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[Requests for active euthanasia: which reality in an oncology center.].
G Chvetzoff1, M Perret, G Thevenet
1Equipe mobile de soins palliatifs, département de soins de support, centre Léon-Bérard, 28, rue Laennec, 69373, Lyon cedex 08, France, Unité de psycho-oncologie, département de soins de support, centre Léon-Bérard, 28, rue Laennec, 69373, Lyon cedex 08, France.
Bulletin Du Cancer
|November 12, 2009
Summary
Requests for euthanasia among cancer patients are infrequent but significant. Motives include psychological distress, autonomy, and pain, with some requests persisting despite palliative care interventions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care
- Bioethics
Background:
- Euthanasia is a contentious societal issue, often linked to cancer patients in legal jurisdictions.
- Understanding patient motivations for euthanasia requests is crucial for care provision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency and underlying reasons for active euthanasia requests in an oncology setting.
- To analyze the persistence of these requests and caregiver responses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of euthanasia requests at a French cancer center (2001-2003).
- Data collected via physician/nurse interviews and palliative care meeting minutes.
- Information gathered on patient status, motives, request evolution, and caregiver reactions.
Main Results:
- 16 euthanasia requests identified (1% of total deaths), with varied demographics.
- Primary motives: psychological distress (38%), desire for autonomy (31%), and pain (31%).
- Requests for autonomy persisted; distress-related requests often ceased. Sedation provided to 3 patients.
Conclusions:
- Active euthanasia requests in cancer patients are rare but occur, sometimes when palliative care is insufficient.
- Patient suffering and the desire for autonomy can drive persistent requests.
- Managing these requests presents ethical and practical challenges for healthcare providers.
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