[Death anxiety in palliative phase: a taboo to overcome]

Death anxiety is a frequent symptom in patients in the palliative phase of their disease, yet it is rarely explored. Several obstacles are responsible for this undervaluation including some on the medical side. For example: the fear of hurting the patient's feelings, one's own representations and projections onto patients. The lack of exploration and consequently the lack of support can have a dramatic impact on patients' quality of life. So, as to do the right thing, how should one act? This paper will, based on the literature and experience, explore some of the different avenues to help primary care physicians overcome this taboo.