Palliative communications: Addressing chemotherapy in patients with advanced cancer

Abstract

Patients with advanced cancers often endure chemotherapy late in their disease course leading to unnecessary adverse effects, loss of quality of life, and delay in hospice referral. Compassionate and honest communication about the use of chemotherapy can facilitate better patient care. This manuscript will explore communication issues regarding palliative-intent chemotherapy. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved.