Characteristics and health problems of cancer patients admitted to palliative care service at the Oncology Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Vietnam has very few study on health problems of cancer patients receiving palliative care. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of characteristics and health problems of cancer patients who admitted to the palliative care department of the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital of Oncology. A cross-sectional study was conducted in cancer patients newly admitted to the palliative care department. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression models were performed to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with patient’s health problems. The main outcome is the severity of health problems, as measured with the African Palliative Care Outcomes Scale (APCA African POS). This validated questionnaire measures health outcomes of people severely affected by diseases such as cancer. A total of 134 patients enrolled in the study showed a mean total APCA African POS score of 32.2±10.8 of 67. The most common symptoms of severe intensity were pain (57.5%), mobility difficulties (45.5%) and weakness (42%). The study determined that inpatient status, the patient’s health condition, and the extent of caregivers’ involvement in social activities were significantly associated with increased APCA African POS score. Pain, weakness, mobility issues, reduced peace of mind, a sense of life’s value, lack of information, and financial constraints are prominent problems in cancer patients receiving palliative care in Vietnam. The initial assessment of the patient’s symptoms and problems prior to palliative care is essential to inform treatment discussions regarding medical prognosis in order to improve the patient’s quality of life and treatment outcomes.