2087P - Impact of cancer pain on quality of life and financial well-being: A cross-sectional study on symptom management

Background

Cancer symptoms (CS) impose a significant burden on patients, affecting their quality of life and financial stability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of common CS on the physical and financial well-being of patients who frequently rely on medications to manage their cancer-related symptoms.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted between January and October 2022. The study aimed to identify patient-administered drugs for managing cancer treatment toxicities and associated symptoms. It assessed six common symptoms: anorexia/cachexia, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Demographic data were collected, along with cancer type and active treatment status. Symptom assessment used PERSONS questionnaire, while financial distress (FD) was analyzed with the COST questionnaire.

Results

A total of 211 patients completed the questionnaires, providing valuable insights into their symptom management. However, 183 patients, relied on prescription drugs to alleviate their symptoms. Cancer pain (CP) management was the primary concern for 45% of the patients, followed by constipation, which affected 28% of them. Significantly, the analysis revealed a strong association between CP and lower PERSONS scores, suggesting a negative impact on overall well-being. CP was also correlated with FD, unlike other symptom categories, which did not show statistically significant correlations. Healthcare costs were primarily attributed to pain management, including visits to healthcare professionals and prescription medications. Pain-related expenses contributed to financial strain, resulting in increased out-of-pocket costs and potential income loss due to reduced work productivity or inability to work.

Conclusions

This survey highlights the profound impact of CP on the quality of life and financial well-being of cancer patients. Collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals and policymakers are crucial in developing integrated approaches that ensure accessible and affordable pain management for cancer patients, thus alleviating their suffering and reducing the financial burden associated with pain.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

R. Giusti.

Funding

Has not received any funding.

Disclosure

R. Giusti: Financial Interests, Personal, Expert Testimony, Advisory Board for Clinician's expertise on Drug Management: Roche; Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Publication fee for open access manuscript: Molteni; Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Advisory Board: Novartis, Pfizer; Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker to national and international congress: Angelini Pharma; Financial Interests, Personal, Expert Testimony, Expert testimony on Drug Management: Takeda. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.