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Early Palliative Care in Advanced or Metastatic Bladder Cancer: A Retrospective Study

  • 0Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Jingzhou (First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University), 434000 Jingzhou, Hubei, China.
Archivos Españoles De Urología +

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May 9, 2025

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May 9, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Early palliative care significantly improves quality of life, reduces fatigue, and alleviates psychological distress in advanced bladder cancer patients within six months. This approach enhances patient well-being and satisfaction.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Palliative Care
  • Quality of Life Research

Background

  • Advanced cancer, particularly metastatic bladder cancer, leads to a decline in patient quality of life.
  • Integrating palliative care early is crucial for managing end-of-life symptoms and improving patient experience.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the benefits of early palliative care integration in routine treatment for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer.
  • To assess the impact on quality of life, pain, fatigue, psychological distress, and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods

  • Retrospective study of 97 patients with advanced/metastatic bladder cancer.
  • Comparison between an observation group (routine care + early palliative care) and a control group (routine care only).
  • Utilized validated questionnaires (FACT-G, BPI, CFS, HADS, FAMCARE-2) assessed at baseline and 3, 6 months post-intervention; analyzed using generalized estimating equation.

Main Results

  • The observation group showed significant improvements in quality of life (p=0.013) and reduced fatigue (p=0.001) and psychological distress (p<0.001) within 6 months.
  • No statistically significant changes in pain scores were observed in either group (p>0.05).
  • Nursing satisfaction significantly increased in the observation group (p=0.006), with notable time-group interactions in fatigue and distress.

Conclusions

  • Early palliative care effectively enhances quality of life and reduces fatigue and psychological distress in advanced bladder cancer patients.
  • Palliative care integration does not significantly alter pain scores but improves overall patient well-being and satisfaction.
  • Routine integration of early palliative care is recommended for improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

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