Cancer control : journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center
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Prognosis is a key driver of clinical decision-making. However, available prognostication tools have limited accuracy and variable levels of validation. ⋯ Despite the uncertainty in survival prediction, existing prognostic tools can facilitate clinical decision-making by providing approximated time frames (months, weeks, or days). Future research should focus on clarifying and comparing the rates of accuracy for existing prognostic tools, identifying and validating novel prognostic factors, and linking prognostication to decision-making.
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Although much evidence has accumulated demonstrating its benefit, relatively little is known about outpatient palliative care in patients with cancer. ⋯ Evidence of clinical and health care system benefits supports the recommendations of professional organizations to integrate palliative care into the routine treatment of patients with advanced cancer.