Chloé Calvez, Francesca Mininel, Sandrine de Montgolfier, Anthony Gonçalves, Ulrick Leleu, Philippe Rochigneux, Aurélien Proux, Léa Restivo
{"title":"Oncologist’s Representations of Anticancer Treatments for Patients With Advanced-Stage Cancer: New Perspectives From the COVID-19 Crisis","authors":"Chloé Calvez, Francesca Mininel, Sandrine de Montgolfier, Anthony Gonçalves, Ulrick Leleu, Philippe Rochigneux, Aurélien Proux, Léa Restivo","doi":"10.1155/ecc/7478375","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/7478375","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific societies of oncology issued guidelines to limit the spread of the virus, in particular by limiting the prescription of cancer treatments with palliative intent. This qualitative study adopts a psychosocial perspective to explore how oncologists experienced these guidelines, and what this reveals about their representations and practices concerning end-of-life treatments.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Conducted in a comprehensive cancer center, the study is based on a mixed-method strategy involving 10 semistructured interviews with oncologists and observation of 13 consultations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The oncologists stated that they were complying with the guidelines, which was perceived as an external argument of authority that made it easier to announce the cessation of treatment. The analysis highlights the sacralization of chemotherapy, a shared feeling of guilt at the idea of stopping cancer treatments, and a representation of palliative care as the moment when there is “nothing more to be done.”</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Discussion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The fact that the oncologists reported that previous practices had been reinstated once the health crisis had passed reveals the psychosocial logics at work in their decision-making and communication practices. This study recommends the creation of workshops to raise awareness of the psychosocial factors that influence chemotherapy prescriptions in the advanced stages of the disease.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-04-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/7478375","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147683305","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Almudena Martínez-Sánchez, Narcis Gusi, Francisco Javier Dominguez-Muñoz, Juan Luis Leon-Llamas, Santos Villafaina
{"title":"Exercise-Based Interventions for Metabolic and Immune Modulation in Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of RCTs","authors":"Almudena Martínez-Sánchez, Narcis Gusi, Francisco Javier Dominguez-Muñoz, Juan Luis Leon-Llamas, Santos Villafaina","doi":"10.1155/ecc/6684341","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/6684341","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Purpose</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and often leads to treatment-related morbidity, including metabolic alterations and chronic low-grade inflammation. Exercise has been proposed as a supportive strategy to mitigate treatment-related adverse effects. This study systematically reviews the impact of exercise on metabolic-, inflammatory-, hormonal- and tumour-related biomarkers in men with prostate cancer. A meta-analysis explored potential effects according to exercise type.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and included studies from PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Eligible studies involved prostate cancer patients, an exercise intervention and reported outcomes on metabolic, immune or tumour markers. Only randomised controlled trials with a control group were included. Twenty-five articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A total of 1,093 male participants were included across trials involving resistance, aerobic, combined exercise or yoga interventions. The meta-analysis showed a significant reduction in insulin levels within the combined exercise subgroup (<i>p</i> = 0.03). C-reactive protein was also significantly reduced in pooled analyses (<i>p</i> = 0.001). No consistent significant effects were observed for testosterone, glucose, IL-6 or prostate-specific antigen.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Exercise may induce modest changes in selected systemic biomarkers, particularly CRP, in men with prostate cancer undergoing treatment. However, effects were heterogeneous and generally small, and current evidence does not demonstrate consistent tumour-related modification. Exercise remains an important supportive strategy to enhance physiological resilience, but larger, high-quality trials are required to clarify clinical relevance.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/6684341","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147684155","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Paolo Bossi, Akin Atmaca, Thomas Bachelot, Rupert Bartsch, Giampaolo Bianchini, Quincy Chu, Robin Cornelissen, Enriqueta Felip, Nicolas Girard, Francesco Passiglia, Sonia Pernas, Melissa Phillips, David Planchard, Claudio Zamagni, Jo Clark, Cecile Matthews, Lutz Goerke, Barbara Pistilli
{"title":"Modified Delphi Study on Oral Mucositis/Stomatitis Prevention and Management in Patients Receiving Datopotamab Deruxtecan","authors":"Paolo Bossi, Akin Atmaca, Thomas Bachelot, Rupert Bartsch, Giampaolo Bianchini, Quincy Chu, Robin Cornelissen, Enriqueta Felip, Nicolas Girard, Francesco Passiglia, Sonia Pernas, Melissa Phillips, David Planchard, Claudio Zamagni, Jo Clark, Cecile Matthews, Lutz Goerke, Barbara Pistilli","doi":"10.1155/ecc/6518713","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/6518713","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Oral mucositis/stomatitis is a common adverse event during cancer treatment that can disrupt oral functioning and adherence to treatment. Datopotamab deruxtecan (Dato-DXd), a TROP2-directed antibody-drug conjugate, has shown promise in treating solid tumors. It has been associated with oral mucositis/stomatitis in clinical trials for breast and lung cancer (TROPION program). Currently, there is a lack of formalized guidelines for managing Dato-DXd-associated oral mucositis/stomatitis. The present study employed a modified Delphi approach to establish expert consensus on preventing, diagnosing, monitoring, and treating oral mucositis/stomatitis secondary to Dato-DXd and to improve patient care and clinical outcomes.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A four-stage modified Delphi study engaging 15 oncology experts from Europe and Canada was used to establish consensus on managing Dato-DXd-induced oral mucositis/stomatitis in lung and breast cancer patients. Experts were selected based on their roles as investigators in Dato-DXd clinical trials, including but not limited to TROPION-PanTumor01, TROPION-Lung01, TROPION-Lung05, and TROPION-Breast01, and their experience managing cancer treatment–associated oral mucositis/stomatitis. The Delphi process included an initial meeting, two anonymized surveys, an in-person consensus meeting, and virtual one-to-one sessions for absentees.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Expert consensus was reached on recommendations for managing Dato-DXd-associated oral mucositis/stomatitis, and experts highlighted the importance of establishing guidance to improve patient quality of life and clinical outcomes. Key recommendations included prophylactic dexamethasone mouthwash, patient education, and behavioral changes. Early detection through self-checks and monitoring was emphasized, and recommended treatment strategies were tailored to oral mucositis/stomatitis severity. Treatment recommendations included dose modifications and discontinuation for severe cases.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study offers expert guidance on managing Dato-DXd-associated oral mucositis/stomatitis, filling a crucial gap in patient care. Ongoing efforts to generate Dato-DXd-specific data will facilitate the creation of standardized, evidence-based protocols to improve patient safety and treatment outcomes.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/6518713","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147585151","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ben Hung, Tenaw Tiruye, Stamati Morias, Kerri Beckmann
{"title":"Non-Medical Interventions to Improve Functional Outcomes for Men Undergoing Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review","authors":"Ben Hung, Tenaw Tiruye, Stamati Morias, Kerri Beckmann","doi":"10.1155/ecc/1941313","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/1941313","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Purpose</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to identify and evaluate non-medical interventions (exercise, psychosocial, diet and nutrition, or a combination thereof) to improve functional outcomes (fatigue, mental wellbeing, sexual function, bowel function and urinary function) in men undergoing prostate cancer radiotherapy.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An electronic search of six databases (CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, Medline via Ovid, Scopus and The Cochrane Library) was conducted for studies published in English from 1990 onwards. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasiexperimental studies regarding non-medical interventions delivered before, during or after radiotherapy for prostate cancer to improve functional outcomes were included in this review. Two-stage screening (title/abstract and full text) was conducted against predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardised form, and risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Twenty-five RCTs and seven quasiexperimental studies met the eligibility criteria. Aerobic and resistance exercises showed promising results in improving fatigue, while multidisciplinary rehabilitation showed promise in improving urinary function. However, inconsistent findings prevented definitive conclusions about the effect of exercise on other functional outcomes. Additionally, the impact of psychosocial and dietary interventions on functional outcomes remains inconclusive due to the limited number of studies, small sample sizes, non-randomised study design and study quality.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>There is a lack of strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of non-medical interventions in improving functional outcomes after prostate cancer radiotherapy, except for aerobic and resistance exercises for fatigue and multidisciplinary rehabilitation for urinary function. More rigorous RCTs are needed to address this evidence gap.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Implications for Cancer Survivors</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Engaging in aerobic and/or resistance exercise can likely reduce fatigue, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation may improve urinary function in prostate cancer patients who receive radiotherapy.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/1941313","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147584998","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions of the Implementation of Psychosocial eHealth Tools in Oncology: A Qualitative Study","authors":"Ambre Naeyaert, Valentyn Fournier, Lisa Laroussi-Libeault, Julie Haerinck, Pauline Justin, Christelle Duprez, Pascal Antoine, Delphine Grynberg, Kristopher Lamore","doi":"10.1155/ecc/8841407","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/8841407","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Purpose</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>As medical demography evolves, with patients living longer, cancer mortality declining, and quality of life gaining importance over survival, eHealth tools such as mobile apps and websites have emerged to support psychosocial care in addition to addressing medical needs. Yet, implementing these tools in cancer care remains complex, affected by multilevel factors ranging from intrinsic motivation and digital literacy (micro) to institutional culture, funding, and health policy (macro). A key limitation may be that many digital tools are not codeveloped between researchers and clinicians, leading to poor transferability. This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the implementation of digital supportive care tools for patients with cancer and their relatives.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Method</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A qualitative study was conducted using semistructured interviews held via videoconferencing with healthcare professionals practicing in oncology. Data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Forty-three healthcare professionals participated. Four main themes emerged: (1) the oncology care context (e.g., workforce shortages, digital healthcare evolution, and geographic disparities); (2) perceived benefits of eHealth tools for patients, caregivers, and providers; (3) desired features and content of such tools (e.g., reliable information, interactive exercises, and symptom tracking); and (4) barriers and facilitators to implementation, including intrinsic motivation, digital access, and institutional support.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Healthcare professionals recognize the potential of eHealth tools to support patients with cancer and their relatives. However, effective implementation requires early involvement of end users and context-specific strategies to ensure these tools are truly integrated into cancer care pathways.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/8841407","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147585168","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Immunotherapy in Lung Cancer: A Qualitative Metasynthesis From Patient and Family Perspectives","authors":"Ruoshi Gu, Chunhua Chen, Jinyao Ying, Yewen Hu, Shenqing Zhang, Dan Yin","doi":"10.1155/ecc/4872543","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/4872543","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with high incidence and low survival rate. Over the past decades, innovative treatment modalities like targeted drug therapy and immunotherapy have emerged, offering potential improvements in safety and effectiveness. Immunotherapy allows for a sustained therapeutic response by enhancing the immune response of the body to cancer cells, providing long-term survival benefits with a manageable safety profile. However, the experiences of patients receiving immunotherapy and their family caregivers remain insufficiently explored.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to explore the requirements of healthcare professionals in immunotherapy of lung cancer patients by examining and synthesizing qualitative data about the experiences of lung cancer patients receiving immunotherapy and their family caregivers, focusing on the psychological, information, and support needs to improve the quality of life of patients.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Systematic review and qualitative metasynthesis were conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Inclusion criteria were qualitative studies featuring quotes from adult patients or family members about their experiences with immunotherapy for lung cancer. Data extraction and synthesis were conducted using meta-aggregation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Seven articles reporting on five studies were included, comprising 216 participants (96 patients, 70 healthcare professionals, and 50 family members). Four major themes emerged: (1) The quality of life of patients could be significantly influenced by their psychological state. (2) Anxiety and stress are common in patients and consequently cause their uncertainty about the treatment. (3) Although physical side effects may occur, they are generally less severe and have less impact on overall health and daily functioning compared with those associated with chemotherapy. (4) Family caregivers faced substantial stress due to financial burdens and the impact on family relations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Patients with lung cancer receiving immunotherapy, along with their families, encounter a variety of challenges, including the management of side effects, psychological and financial stress, and unce","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/4872543","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147568140","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Beyond the Clinic: A Netnographic Analysis of Head and Neck Cancer Survivors on Instagram","authors":"Wilfredo Alejandro González-Arriagada, Monserrat Soto, Cynthia Cantarutti, Felipe Rodríguez-Oria, Carolina Masson, Catalina Troncoso","doi":"10.1155/ecc/1167659","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/1167659","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Head and neck cancer (HNC) represents a global health issue with significant physical, psychological, and social implications for patients. Netnography, an online research method, offers a unique opportunity to explore the experiences of HNC survivors in the digital age. This study analyzes the Instagram posts of HNC survivors to understand their lived experiences, coping mechanisms, and support networks.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A netnographic content analysis was conducted on Instagram posts from 29 HNC survivor users. A mixed qualitative and quantitative approach was used to identify and interpret patterns and meanings within the textual data.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The analysis revealed 11 key themes. These individuals used their platforms to educate about HNC, sharing personal experiences to raise awareness of early detection and support newly diagnosed patients. They documented the multifaceted impact of treatment, including physical and emotional challenges such as pain, disfigurement, and loss of voice. Despite these difficulties, they emphasized the importance of social support networks, including family, friends, and healthcare providers, in their recovery process. Their posts expressed a range of emotions, from fear and anxiety to resilience and hope, reflecting the emotional struggle inherent in survivorship. They also shared experiences adapting to post-treatment life, including the use of medical devices, managing physical limitations, and economic difficulties. They celebrated small victories and offered practical advice and emotional support to others.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>HNC survivors use social media to share their experiences, provide support, and advocate for themselves and others. Their stories highlight the multifaceted challenges of cancer and the importance of resilience, social support, and adaptation in the recovery process. These findings underscore the potential of netnography to provide valuable insights into the lived experiences of HNC survivors, which can inform healthcare practices and support programs.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/1167659","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147568139","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Do-Not-Resuscitate Order for Children With Terminal Cancer Admitted to a Palliative Care Unit","authors":"Na Li, Duan Guo, Jianjun Jiang, Qian Deng","doi":"10.1155/ecc/1087034","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/1087034","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Research on do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders mainly focuses on adult patients, with only a few studies investigating children. We aimed to investigate the use of DNR orders and factors associated with the signing of a DNR order among children with terminal cancer in mainland China.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study was a retrospective analysis involving children with terminal cancer who died in the palliative care unit of a large-scale tertiary teaching hospital in western China between July 31, 2015, and August 31, 2021. The DNR order information, demographics, and disease-related characteristics of admitted children were analyzed.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>All DNR orders were signed by the children’s legal guardians, mainly within 3 days of death. The time to signing a DNR order was associated with disease severity, prior antitumor treatment, and overall survival time. The most common symptoms in these children were pain, restlessness, and dyspnea. Most of them had multiple distressing symptoms.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Our findings indicate that the DNR order is highly accepted by the families of children receiving palliative care, but very few children receive palliative care services in mainland China. It is necessary to improve palliative care for children and develop clearer guidelines to standardize DNR practices in mainland China.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/1087034","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147567107","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Natalie Williams, Marion Kember, Hayley Fleay, Chloe Hall-Grande, Danelle Ward
{"title":"Patient Satisfaction With Centralising Care of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease in Western Australia: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Evaluation","authors":"Natalie Williams, Marion Kember, Hayley Fleay, Chloe Hall-Grande, Danelle Ward","doi":"10.1155/ecc/1051250","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/1051250","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Introduction</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a rare, malignant form of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), and international guidelines recommend centralisation of care for best outcomes. The Western Australian Trophoblastic Centre (WATC) was established in 2023 aiming to provide centralised, person-centred care coordinated by a specialist nurse within a multidisciplinary team. This project aimed to describe the patient population and evaluate lived experience and satisfaction in this new model of care.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>An observational descriptive study utilised a review of service data to describe the profile of service users and a cross-sectional survey to collect quantitative and qualitative evaluation data. Data underwent descriptive statistical and content analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The review determined 172 people accessed the WATC from January 2023 to April 2024. The majority were treated for a partial mole (50%) or a complete mole (38%). Sixty-six service users responded to the survey. Descriptive analysis revealed an extremely high level of service satisfaction across all areas of care. The few reports of dissatisfaction related to awareness of psychological and external services and support for family member needs. Survey participants expressed mixed preference for face-to-face and telephone appointments. Within open-ended responses, participants commonly expressed satisfaction with empathetic and supportive care delivered by the specialist nurse, information provision and having access to a contact person through the service. Suggestions for improvement were associated with practical issues, such as parking and logistical challenges in attending appointments, and communication.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Satisfaction with this centralised service model for the management of GTD was extremely high, emphasising the person-centred approach coordinated by a specialist nurse. This evaluation validates service continuation in its current form and supports wider implementation of similar models in other centres for people accessing care for GTD management.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/1051250","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147566981","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Laura Pfannstiel, Elisabeth Jentschke, Saskia Ludwig, Imad Maatouk, Bianca Senf
{"title":"Suicide Ideation in Oncology: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study Exploring the Perspective of Affected Patients","authors":"Laura Pfannstiel, Elisabeth Jentschke, Saskia Ludwig, Imad Maatouk, Bianca Senf","doi":"10.1155/ecc/6611192","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ecc/6611192","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background/Aim</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Cancer patients face a higher risk of suicide than the general population, yet suicidality in oncology remains underexplored. This feasibility study aimed to inform a larger mixed-methods project by testing quantitative assessment tools on suicidal ideation (SI) and related factors and piloting a qualitative interview guide. The study explored patients’ experiences, sources of distress and SI, and interactions with healthcare professionals, while evaluating the practicality and acceptability of study procedures.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This convergent mixed-methods study combined validated questionnaires (e.g., Patient Health Questionnaire) with semistructured interviews analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Patients were recruited based on their level of distress, regardless of cancer type or stage. In order to evaluate feasibility, barriers, problems, and patient feedback were systematically documented.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Ten patients completed questionnaires, and nine also participated in interviews. Questionnaires took an average of 20.5 min, interviews 32 min, indicating good feasibility and tolerance. Participants found discussing sensitive topics manageable and sometimes relieving. Minor assistance and flexible scheduling were occasionally required. Four patients reported thoughts of wanting to die on some days in the past 2 weeks, and seven interviewees described suicidality or life-weariness since diagnosis. The qualitative data suggest that the triggers of SI are highly individual and diverse. Patients also express a strong desire for open communication with healthcare professionals about mental health and challenging topics like suicidality or death.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The study provided valuable insights into the feasibility of assessing SI and related factors in cancer patients for a larger follow-up study. Participants were generally willing to engage in questionnaires and interviews and reported no increased distress from discussing these topics. Findings suggest that SI may be an important, under-recognized aspect of cancer care. Patients expressed a desire for open communication with healthcare professionals. Further research with larger, more representative samples is needed to expand these findings.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":11953,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Cancer Care","volume":"2026 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2026-03-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1155/ecc/6611192","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147566724","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}