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Interference with daily functioning by breakthrough pain in patients with cancer
Jung Hun Kang1, Su-Jin Koh2, So Yeon Oh3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.
Summary
Higher breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) intensity significantly impacts daily functioning. This study shows that increased BTCP intensity, duration, and frequency worsen interference with daily life for cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pain Management
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) is a significant concern for cancer patients.
- Understanding the impact of BTCP intensity on quality of life is crucial for effective pain management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the intensity of breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) and its impact on patients' quality of life (QOL).
- To determine how different levels of BTCP intensity affect daily functioning in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, nationwide survey in South Korea involving 438 cancer patients with breakthrough cancer pain.
- Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and interference with daily functioning (IDF) was assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI).
- Patients were classified into mild, moderate, and severe BTCP groups based on NRS scores.
Main Results:
- Patients with moderate-severe BTCP reported significantly higher interference with daily functioning (IDF) compared to those with mild BTCP.
- Increased BTCP intensity, duration, and frequency were significantly associated with greater IDF.
- Both affective and physical domains of daily functioning were proportionally hampered by rising BTCP intensity.
Conclusions:
- Breakthrough cancer pain intensity is a key determinant of interference with daily functioning in cancer patients.
- The cause or type of BTCP does not appear to influence the degree of daily functioning interference.
- Managing BTCP intensity is essential for improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
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