Discovering needs for palliative care in children with cancer in Indonesia

Although most children with cancer die in low- and middle-income countries, palliative care receives limited attention in these settings. This study explores parents' perspectives on experiences and needs of children dying from cancer.

Home visits were conducted to interview parents of children, who were treated for cancer at an Indonesian academic hospital and died between 2019 and 2020, using semi-structured questionnaires.

Parents of 49 children (response rate 74%) were interviewed. While all children died in hospital, 37% of parents stated their child preferred to die at home. The most common symptoms during final illness were breathing difficulties (82%), pain (80%), and appetite loss (80%). Psychological symptoms received the least support from the medical team. No intervention was given to 46% of children with depression, 45% of children with anxiety, and 33% with sadness. Boys suffered more often from anxiety (68%) than girls (37%; p = .030). Parents (57%) were not always informed about their child's condition, and doctors gave confusing information (43%). The families' choice of treatment while dying was relieving pain or discomfort (39%) and extending life (33%), while for 29% it was unknown. However, many parents (51%) did not discuss these treatment wishes with doctors. Many children (45%) felt lonely wanting more interactions with school (71%), friends (63%), and family (57%).

Relieving suffering of children with cancer requires regular physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs assessment. Families should actively participate in deciding whether to extend life or relieve pain and discomfort. This can importantly improve the quality of life of children and families.