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breathlessness is a multidimensional symptom prevalent in elderly affecting many aspects of life. We aimed to determine how different dimensions of breathlessness are associated with physical and mental quality of life (QoL) in elderly men. Methods This was a cross-sectional, population-based analysis of 672 men aged 73 years in a Swedish county. Breathlessness was assessed using Dyspnoea-12 (D-12) and Multidimensional Dyspnoea Profile (MDP), and QoL using the Short Form 12 physical and mental scores. Scores were compared as z-scores across scales and analysed using multivariable linear regression, adjusted for smoking, body mass index and the presence of respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Results Worse breathlessness was related to worse physical and mental QoL across all the D-12 and MDP dimension scores. Physical QoL was most strongly associated with perceptional breathlessness scores, D-12 total and physical scores (95% CI −0.45 to −0.30). Mental QoL was more strongly influenced by affective responses, MDP emotional response score (95% CI −0.61 to −0.48). Head-to-head comparison of the instruments confirmed that D-12 total and physical scores most influenced physical QoL, while mental QoL was mostly influenced by the emotional responses captured by the MDP. Conclusion Breathlessness dimensions and QoL measures are associated differently. Physical QoL was most closely associated with sensory and perceptual breathlessness dimensions, while emotional responses were most strongly associated with mental QoL in elderly men. D-12 and MDP contribute complimentary information, where affective and emotional responses may be related to function, deconditioning and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Cristea
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Max Olsson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - David Currow
- Faculty of Heath, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Hull York Medical School, The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Jacob Sandberg
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Lunds Universitet, Lund, Sweden
| | - Magnus Ekström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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28
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Schunk M, Berger U, Le L, Rehfuess E, Schwarzkopf L, Streitwieser S, Müller T, Hofmann M, Holle R, Huber RM, Mansmann U, Bausewein C. BreathEase: rationale, design and recruitment of a randomised trial and embedded mixed-methods study of a multiprofessional breathlessness service in early palliative care. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00228-2020. [PMID: 34671668 PMCID: PMC8521025 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00228-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Munich Breathlessness Service has adapted novel support services to the German context, to reduce burden in patients and carers from breathlessness in advanced disease. It has been evaluated in a pragmatic fast-track randomised controlled trial (BreathEase; NCT02622412) with embedded qualitative interviews and postal survey. The aim of this article is to describe the intervention model and study design, analyse recruitment to the trial and compare sample characteristics with other studies in the field. Methods Analysis of recruitment pathways and enrolment, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of participants and carers. Results Out of 439 people screened, 253 (58%) were offered enrolment and 183 (42%) participated. n=97 (70%) carers participated. 186 (42%) people did not qualify for inclusion, mostly because breathlessness could not be attributed to an underlying disease. All participants were self-referring; 60% through media sources. Eligibility and willingness to participate were associated to social networks and illness-related activities as recruitment routes. Mean age of participants was 71 years (51% women), with COPD (63%), chronic heart failure (8%), interstitial lung disease (9%), pulmonary hypertension (6%) and cancer (7%) as underlying conditions. Postal survey response rate was 89%. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 patients and nine carers. Conclusion The BreathEase study has a larger and more heterogeneous sample compared to other trials. The self-referral-based and prolonged recruitment drawing on media sources approximates real-world conditions of early palliative care. Integrating qualitative and quantitative components will allow a better understanding and interpretation of the results of the main effectiveness study. The BreathEase study, a mixed-methods pragmatic RCT evaluating the Munich Breathlessness Service, included a heterogeneous sample that approximates real-world conditions of early palliative care, and ran qualitative and quantitative trial siblingshttps://bit.ly/375nCMO
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Schunk
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, LMU Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Ursula Berger
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lien Le
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Eva Rehfuess
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Larissa Schwarzkopf
- Health Economics and Health Care Management (IGM), Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany.,Institut für Therapieforschung, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Müller
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miriam Hofmann
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rolf Holle
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Health Economics and Health Care Management (IGM), Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Maria Huber
- Dept of Medicine V, LMU Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Member of the German Center of Lung Research (DZL, CPC-M), Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Mansmann
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, LMU Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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29
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Currow DC, Chang S, Ekström M, Hutchinson A, Luckett T, Kochovska S, Hay P, Touyz S, Dal Grande E, Johnson MJ. Health service utilisation associated with chronic breathlessness: random population sample. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00415-2021. [PMID: 34651042 PMCID: PMC8503326 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00415-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most health service utilisation studies are of people with specific diagnoses or demographic characteristics, and rarely of specific chronic symptoms. The aim of this study was to establish whether population-level health service utilisation increases in people with chronic breathlessness. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis was carried out of the South Australian Health Omnibus Survey 2017, a multi-stage, clustered area, systematic sampling survey of adults where questions are administered face-to-face in respondents' homes. Self-report of health service utilisation in the previous 3 months (medical consultations, emergency department, hospital admission), chronic breathlessness (severity, duration, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) breathlessness scale) and demographic data were used to predict self-reported health service utilisation. RESULTS A total of 2898 people were included (49.0% male; median age 48.0 years (IQR 32.0-63.0); 64.1% educated beyond school; 55.4% in work; 73.5% had outpatient contact; 6.3% had a hospital admission in the previous 3 months). Chronic breathlessness (mMRC ≥1) was reported by 8.8% of respondents. In bivariable analyses, people with greater contact with health services were older, and a higher proportion were overweight/obese and had more severe chronic breathlessness. In multivariable analyses, chronic breathlessness and older age were positively associated with outpatient care and inpatient care, and people with chronic breathlessness were hospitalised for longer (incidence rate ratio 2.5; 95% CI 1.4-4.5). CONCLUSION There is a significant association between worse chronic breathlessness and increased health service utilisation. There is a need for greater understanding of factors that initiate contact with health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C. Currow
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Sungwon Chang
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Magnus Ekström
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Dept of Clinical Sciences, Division of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ann Hutchinson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Tim Luckett
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Slavica Kochovska
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith South, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Touyz
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Miriam J. Johnson
- IMPACCT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Dept of Clinical Sciences, Division of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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30
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Targeting exertional breathlessness to improve physical activity: the role of primary care. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2021; 31:41. [PMID: 34504091 PMCID: PMC8429707 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-021-00254-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By working together with patients to target exertional breathlessness and increase physical activity, PCPs have an important role to play, early in the disease course, in improving patient outcomes in both the short and long term. In this article, we consider how physical activity affects disease progression from the PCP perspective. We discuss the role of pharmacological therapy, the importance of an holistic approach and the role of PCPs in assessing and promoting physical activity. The complexity and heterogeneity of COPD make it a challenging disease to treat. Patients' avoidance of activity, and subsequent decline in capacity to perform it, further impacts the management of the disease. Improving patient tolerance of physical activity, increasing participation in daily activities and helping patients to remain active are clear goals of COPD management. These may require an holistic approach to management, including pulmonary rehabilitation and psychological programmes in parallel with bronchodilation therapy, in order to address both physiological and behavioural factors. PCPs have an important role to optimise therapy, set goals and communicate the importance of maintaining physical activity to their patients. In addition, optimal treatment that addresses activity-related breathlessness can help prevent the downward spiral of inactivity and get patients moving again, to improve their overall health and long-term prognosis.
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31
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O'Connell S, McCarthy VJ, Savage E. Self-management support preferences of people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Chronic Illn 2021; 17:283-305. [PMID: 31426658 DOI: 10.1177/1742395319869443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To synthesise findings from qualitative studies on the preferences of people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for self-management support. METHODS A thematic synthesis of literature was carried out. Six databases (ASSIA, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Psychology and the Behavioural Sciences and SSCI) were used to search for qualitative studies eliciting perspectives of adults with asthma and/or COPD on self-management support, published between May 2008 and April 2018. RESULTS A total of 968 articles were retrieved across databases, with 15 articles included in the synthesis. Three themes were identified: Types of Support described the range of supports valued by participants in the studies, particularly education provided by competent healthcare professionals; The Support Relationship highlighted the importance of a collaborative relationship with one's healthcare professional which was characterised by communication, trust and continuity over time and Accessibility identified the considerations of participants relating to physically accessible, prompt support which is provided in a format preferred by the individual. DISCUSSION Increased understanding of patients' preferences may provide insight which can be used to enhance engagement with self-management support. Further research needs to examine self-management support preferences outside the context of evaluating interventions for people with asthma/COPD and needs to address the optimal means of enhancing accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena O'Connell
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Vera Jc McCarthy
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eileen Savage
- Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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32
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Zeb H, Younas A, Ahmed I, Ali A. Self-care experiences of Pakistani patients with COPD and the role of family in self-care: A phenomenological inquiry. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:e174-e183. [PMID: 33368825 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Self-care enables patients in improving quality of life and reducing hospital admissions. Research explored the experiences of patients about breathlessness, sleep problems and complication management in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the self-care experiences and the role of the family in self-care are underexplored. This study aimed to understand the self-care experiences of patients with COPD and explore the role of the family in self-care. An interpretive phenomenological inquiry was used, and 13 patients were interviewed in 2019 from two hospitals in Pakistan. The inclusion criteria were patients above 30 years of age at any stage of COPD, who received a confirmed diagnosis of COPD and were receiving the treatment, and engaged in self-care at their homes or communities. The interviews lasted for 35-60 min. Ricoeur's interpretation theory was used for data analysis comprising steps explanation, naive understanding and in-depth understanding. Self-care emerged as a complex individual and familial endeavour affected by personal, social and economic factors. Poverty was one of the core determinants of self-care. Patients emphasised the spiritual, cultural and traditional approaches to self-care. Future research is warranted to develop better understanding of spiritual and cultural self-care and how these dimensions of self-care affect patients' self-care behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussan Zeb
- Swat College of Nursing, Swat, Pakistan
- Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Swat, Pakistan
| | - Ahtisham Younas
- Swat College of Nursing, Swat, Pakistan
- Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Israr Ahmed
- Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Swat, Pakistan
| | - Anwar Ali
- Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Swat, Pakistan
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Seow H, Dutta P, Johnson MJ, McMillan K, Guthrie DM, Costa AP, Currow DC. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Breathlessness Across Canada: A National Retrospective Cohort Study in Home Care and Nursing Home Populations. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:346-354.e1. [PMID: 33276042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Breathlessness is a symptom associated with poor clinical outcomes and prognosis. Little is known about its long-term trends and associations with social factors including decline in social activities and caregiver distress. OBJECTIVES To describe factors associated with the prevalence of clinician-reported breathlessness across Canada among cohorts receiving home care or nursing home care. METHODS A retrospective observational cohort study of cross-sectional intake assessment data from Canadian interRAI Home Care and Nursing Home data sets. In each data set, we examined covariates associated with the presence of clinician-reported breathlessness using multivariate regression. RESULTS Between 2007 and 2018, we identified 1,317,117 and 469,709 individuals from the home care and nursing home data sets, respectively. Over two-thirds were aged >75 and over 60% were women. Breathlessness was present at intake in 26.0% of the home care and 8.2% of the nursing home cohorts. Between 2007 and 2018, prevalence of breathlessness increased by 10% for the home care cohort, while remaining relatively constant in nursing homes. Covariates associated with increased odds of having clinician-reported breathlessness at intake in both cohorts were moderate-severe impairment with activities of daily living, being male, older age, high pain scores, signs of depression, and decline in social activities. In the home care cohort, the presence of breathlessness was associated with a greater odds of caregiver distress (odds ratio = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.18-1.20). CONCLUSION The prevalence of clinician-reported breathlessness is higher in home care than in nursing home populations, the former having risen by 10% over the decade. Prevalence of breathlessness is associated with decline in social activities and caregiver distress. Enhanced supports may be required to meet increasing patient need in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien Seow
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrew P Costa
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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34
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Olsson M, Engström G, Currow DC, Johnson M, Sandberg J, Ekström MP. VAScular and Chronic Obstructive Lung disease (VASCOL): a longitudinal study on morbidity, symptoms and quality of life among older men in Blekinge county, Sweden. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046473. [PMID: 34312196 PMCID: PMC8314706 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite data showing breathlessness to be more prevalent in older adults, we have little detail about the severity or multidimensional characteristics of breathlessness and other self-reported measures (such as quality of life and other cardiorespiratory-related symptoms) in this group at the population level. We also know little about the relationship between multidimensional breathlessness, other symptoms, comorbidities and future clinical outcomes such as quality of life, hospitalisation and mortality. This paper reports the design and descriptive findings from the first two waves of a longitudinal prospective cohort study in older adults. PARTICIPANTS Between 2010 and 2011, 1900 men in a region in southern Sweden aged 65 years were invited to attend for VAScular and Chronic Obstructive Lung disease (VASCOL) baseline (Wave 1) assessments which included physiological measurements, blood sampling and a self-report survey of lifestyle and previous medical conditions. In 2019, follow-up postal survey data (Wave 2) were collected with additional self-report measures for breathlessness, other symptoms and quality of life. At each wave, data are cross-linked with nationwide Swedish registry data of diseases, treatment, hospitalisation and cause of death. FINDINGS TO DATE 1302/1900 (68%) of invited men participated in Wave 1, which include 56% of all 65-year-old men in the region. 5% reported asthma, 2% chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 56% hypertension, 10% diabetes and 19% had airflow limitation. The VASCOL cohort had comparable characteristics to those of similarly aged men in Sweden. By 2019, 109/1302 (8.4%) had died. 907/1193 (76%) of the remainder participated in Wave 2. Internal data completeness of 95% or more was achieved for most Wave 2 measures. FUTURE PLANS A third wave will be conducted within 4 years, and the cohort will be followed through repeated follow-ups planned every fourth year, as well as national registry data of diagnosis, treatments and cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Olsson
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Engström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - David C Currow
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, IMPACCT, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Jacob Sandberg
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Magnus Per Ekström
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Kim JW, Park EY. Self-management of oxygen and bronchodilators to relieve the dyspnoea of lung cancer with pneumoconiosis. Int J Palliat Nurs 2021; 26:167-174. [PMID: 32378485 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2020.26.4.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the level of dyspnoea and the self-management strategies used to alleviate dyspnoea in lung cancer patients with concurrent pneumoconiosis, particularly oxygen therapy and bronchodilator treatment. Furthermore, the authors aimed to determine the factors associated with such self-management and to provide a basis for developing an applicable and safe treatment plan for alleviating dyspnoea. METHOD This study involved a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires from 79 participants between January and July 2016, and self-management strategies were analysed using analysis of variance and multiple logistic regression analysis. RESULTS In terms of the self-management practices employed to relieve dyspnoea, 53.2% of the patients adjusted their oxygen intake and 70.9% used bronchodilators over the prescribed dosage. Adjusting the oxygen intake was not significantly associated with any of the patient characteristics. The factors related to increased bronchodilator use were the presence of comorbidities, cardiopulmonary function, subjective respiratory distress, activities of daily living, and the number of prescribed bronchodilators. CONCLUSION Dyspnoea is a severe critical condition, and urgent management of its clinical symptoms is required. Healthcare professionals who care for patients with lung cancer with pneumoconiosis should pay attention to the dyspnoea and manage it based on clinical evidence. Development of customised, integrated nursing treatment plans is needed to alleviate dyspnoea in patients with complications and chronic dyspnoea who have low daily activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Won Kim
- Assistant Manager, Infection Control Team, Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service, Ansan Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Eun Young Park
- College of Nursing, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
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Jelinčić V, Van Diest I, Torta DM, von Leupoldt A. The breathing brain: The potential of neural oscillations for the understanding of respiratory perception in health and disease. Psychophysiology 2021; 59:e13844. [PMID: 34009644 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dyspnea or breathlessness is a symptom occurring in multiple acute and chronic illnesses, however, the understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying its subjective experience is limited. In this topical review, we propose neural oscillatory dynamics and cross-frequency coupling as viable candidates for a neural mechanism underlying respiratory perception, and a technique warranting more attention in respiration research. With the evidence for the potential of neural oscillations in the study of normal and disordered breathing coming from disparate research fields with a limited history of interdisciplinary collaboration, the main objective of the review was to converge the existing research and suggest future directions. The existing findings show that distinct limbic and cortical activations, as measured by hemodynamic responses, underlie dyspnea, however, the time-scale of these activations is not well understood. The recent findings of oscillatory neural activity coupled with the respiratory rhythm could provide the solution to this problem, however, more research with a focus on dyspnea is needed. We also touch on the findings of distinct spectral patterns underlying the changes in breathing due to experimental manipulations, meditation and disease. Subsequently, we suggest general research directions and specific research designs to supplement the current knowledge using neural oscillation techniques. We argue for the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration and the converging of neuroimaging and behavioral methods to best explain the emergence of the subjective and aversive individual experience of dyspnea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Jelinčić
- Research Group Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Van Diest
- Research Group Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diana M Torta
- Research Group Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andreas von Leupoldt
- Research Group Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Luckett T, Roberts M, Swami V, Smith T, Cho JG, Klimkeit E, Wheatley JR. Maintenance of non-pharmacological strategies 6 months after patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) attend a breathlessness service: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050149. [PMID: 33986071 PMCID: PMC8126310 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the degree to which non-pharmacological strategies for chronic breathlessness are sustained 6 months after completing a breathlessness service in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and patient perceptions regarding the need for ongoing support. DESIGN A qualitative approach was taken using semistructured telephone interviews. Thematic analysis used an integrative approach. SETTING The Westmead Breathlessness Service (WBS) trains patients with COPD to self-manage chronic breathlessness over an 8-week programme with multidisciplinary input and home visits. PARTICIPANTS Patients with moderate to very severe COPD who had completed the WBS programme 6 months earlier. RESULTS Thirty-two participants were interviewed. One or more breathlessness self-management strategies were sustained by most participants, including breathing techniques (n=22; 69%), the hand-held fan (n=17; 53%), planning/pacing and exercise (n=14 for each; 44%) and strategic use of a four-wheeled walker (n=8; 25%). However, almost a third of participants appeared to be struggling psychologically, including some who had refused psychological intervention. A 'chaos narrative' appeared to be prevalent, and many participants had poor recall of the programme. CONCLUSIONS Self-management strategies taught by breathlessness services to patients with moderate to very severe COPD have potential to be sustained 6 months later. However, psychological coping may be more challenging to maintain. Research is needed on ways to improve resilience to set-backs and uptake of psychological interventions, as well as to understand and address the implications of poor recall for self-management. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12617000499381.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Luckett
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mary Roberts
- Ludwig Engel Centre for Respiratory Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Vinita Swami
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tracy Smith
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Jin-Gun Cho
- Ludwig Engel Centre for Respiratory Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Ester Klimkeit
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John R Wheatley
- Ludwig Engel Centre for Respiratory Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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O'Connell S, McCarthy VJC, Queally M, Savage E. The preferences of people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for self-management support: A qualitative descriptive study. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:2832-2841. [PMID: 33982317 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to explore and describe the self-management support (SMS) preferences of adults with asthma and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). BACKGROUND Self-management support interventions have had beneficial outcomes for people with asthma and people with COPD, though challenges remain in their implementation. Increased understanding of the support preferences of people with asthma/COPD can help inform the development of future interventions to address patients' preferences. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was used. METHODS Semi-structured focus group and individual interviews were conducted with 20 adult participants who had asthma and/or COPD in Ireland. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse interviews. The SRQR reporting guideline was used. RESULTS Three themes were identified. Support accessibility included having access to routine and unscheduled support from healthcare professionals with specialist knowledge. Consultation content described the need for comprehensive and person-centred support. The person-provider relationship described the value of healthcare professionals acknowledging patient concerns, noted as a challenge for people with asthma, and continuity in relationships over time. CONCLUSIONS Routine support for people with asthma/COPD needs to be comprehensive in addressing the individual patient's challenges. Access to timely advice during exacerbations was a priority for people with asthma/COPD, suggesting that flexible access to services as well as routine review may be optimal for supporting self-management of asthma/COPD. Feeling listened to regarding symptoms experienced may be of intrinsic value to people with asthma/COPD. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The study emphasises the importance of continued training in communications skills for healthcare professionals supporting people with asthma/COPD, particularly acknowledging the patient's concerns in the context of symptom changes/flare-up. A respiratory nurse specialist was valued as being a care coordinator who could support routine management as well as managing exacerbations, having specialist knowledge and knowing the patient over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena O'Connell
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Vera J C McCarthy
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michelle Queally
- Department of Enterprise and Technology, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eileen Savage
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Doe G, Chantrell S, Williams M, Steiner MC, Armstrong N, Hutchinson A, Evans RA. Breathless and awaiting diagnosis in UK lockdown for COVID-19…We're stuck. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2021; 31:21. [PMID: 33953200 PMCID: PMC8100135 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-021-00232-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 20 adults awaiting a diagnosis for their chronic breathlessness. Three key themes were identified using thematic analysis: (1) de-prioritisation of diagnosis, (2) following UK 'lockdown' guidance for the general population but patients fearful they were more at risk, and (3) the impact of lockdown on coping strategies for managing breathlessness. The existing unpredictable pathway to diagnosis for those with chronic breathlessness has been further interrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Doe
- Department of Respiratory Science, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Stacey Chantrell
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre-Respiratory theme, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Marie Williams
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Michael C Steiner
- Department of Respiratory Science, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre-Respiratory theme, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Natalie Armstrong
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Ann Hutchinson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull and York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Rachael A Evans
- Department of Respiratory Science, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre-Respiratory theme, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK.
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Hui D, Bohlke K, Bao T, Campbell TC, Coyne PJ, Currow DC, Gupta A, Leiser AL, Mori M, Nava S, Reinke LF, Roeland EJ, Seigel C, Walsh D, Campbell ML. Management of Dyspnea in Advanced Cancer: ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1389-1411. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.03465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide guidance on the clinical management of dyspnea in adult patients with advanced cancer. METHODS ASCO convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and formulate recommendations. An Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) systematic review provided the evidence base for nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions to alleviate dyspnea. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies with a concurrent comparison group published through early May 2020. The ASCO Expert Panel also wished to address dyspnea assessment, management of underlying conditions, and palliative care referrals, and for these questions, an additional systematic review identified RCTs, systematic reviews, and guidelines published through July 2020. RESULTS The AHRQ systematic review included 48 RCTs and two retrospective cohort studies. Lung cancer and mesothelioma were the most commonly addressed types of cancer. Nonpharmacologic interventions such as fans provided some relief from breathlessness. Support for pharmacologic interventions was limited. A meta-analysis of specialty breathlessness services reported improvements in distress because of dyspnea. RECOMMENDATIONS A hierarchical approach to dyspnea management is recommended, beginning with dyspnea assessment, ascertainment and management of potentially reversible causes, and referral to an interdisciplinary palliative care team. Nonpharmacologic interventions that may be offered to relieve dyspnea include airflow interventions (eg, a fan directed at the cheek), standard supplemental oxygen for patients with hypoxemia, and other psychoeducational, self-management, or complementary approaches. For patients who derive inadequate relief from nonpharmacologic interventions, systemic opioids should be offered. Other pharmacologic interventions, such as corticosteroids and benzodiazepines, are also discussed. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines .
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hui
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Kari Bohlke
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | - Ting Bao
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | | | | | - Arjun Gupta
- Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Aliza L. Leiser
- Rutgers RWJ Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Masanori Mori
- Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Stefano Nava
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University, Bologna, Italy
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Speakman L, Butcher D, Schutz S. Bearing witness to the challenges of breathlessness. Br J Community Nurs 2021; 26:162-166. [PMID: 33797966 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2021.26.4.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The community respiratory nurse specialist (CRNS) supports patients at different stages of lung disease, witnessing the challenge of living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive illness for which there is no cure. Breathlessness is the most prominent and debilitating symptom experienced; it is frightening, distressing and very difficult to manage. Little is known about the experience of CRNSs in witnessing the distress of patients, specifically those experiencing breathlessness. The nurse may have cared for such patients over many months or years. In witnessing this distress, CRNSs engage in emotional labour, which is associated with burnout and poor-quality care. This paper seeks to identify bearing witness to suffering and vulnerability as components of emotional labour in the context of the CRNS role. It highlights the need for research to explore the experience of CRNSs and insights into supporting people with long-term breathlessness. It is more likely that well-supported staff can provide sustained, supportive care to patients living with breathlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Speakman
- Community Respiratory and Home Oxygen Nurse Specialist, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust/Professional Doctorate Student, Oxford Brookes University
| | - Dan Butcher
- Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, Oxford Brookes University
| | - Sue Schutz
- Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, Oxford Brookes University
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Northgraves M, Cohen J, Allgar V, Currow D, Hart S, Hird K, Hodge A, Johnson M, Mason S, Swan F, Hutchinson A. A feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial of a paramedic-administered breathlessness management intervention for acute-on-chronic breathlessness (BREATHE). ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00955-2020. [PMID: 33816602 PMCID: PMC8005684 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00955-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic breathlessness, persistent and disabling despite optimal treatment of underlying causes, is a prevalent and frightening symptom and is associated with many emergency presentations and admission to hospital. Breathlessness management techniques used by paramedics may reduce the need for conveyance to hospital. The Breathlessness RElief AT HomE study (BREATHE) aims to explore the feasibility of conducting a definitive cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) for people with acute-on-chronic breathlessness who have called an ambulance, to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a paramedic-administered non-pharmacological breathlessness intervention. The trial is a mixed-methods feasibility cRCT. Eight paramedics will be randomised 1:1 to deliver either the BREATHE intervention in addition to usual care or usual care alone at call-outs for acute-on-chronic breathlessness. Sixty participants will be recruited to provide access to routine data relating to the index call-out with optional follow-up questionnaires at 14 days, 1 month and 6 months. An in-depth interview will be conducted with a subgroup. Feasibility outcomes relating to recruitment, data quality (especially candidate primary outcomes), and intervention acceptability and fidelity will be collected as well as providing data to estimate a sample size for a definitive trial. Yorkshire and The Humber–Sheffield Research Ethics Committee approved the trial protocol (19/YH/0314). The study results will inform progression to, or not, and design of a main trial according to predetermined stop-go criteria. Findings will be disseminated to relevant stakeholders and submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Acute-on-chronic breathlessness initiates many emergency presentations. The BREATHE protocol describes a feasibility, cluster randomised controlled trial of a paramedic breathlessness management intervention.https://bit.ly/2LZg72w
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Judith Cohen
- Hull Health Trials Unit, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Victoria Allgar
- Hull York Medical School / Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - David Currow
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Simon Hart
- Respiratory Research Group, Hull York Medical School, Cottingham, UK
| | - Kelly Hird
- Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Wakefield, UK
| | - Andrew Hodge
- Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Wakefield, UK
| | - Miriam Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Group, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK
| | - Suzanne Mason
- CURE group, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Flavia Swan
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Group, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK
| | - Ann Hutchinson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Group, Hull York Medical School, Hull, UK
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Wang L, Fang W, An Y, Chen C, Fan X. Identification of factors associated with social dysfunction in patients with heart failure. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2021; 20:475-484. [PMID: 33778889 DOI: 10.1093/eurjcn/zvaa027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Social dysfunction is adversely associated with individuals' physical and mental quality of life. However, little is known about the status of social dysfunction and its associated factors in patients with heart failure. Our study aimed to reveal the prevalence of social dysfunction, and the associations between fatigue, dyspnoea, anxiety, depression, social connectedness, and social dysfunction in patients with heart failure. METHODS AND RESULTS We assessed the social dysfunction, fatigue, dyspnoea, anxiety, depression, and social connectedness using self-report questionnaires among 291 patients (64.13 ± 11.84 years, 53.3% male) with heart failure. Two stepwise forward logistic regression models were employed to identify the factors associated with social dysfunction, and the area under receiver operating characteristic curve was used to calculate the variance of the associated factors accounting for social dysfunction. Of the 291 patients, 76.6% reported social dysfunction. The logistic regression model after adjusting co-variables showed that fatigue [odds ratio (OR) 4.233, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.778-10.081], dyspnoea (OR 0.866, 95% CI 0.756-0.991), depression (OR 1.173, 95% CI 1.037-1.328) were positively associated with social dysfunction, whereas social connectedness (OR 0.394, 95% CI 0.203-0.764) was negatively associated with social dysfunction. Four factors explained 84.5% of the variance of social dysfunction in patients with heart failure. CONCLUSIONS Social dysfunction is prevalent in patients with heart failure, and fatigue, dyspnoea, depression, and social connectedness are the associated factors. The findings indicate that the key to helping heart failure patients return to social life may be to attenuate fatigue, dyspnoea, and depression and to improve social connectedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyu Wang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Wenjie Fang
- Department of Gerontology, School of Humanities, Shandong Management University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Yan An
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Cancan Chen
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xiuzhen Fan
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
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von Leupoldt A, Ashoori M, Jelinčić V, Herzog M, Van Diest I. The impact of unpredictability of dyspnea offset on dyspnea perception, fear, and respiratory neural gating. Psychophysiology 2021; 58:e13807. [PMID: 33682134 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Dyspnea is a debilitating and threatening symptom in various diseases. Affected patients often report the unpredictability of dyspnea episodes being particularly anxiety-provoking and amplifying the perception of dyspnea. Experimental studies testing dyspnea unpredictability together with related neural processes, physiological fear responses, and dyspnea-related personality traits are sparse. Therefore, we investigated the impact of unpredictability of dyspnea offset on dyspnea perception and fear ratings, respiratory neural gating and physiological fear indices, as well as the influence of interindividual differences in fear of suffocation (FoS). Forty healthy participants underwent a task manipulating the offset predictability of resistive load-induced dyspnea including one unloaded safety condition. Respiratory variables, self-reports of dyspnea intensity, dyspnea unpleasantness, and fear were recorded. Moreover, respiratory neural gating was measured in a paired inspiratory occlusion paradigm using electroencephalography, while electrodermal activity, startle eyeblink, and startle probe N100 were assessed as physiological fear indices. Participants reported higher dyspnea unpleasantness and fear when dyspnea offset was unpredictable compared to being predictable. Individuals with high levels of FoS showed the greatest increase in fear and overall higher levels of fear and physiological arousal across all conditions. Respiratory neural gating, startle eyeblink, and startle probe N100 showed general reductions during dyspnea conditions but no difference between unpredictable and predictable dyspnea conditions. Together, the current results suggest that the unpredictable offset of dyspnea amplifies dyspnea perception and fear, especially in individuals with high levels of FoS. These effects were unrelated to respiratory neural gating or physiological fear responses, requiring future studies on underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Minoo Ashoori
- Research Group Health Psychology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Michaela Herzog
- Research Group Health Psychology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Van Diest
- Research Group Health Psychology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Louvaris Z, Langer D, Gosselink R. Detailing the mechanisms of chronic dyspnea in patients during cardiopulmonary exercise testing. J Bras Pneumol 2021; 47:e20210014. [PMID: 33656095 PMCID: PMC8332666 DOI: 10.36416/1806-3756/e20210014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zafeiris Louvaris
- . Faculty of Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Rehabilitation in Internal Disorders, KU Leuven, Belgium
- . Clinical Department of Respiratory Diseases, UZ Leuven, BREATHE department CHROMETA, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Daniel Langer
- . Faculty of Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Rehabilitation in Internal Disorders, KU Leuven, Belgium
- . Clinical Department of Respiratory Diseases, UZ Leuven, BREATHE department CHROMETA, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik Gosselink
- . Faculty of Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Rehabilitation in Internal Disorders, KU Leuven, Belgium
- . Clinical Department of Respiratory Diseases, UZ Leuven, BREATHE department CHROMETA, KU Leuven, Belgium
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Effects of Tiotropium/Olodaterol on Activity-Related Breathlessness, Exercise Endurance and Physical Activity in Patients with COPD: Narrative Review with Meta-/Pooled Analyses. Adv Ther 2021; 38:835-853. [PMID: 33306188 PMCID: PMC7889690 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01557-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Abstract One of the most debilitating symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is breathlessness, which leads to avoidance of physical activities in daily living and hastens clinical deterioration. Treatment of patients with COPD with inhaled long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)/long-acting β2-agonist (LABA) combination therapy improves airflow limitation, reduces breathlessness compared with LAMA or LABA monotherapies, and improves health status and quality of life. A large clinical trial programme focusing on the effects of tiotropium/olodaterol combination therapy demonstrated that this LAMA/LABA combination improves lung function and reduces hyperinflation (assessed by serial inspiratory capacity measurements) compared with either tiotropium alone or placebo in patients with COPD. Tiotropium/olodaterol also increases exercise endurance capacity and improves patient perception of the intensity of breathlessness compared with placebo. In this narrative review, we focus on the relationship between improving symptoms during activity, the ability to remain active in daily life and how this may impact quality of life. We consider the benefits of therapy optimisation by means of dual bronchodilation with tiotropium/olodaterol, and present new data from meta-analyses/pooled analyses showing that tiotropium/olodaterol improves inspiratory capacity compared with placebo and tiotropium and improves exercise endurance time compared with placebo after 6 weeks of treatment. We also discuss the importance of taking a holistic approach to improving physical activity, including pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise programmes in parallel with bronchodilator therapy and psychological programmes to support behaviour change. Graphic Abstract ![]()
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Gupta A, Sedhom R, Sharma R, Zhang A, Waldfogel JM, Feliciano JL, Day J, Gersten RA, Davidson PM, Bass EB, Dy SM. Nonpharmacological Interventions for Managing Breathlessness in Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Systematic Review. JAMA Oncol 2021; 7:290-298. [PMID: 33211072 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2020.5184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Importance Breathlessness is a frequent and debilitating symptom in patients with advanced cancer. Often, in the context of breathlessness, aggressive cancer treatment is not beneficial, feasible, or aligned with goals of care. Targeted symptom-focused interventions may be helpful in this scenario. Objective To evaluate the advantages and harms of nonpharmacological interventions for managing breathlessness in adults with advanced cancer. Evidence Review PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception through May 2020 for published randomized clinical trials (RCTs), nonrandomized controlled trials, and observational studies of the advantages and/or harms of nonpharmacological interventions on alleviating breathlessness in adults with advanced cancer. Only English-language studies were screened for eligibility, titles, abstracts, and full text. Risk of bias and strength of evidence (SOE) were independently assessed. The key outcomes reported in studies were breathlessness, anxiety, exercise capacity, health-related quality of life, and harms. Data were analyzed from October 1, 2019, to June 30, 2020. Findings A total of 29 RCTs (2423 participants) were included. These RCTs evaluated various types of interventions, such as respiratory (9 RCTs), activity and rehabilitation (7 RCTs), behavioral and psychoeducational (3 RCTs), integrative medicine (4 RCTs), and multicomponent (6 RCTs). Several nonpharmacological interventions were associated with improved breathlessness, including fan therapy (standardized mean difference [SMD], -2.09; 95% CI, -3.81 to -0.37; I2 = 94.3%; P for heterogeneity = .02; moderate SOE) and bilevel ventilation (estimated slope difference, -0.58; 95% CI, -0.92 to -0.23; low SOE), lasting for a few minutes to hours, in the inpatient setting. In the outpatient setting, nonpharmacological interventions associated with improved breathlessness were acupressure and reflexology (integrative medicine) (low SOE) and multicomponent interventions (combined activity and rehabilitation, behavioral and psychoeducational, and integrative medicine) (low SOE) lasting for a few weeks to months. Five of the 29 RCTs (17%) reported adverse events, although adverse events and study dropouts were uncommon. Conclusions and Relevance Findings of this review include the safety and association with improved breathlessness of several nonpharmacological interventions for adults with advanced cancer. Guidelines and clinical practice should evolve to incorporate nonpharmacological interventions as first-line treatment for adults with advanced cancer and breathlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Gupta
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ramy Sedhom
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ritu Sharma
- Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Center, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Allen Zhang
- Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Center, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Julie M Waldfogel
- Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Josephine L Feliciano
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jeff Day
- Department of Art as Applied to Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rebecca A Gersten
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Eric B Bass
- Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Center, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sydney M Dy
- Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Center, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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48
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Schunk M, Le L, Syunyaeva Z, Haberland B, Tänzler S, Mansmann U, Schwarzkopf L, Seidl H, Streitwieser S, Hofmann M, Müller T, Weiß T, Morawietz P, Rehfuess EA, Huber RM, Berger U, Bausewein C. Effectiveness of a specialised breathlessness service for patients with advanced disease in Germany: a pragmatic fast-track randomised controlled trial (BreathEase). Eur Respir J 2021; 58:13993003.02139-2020. [PMID: 33509957 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02139-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effectiveness of the Munich Breathlessness Service (MBS), integrating palliative care, respiratory medicine and physiotherapy, was tested in the BreathEase trial in patients with chronic breathlessness in advanced disease and their carers. METHODS BreathEase was a single-blinded randomised controlled fast-track trial. The MBS was attended for 5-6 weeks; the control group started the MBS after 8 weeks of standard care. Randomisation was stratified by cancer and the presence of a carer. Primary outcomes were patients' mastery of breathlessness (Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRQ) Mastery), quality of life (CRQ QoL), symptom burden (Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS)) and carer burden (Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI)). Intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses were conducted with hierarchical testing. Effectiveness was investigated by linear regression on change scores, adjusting for baseline scores and stratification variables. Missing values were handled with multiple imputation. RESULTS 92 patients were randomised to the intervention group and 91 patients were randomised to the control group. Before the follow-up assessment after 8 weeks (T1), 17 and five patients dropped out from the intervention and control groups, respectively. Significant improvements in CRQ Mastery of 0.367 (95% CI 0.065-0.669) and CRQ QoL of 0.226 (95% CI 0.012-0.440) score units at T1 in favour of the intervention group were seen in the ITT analyses (n=183), but not in IPOS. Exploratory testing showed nonsignificant improvements in ZBI. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate positive effects of the MBS in reducing burden caused by chronic breathlessness in advanced illness across a wide range of patients. Further evaluation in subgroups of patients and with a longitudinal perspective is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Schunk
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany .,Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Lien Le
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Zulfiya Syunyaeva
- Dept of Medicine V, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Birgit Haberland
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Tänzler
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Mansmann
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Larissa Schwarzkopf
- Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center Munich, Munich, Germany.,Health Economics and Health Care Management (IGM), Helmholtz Zentrum München (GmbH), German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany.,IFT (Institut für Therapieforschung), Munich, Germany
| | - Hildegard Seidl
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Health Economics and Health Care Management (IGM), Helmholtz Zentrum München (GmbH), German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany.,Quality Management and Gender Medicine, München Klinik gGmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Streitwieser
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miriam Hofmann
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Müller
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Weiß
- Atem-und Physiotherapie Solln, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Eva Annette Rehfuess
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Maria Huber
- Dept of Medicine V, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Comprehensive Pneumology Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ursula Berger
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Bausewein
- Dept of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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49
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Ladores S. Applying Petitmengin's Explicitation Interview Method to Elicit the Lived Experience of Breathing Upon Waking by an Individual With Cystic Fibrosis. J Patient Exp 2021; 7:856-868. [PMID: 33457512 PMCID: PMC7786704 DOI: 10.1177/2374373520956740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing is an act that most people do not consciously evoke unless there is a presence of illness that affects the respiratory system. Adults generally take in 12 to 15 breaths per minute without even a thought about the body’s mechanics that allow for proper oxygenation and ventilation. However, for those with pulmonary compromise, breathing becomes a very conscious, deliberate, and sometimes laborious act. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the use of the explicitation method by Petitmengin by interviewing a subject to elicit the lived experience of breathing by an individual with end-stage cystic fibrosis (CF). To apply the interview method, the following phenomenological question guided the interviewer’s approach: What is the lived experience of breathing upon waking for an individual with CF? This paper includes a transcription of the interview followed by a self-critique, textual analysis, and discussion of the implications to health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid Ladores
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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50
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Barnes-Harris MMM, Daniel S, Venkateswaran C, Hutchinson A, Johnson MJ. How Physicians in South India Recognize, Assess, and Manage People with Chronic Breathlessness Syndrome: A Thematic Analysis. Indian J Palliat Care 2021; 27:54-61. [PMID: 34035618 PMCID: PMC8121231 DOI: 10.4103/ijpc.ijpc_139_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic breathlessness syndrome has been defined to help clinicians actively seek, and patients legitimately present with, persistent breathlessness, and to drive services and research. However, views from low- to middle-income countries were not included. We aimed to explore the views of hospital physicians regarding chronic breathlessness syndrome, its recognition and management. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of qualitative data collected during a service development project. Three focus groups of physicians caring for patients with chronic breathlessness in a single tertiary hospital in South India were conducted in English, audio-recorded, transcribed, and subjected to thematic analysis. RESULTS Fifteen physicians from oncology, palliative care, cardiology, and respiratory specialties participated. Three major themes (impact, invisibility, and purpose) were generated. Findings mirrored those in high-income countries. Chronic breathlessness, as defined, was seen as prevalent, with a major impact on patients, families, and physicians. Nonpalliative care physicians described therapeutic helplessness with poor awareness and/or ability to manage breathlessness accompanied by active avoidance. This helplessness, a perceived lack of assessment tools and lack of access to palliative care contributed to the "invisibility" of chronic breathlessness. Most participants agreed with the name of chronic breathlessness syndrome. All agreed that systematic identification would foster education regarding assessment and management and support service development and research. CONCLUSIONS Chronic breathlessness syndrome is recognized in South India but, as in higher-income countries, risks being invisible due to the lack of awareness of therapeutic interventions. A named and defined syndrome was seen as a way to improve identification and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda MM Barnes-Harris
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Sunitha Daniel
- Department of Palliative Medicine, General Hospital Ernakulam, Kochi, India
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Chitra Venkateswaran
- Department of Psychiatry, Believers Church Medical College, Thiruvalla, Kerala, India
| | - Ann Hutchinson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Miriam J Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
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