Evaluation of pain management in elderly cancer patients

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of cancer increases with age, and pain is one of cancer’s
most frequent and disturbing symptoms. The present study was conducted to assess
management of pain in elderly patients with cancer.
Materials & Methods: 450 elderly cancer patients of both genders were included. Daily pain
was defined as any type of physical pain or discomfort in any part of the body that was
manifested daily.
Results: Age group 65- 74 years comprised of 110 married, 75-84 years had 165 married and
>85 years had 138 married. Degree activities of daily living compromised Moderately
were 100, 150 and 120 and severely were 20, 30 and 30, degree of impaired cognitive
performance moderately was 90, 140 and 110 and severely was 30, 40 and 40. Depressed
mood was seen in 55, 138 and 125 and bedridden were 48, 70 and 55, number of drugs
taken was 7.1, 6.5 and 6.1 and daily pain was seen in 48, 54 and 35 in patients with age
group 65- 74 years, 75-84 years and >85 years. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: Daily pain is highly prevalent among elderly cancer patients.