Analgesic Treatment for Cancer Pain in South East Asia

A Cross-sectional Study to Investigate the Pain Control Status in Cancer Patients in South East Asian Countries

This study is planned to investigate the pain control status in cancer patients in 6 South East Asian countries through evaluation of prescription pattern of analgesics, satisfaction of pain control, quality of life and assessment of the adequacy of pain control and relationship among these factors in cancer patients with pain. Cancer pain is undermanaged and it is hoped that this study will be used as a reference for effective cancer pain management in these countries.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult (over 18 years) cancer patients [country variation would be accepted based on the definition of adults]
2. Cancer has been diagnosed pathologically
3. Out-patients with cancer pain due to cancer itself or its treatment
4. Patients being treated with any analgesics for more than one month for the management of cancer pain at enrolment
5. Patients who are willing to voluntarily sign the study consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who have had an operation for any reasons within 3 months prior to the enrolment
2. Patients with any oncologic emergency
3. Patients who had any interventional therapy (e.g. nerve block, neurolytic procedures) related to their cancer pain within 6 weeks of study entry
4. Insufficient ability or willingness to cooperate
5. Patients who are judged not suitable to participate in this study by the investigator
6. Patients who are participating in any other interventional clinical trials for cancer treatment or supportive care