[Therapeutic Aggressiveness and Liquid Oncology]
F J Barón Duarte1, M S Rodríguez Calvo2, J R Amor Pan3
1Servicio de Oncología Médica. Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago. Trv Choupana s/n. Santiago de Compostela A Coruña. Tfno. 676903416 correo: paco.baron@ telefonica.net.
Summary
Therapeutic aggressiveness in advanced cancer patients is more frequent than recommended, with about 25% meeting criteria. Improving end-of-life care requires focusing on patient dignity and communication.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Established criteria for therapeutic aggressiveness exist but are not widely used in Oncology Services evaluation.
- Aggressiveness in end-of-life cancer care remains a significant concern impacting patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence of therapeutic aggressiveness in advanced cancer patients using standard criteria.
- To evaluate end-of-life care practices in a cohort of deceased advanced cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1,001 advanced cancer patients who died between 2010 and 2013.
- Application of established scientific criteria to assess therapeutic aggressiveness.
Main Results:
- Approximately 25% of patients exhibited at least one criterion of therapeutic aggressiveness.
- End-of-life aggressiveness was observed more frequently than expert recommendations suggest.
Conclusions:
- Current oncology practices may overemphasize treatment over patient-centered care, potentially neglecting the patient as a moral subject.
- Implementing Advanced Care Planning, respecting patient values, and limiting therapeutic effort can reduce aggressiveness and enhance end-of-life care.
- A shift towards dignity, communication, and patient-centeredness is crucial for improving clinical practice in advanced cancer care.
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