Abstract 3954
Background
Patients with advanced cancer experience symptoms that include pain, fatigue, and depression. We sought to describe prevalence and identify factors associated with biopsychosocial distress in older patients (65+) diagnosed with cancer stage IV.
Methods
Participants were recruited from two different types of health care facilities, public [PUB] and private [PRI] institutions, in Brazil. A cross-sectional analysis of common biopsychosocial symptoms (anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue), and quality of life reported by older patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment was performed.
Results
Older patients (n = 167) were enrolled (Mean age=73; SD = 5.6); 59.3% from PUB. Majority were female (56.3%; 38.9% PUB), white (68.9%; 35.7% PRI, p
Conclusions
Older patients with late-stage cancer in Brazil suffer substantial unrecognized morbidity which impacts their distress and QOL. Biopsychosocial screening for older patients should be included in quality cancer care. Moreover, patients treated within PUB show worse outcomes than PRI counterparts, and they are at higher risk for multiple physical, psychological, and financial morbidity. Earlier initiation of biopsychosocial screening with appropriate supportive care may improve their QOL.
Clinical trial identification
Legal entity responsible for the study
Cristiane Decat Bergerot
Funding
None
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.