ABSTRACT
Cancer pain is one of the most common, feared, debilitating, and often undertreated symptoms among cancer patients. It needs attention since it has a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of the patients. Also, since cancer has emerged as a major health problem in developing countries, there is a need to strengthen preventive strategies for effective cancer pain management and provide comfort to cancer patients. Nonetheless, various barriers limit developing countries toward optimal cancer pain management. To bridge the gap between adequate pain management and burden of cancer pain in developing countries, a comprehensive understanding of the limitations faced and the prevalence of cancer pain should be addressed. The aim of this literature review is to provide a deeper understanding on the factors associated with cancer pain as well as barriers toward optimal cancer pain management in developing countries. Some of the barriers addressed were administrative, judicial, economic, and professional barriers. Also, estimates on the prevalence of cancer pain and detrimental effects of pain on the QoL of cancer patients have been addressed. In summary, pain, which is one of the most debilitating symptoms of cancer, remains uncontrolled and undertreated in developing countries. It has a profound impact on the patient's QoL and can have physical, psychological, and social consequences; therefore, it needs to be managed urgently and appropriately. Most importantly, optimal treatment of cancer pain should be highlighted as a priority in developing countries and concerted efforts should be made to eliminate different barriers discussed in this review for effective and humane care.
ABSTRACT
Background: There are currently no data on the prevalence and incidence of chronic pain in the Philippines. Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the incidence and prevalence of chronic pain in the general adult population of the Philippines. It also aimed to establish the demographic profile of chronic pain sufferers, identify the causes and intensity of chronic pain, and understand the impact of chronic pain on daily living and quality of life. This study also explored current treatment practices for patients with chronic pain, their levels of satisfaction with treatment, and barriers to obtaining appropriate treatment. Methodology: The study was conducted in the Philippines via a quantitative sample survey that involved face-to-face interviews using a two-phase structured questionnaire. Results: The survey showed an overall prevalence of moderate-to-severe chronic pain (chronic pain M+S) of 10.4% of the general adult population, with an annual incidence rate of 3.4%. Chronic pain M+S was more commonly reported by women and the elderly. The most common locations of pain were the knees, back and lower back. Daily routine was affected in about half of the sufferers, but they had rational attitudes to pain and positive views of medical treatment. High consultation fees discouraged nearly two-thirds of sufferers from seeking medical advice for their pain. Despite the availability of effective pain treatments, a large proportion of patients taking prescription painkillers reported that the medication was less than effective, indicating a large gap between achievable pain relief targets and patients’ expectations of pain medications. Conclusion: The Philippines has a relatively high prevalence of chronic pain M+S. There is a need for improved pain management to ensure that patients with chronic pain receive appropriate and effective treatment.
