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[Cultural concepts and the pain experience]
1Departamento de Enfermagem Médico-Cirúrgica da Escola de Enfermagem da USP.
Revista Da Escola De Enfermagem Da U S P
|November 21, 1998
Summary
Cultural beliefs significantly impact cancer pain intensity. Misconceptions about pain control and analgesic use correlate with higher pain levels in advanced cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pain Management
- Medical Sociology
Context:
- Patients with advanced cancer and pain receiving outpatient oncologic treatment were assessed.
- Pain and cultural factors were evaluated using adapted Portuguese instruments, including the Patient Pain Questionnaire.
- Average pain duration was 10 months, with moderate pain in most patients and severe pain in 20%.
Purpose:
- To investigate the influence of cultural factors on cancer pain intensity.
- To identify specific cultural misconceptions associated with higher pain levels.
Summary:
- Cultural misconceptions, such as the belief in the impossibility of cancer pain control and the perception of excessive analgesic prescription, were found to be correlated with increased pain intensity (p < 0.05).
Impact:
- Findings highlight the importance of addressing cultural beliefs in managing cancer pain.
- Suggests that culturally sensitive interventions may improve pain outcomes in oncology patients.