Mesothelioma specialists are all-too aware that the rare, asbestos-related disease is a terminal disease. But a recent study suggests that message may not be getting across to patients and their caregivers, particularly when patients are under the age of 70.
Clear Communication is Essential When Discussing Mesothelioma Treatment
The mesothelioma study specifically examined patients understanding of the use of palliative chemotherapy. Unlike curative chemotherapy, whose realistic goal is to extend life by a period of months, palliative chemotherapy is used to alleviate symptoms and make patients more comfortable and to improve their quality of life during the time remaining to them.
Writing in the journal BMC Palliative Care, researchers from the University of Southern Denmark and Odense University describe what they found when speaking to mesothelioma patients and their family members about their expectations.
Mesothelioma Patient Age Impacts Expectations for Palliative Chemotherapy
The researchers found a distinct difference in the expectations and understanding of families of patients younger than 70 and those who are 70 and older. The younger patients and their families expected chemotherapy to cure their cancers, even if they had been informed that the treatment was palliative and strictly meant to make the patients more comfortable.
Though not all of the 48 patients included in the study had malignant mesothelioma, all had thoracic cancers being treated with palliative chemotherapy. Among those who were 70 or older, only 7 percent of family members and patients had expectations of a cure, while 28 percent of those with patients under the age of 70 had that expectation.
Researchers Stress Need for Clear Communication Surrounding Mesothelioma
Speaking of their findings, lead author Dr. Tine Ikander said, “This study emphasizes the importance of initiating conversations about treatment expectations and paying attention to expectations that may differ by the age of the patient and between patients and family caregivers.” The study concluded, “Addressing treatment expectations among patients and family caregivers and monitoring quality of life among patients is important in clinical practice.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, it is important that you have a clear understanding of what lays ahead. For access to resources and information, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
