The use of palliative care by people of Islamic faith and their preferences and decisions at the end of life: A scoping review.

Abstract

Objectives: The use of palliative care (PC) services from people of Islamic faith is seen limited. There are a fundamental lack of PC services appropriate to the target group and a lack of knowledge and acceptance. The transition from curative to PC is often perceived as problematic. Factors influencing PC use and end-of-life (EOL) decisions and preferences among people of Islamic faith are largely unclear.

Methods: A scoping review was carried out using the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Studies of any design, published in English, German, or Arabic, and published by the end of August 2022, were eligible for inclusion. The systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Study statements were analyzed with a clear distinction between PC as EOL care and other EOL decisions, such as euthanasia, withdrawal, or withholding of one or more life-sustaining treatments or medications.

Results: Sixty studies published between 1998 and 2022 were included. Only a few studies made statements about EOL care. The majority of studies focused on forms of euthanasia and indicated negative attitudes toward euthanasia, assisted suicide, and some other EOL decisions. Reasons for rejection include theological arguments, ethical and moral considerations, and others. Reasons for acceptance were principles of good death and dying, medical justifications, and others. The following barriers to the use of PC were identified laws and policies, lack of necessary resources, cultural norms and values, structure of the health-care system, communication and interaction between patients, relatives, and health-care staff, and others.

Significance of results: This review identifies the preferences for and difficulties in making EOL decisions and identifies barriers to specific PC for the Muslim population. Findings suggest how these barriers might be overcome.