Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
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Support Care Cancer · Jan 2014
Bone health issues in breast cancer survivors: a Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) study.
Breast cancer treatments (chemotherapy and hormone therapy) can cause a rapid loss in bone mineral density, leading to osteoporosis and fractures later in life. Fortunately, preventative measures (vitamin D, exercise, etc.) can delay bone loss if employed early enough. This study compares the prevalence of osteoporosis and osteoporosis-related discussions with physicians among female breast cancer survivors and females with no cancer history to determine if breast cancer patients are being correctly advised on their high risk of bone loss. ⋯ A breast cancer diagnosis was associated with an increased prevalence of osteoporosis and falls. Nevertheless, breast cancer respondents were not more likely to discuss osteoporosis with their physician nor were they more likely to be considered high risk for osteoporosis. Increased dialogue between physician and breast cancer patient pertaining to bone loss is needed.
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Support Care Cancer · Jan 2014
Multicenter StudyDevelopment and validation of a prognostic scale for hospitalized patients with terminally ill cancer in China.
The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a scale prognostic of survival in hospitalized, terminally ill cancer patients in China. ⋯ We identified eight indicators predictive of poor survival in Chinese patients hospitalized with terminal cancer. A prognostic scale that includes these indicators may help in making decisions about end-of-life care.
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Support Care Cancer · Jan 2014
Randomized Controlled TrialMultimodal exercise training during myeloablative chemotherapy: a prospective randomized pilot trial.
Cancer and its treatment-related side effects induce loss of physical performance. This study evaluated the effects of multimodal aerobic and strength exercises on physical performance in hospitalized cancer patients while receiving myeloablative chemotherapy. ⋯ Multimodal exercise has beneficial effects on physical performance, physical functioning, and treatment-related symptoms even during myeloablative chemotherapy. We suggest an enhanced physical activity intervention program during hospitalization of cancer patients.
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Support Care Cancer · Jan 2014
Rest/activity rhythm is related to the coexistence of pain and sleep disturbance among advanced cancer patients with pain.
This study aimed to explore the relationships among pain, sleep disturbance, and circadian rhythms in advanced cancer patients. ⋯ The rest/activity rhythm influences the coexisting pain and sleep disturbances. Pain functions as a complete mediator in their relationship. Interventions that improve rest/activity rhythms may improve the management of pain and sleep disturbances in cancer patients.
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Support Care Cancer · Jan 2014
Health care providers' use and knowledge of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS): is there a need to improve information and training?
The ESAS is a clinical symptom assessment tool developed for patients receiving palliative care for pain and symptom control. Recent studies have indicated that patients have difficulty understanding terminology and correct use of the ESAS, and that they appreciate the presence of a health care provider (HCP) to assist with ESAS completion. As appropriate assessment translates into effective treatment, it is important that HCPs have a good understanding of the tool. The purpose of this study was to assess HCPs' use, knowledge, and training needs of the ESAS. ⋯ Suggestions for improving ESAS administration and training were to include term definitions and examples of how to ask about terms that might be challenging for patients. Furthermore, initial and ongoing training sessions might help to clarify issues with the tool.