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Symptom control in advanced cancer: twenty principles
Adriana Alvarez1, Declan Walsh
1The Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.
The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care
|March 15, 2011
Summary
Effective symptom management is crucial in palliative care. Applying 20 identified principles to advanced cancer symptoms can improve patient quality of life (QOL).
Area of Science:
- Palliative Medicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Symptom management is a core clinical priority in Palliative Medicine.
- Effective symptom control is essential for improving the quality of life (QOL) of patients with advanced cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key principles for effective symptom control in advanced cancer care.
- To provide a systematic framework for palliative specialists managing complex symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Derivation of principles from established cancer pain management practices.
- Identification and synthesis of 20 guiding principles for symptom control.
Main Results:
- Symptom control requires accurate diagnosis, individualized therapy, and a systematic approach.
- Twenty principles identified to guide clinical practice in advanced cancer symptom management.
Conclusions:
- Systematic application of these principles enhances QOL in advanced cancer.
- The identified principles offer a clear and simple guide for palliative care specialists.
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