Advance directives in cancer patients

Abstract

Introduction: Advance Directives (AD) represent the patient's expression about end-oflife care. Patients who have AD and discuss quality of death, take part in decision making about their care more often and have their choices respected. The diagnosis of cancer seems to favor the establishment of DA and discussions about end of life care. Methods:It is a systematic literature review that aims to assess the prevalence of AD among cancer patients and the attitude of patients and physicians across AD in the context of oncology. 10 articles were selected for the analysis in the data source of PubMed and BIREME / LILACS. Results:The prevalence of AD among cancer patients ranged from 88% among Americans at 55% in Canadian. In Europe was low, only 5% cancer patients in one study. Age, level of education, high income, worse Performace Status (PS), prolonged treatment and follow up with a team of palliative care was positive factors related to the development of Advance Directives by cancer patients. The oncologist had the lowest representation among health professionals and family in the formulation process of Advance Directives. Conclusion:The discussion on AD involves, among other things, special attention to the models of physician-patient relationship, particularly the right of choice of patient and respect for their best interest.