Pijn bij kanker

- Out of 240 patients hospitalized because of cancer, 45 were found to be in pain. 54 of those whose pain was due to the tumorous process attributed it to some other cause. 59 had themselves found ways to alleviate the pain; 28 reported total incapacity for daily activities because of pain. After discharge, 49 were found to use fewer analgetics at home than they did in hospital.

Two independent assessors evaluated the measures taken to combat the pain, and judged them inadequate in 54. In particular, more analgetics should have been prescribed, but neurosurgery and epidural catheters might also have reduced pain further. The general practitioner's part in pain abatement at home is described.