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Quality of life and needs of the Indian advanced cancer patients receiving palliative careAssessment of the quality of life, problems, and needs of the advanced cancer patient receiving palliative care

Context: Studies related to need, problems, and quality of life in advanced cancer patients receiving palliative care are scarce in India. Aim: The aim of the study 'was to assess the quality of life, problems, and needs in advanced cancer patients receiving palliative care. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional survey in the palliative care outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: Survey was conducted using structured questionnaires with tools of problems and need in palliative care and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C15-PAL. Statistical Analysis Used: Survey results were presented for various palliative care needs and domains as per magnitude of palliative care received. Comparison of the scores for males and females was done using Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: More than 50% patients had difficulty in daily living and majority of patients (77%) had difficulty in doing heavy work. 82% patients presented with fatigue, 47% patients had issues regarding others being overconcerned, 71% were afraid of physical suffering, 77% faced difficulties in usual activities, and 80% felt the need for being informed about the possibility of treatment and side effects. Needs were more in female patients including a statistically significant difference in sleep quality (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Palliative care needs and quality of life in Indian patients with advanced cancer are of concern and need further attention for optimal care. Quality of life, problems, and needs in such patients need to be assessed, and provisions should be made for delivery of adequate services.