Cancer Pain Management: Knowledge, Perception and Barriers in Malaysia

| Posted in: Science Health Sciences

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Knowledge, Perception and Barriers to Cancer Pain Management among Doctors in Malaysia
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Ting-Yi Kweh, Chian-Hui Yeoh, Huan-Keat Chan, Fazlina Ahmad


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Knowledge, Perception and Barriers to Cancer Pain Management among Doctors in Malaysia

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.3.17

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Pain management in advanced cancer patients is crucial, yet it remains inadequately addressed in many healthcare settings. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and barriers to morphine use for cancer pain management among doctors in Malaysia. Despite morphine being a primary analgesic for such cases, numerous factors, including economic issues, policies, and healthcare provider attitudes, contribute to suboptimal pain relief for patients with cancer.

Understanding Barriers to Effective Morphine Use

One significant finding from the study is the persistent fear of addiction and respiratory depression related to morphine use among healthcare professionals. Despite a general awareness of the World Health Organization's analgesic ladder and the importance of prescribing oral morphine for moderate to severe cancer pain, 34.2% of respondents perceived morphine as addictive, and 57.9% expressed concerns about respiratory depression. Moreover, nearly 69.2% of the doctors acknowledged the lack of training opportunities in cancer pain management, which amplifies these misconceptions. Such knowledge gaps contribute to a hesitancy in prescribing the necessary doses of morphine, ultimately affecting patient care.

Conclusion

This study highlights the inconsistency in knowledge and the existence of negative perceptions surrounding morphine use among Malaysian doctors, particularly among junior staff. Addressing fears regarding opioid use and enhancing educational efforts in cancer pain management are essential to improve practices among healthcare providers. By increasing awareness and confidence in using morphine, healthcare professionals can provide better care for cancer patients, ensuring their quality of life and effective pain control.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the purpose of this study regarding cancer pain management?

The study aimed to assess doctors' knowledge, perceptions, and barriers to morphine use in cancer pain management in Malaysia, highlighting inconsistencies in knowledge and negative perceptions among healthcare providers.

What were the common misconceptions about morphine among doctors?

Many doctors mistakenly believed intravenous morphine is more potent than oral morphine and that morphine has a ceiling dose. Additionally, there were concerns regarding addiction and respiratory depression associated with morphine use.

How did the respondents rate their knowledge of cancer pain management?

A majority (79.1%) believed they could assess pain, but over half were unsure about managing morphine's side effects. The level of knowledge varied significantly between junior and senior doctors.

What barriers to morphine prescription were identified in the study?

Barriers included perceived limitations in morphine access and misconceptions about maximum prescribing doses. Despite these concerns, many respondents felt the time required for patient education was not a significant barrier.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Cancer Pain Management: Knowledge, Perception and Barriers in Malaysia”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Pain:
Pain is a primary concern in cancer patients, often affecting their quality of life. It is highlighted in the study as a prevalent issue that needs effective management, particularly with opioids. Understanding pain mechanisms and patient responses is essential for healthcare professionals to provide the necessary interventions.

2) Cancer:
Cancer is a significant public health issue and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The effective management of cancer involves addressing symptoms such as pain. This study focuses particularly on cancer pain management, exploring the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers regarding treatment options available.

3) Table:
Tables in the text present quantitative data, summarizing findings in an organized manner. They facilitate easy interpretation of the study results, such as demographic characteristics or knowledge levels among healthcare professionals. Tables help researchers and practitioners quickly grasp essential findings from empirical data.

4) Knowledge:
Knowledge plays a crucial role in effective cancer pain management. The study assesses the awareness and understanding of doctors regarding pain management protocols such as the WHO analgesic ladder. Adequate knowledge can lead to better prescribing practices and ultimately improve patient care in oncology settings.

5) Study (Studying):
The study is a systematic investigation aimed at understanding doctors' knowledge, perceptions, and barriers regarding morphine use in cancer pain management. It employs a cross-sectional design, surveying healthcare professionals to gather data that will inform training needs and improve patient outcomes in pain control.

6) Perception:
Perception relates to how healthcare providers view and understand morphine use in cancer pain management. Negative perceptions, like addiction fears, can hinder effective treatment. Understanding these perceptions allows for targeted educational interventions that can reshape attitudes among healthcare providers toward pain management strategies.

7) Training:
Training is essential for healthcare professionals to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective cancer pain management. The study indicates a lack of sufficient training opportunities for medical practitioners, which contributes to inadequate pain relief practices in cancer care, underlining the need for enhanced education.

8) House:
The term 'house' refers to house officers, who are early-career doctors with limited experience. This group constitutes the majority of respondents in the study. Their perspectives are vital for identifying gaps in knowledge and training regarding cancer pain management, influencing future educational programs.

9) Fear:
Fear is a significant barrier in cancer pain management, particularly fear of addiction and respiratory depression associated with opioid use. Addressing these fears through education can reduce misconceptions among healthcare professionals and improve practices around prescribing pain management medications like morphine.

10) Life:
Life expectancy and quality of life for cancer patients are often compromised by unmanaged pain. The study examines how healthcare providers perceive opioids like morphine, focusing on misconceptions that they may shorten life, which could impact their willingness to prescribe effective analgesic treatments.

11) Depression:
Depression is a potential side effect of unmanaged cancer pain. Healthcare professionals' awareness of the psychological aspects linked to pain management is essential. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive training that includes addressing emotional well-being alongside physical symptoms in cancer treatment.

12) Medicine:
Medicine, particularly palliative care, plays a crucial role in managing cancer pain. The study reflects on the current medical practices regarding opioid use and emphasizes the importance of aligning with evidence-based guidelines for effective pain control among cancer patients.

13) Education:
Education is paramount in reshaping attitudes and improving knowledge about cancer pain management among healthcare providers. Continued education methods such as workshops and seminars can increase awareness of best practices, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes in pain management and care.

14) Rules:
In the context of medicine, rules refer to clinical guidelines and protocols that govern the prescriptions and treatment practices for pain management. The study highlights the necessity of adhering to established rules to ensure safe and effective use of opioids in patient care.

15) Family:
Family support is crucial in the context of palliative care. Understanding the dynamics of family involvement can help healthcare providers better communicate the importance of pain management plans and address fears or misconceptions about cancer treatment and the use of opioids.

16) Disease:
The term disease in the study refers specifically to cancer and its management. Gaining insights into the attitudes and knowledge of healthcare providers regarding cancer pain management is essential for improving treatment strategies and patient experiences in managing this devastating illness.

17) Khoo:
Khoo refers to one of the authors involved in the study. Collaborations among researchers enhance the credibility and expertise represented in the findings. Insights from various professionals underline the importance of multifaceted approaches in cancer pain management research.

18) Sign:
In the context of cancer care, signs refer to indicators of pain and distress in patients. A nuanced understanding of these signs is necessary for healthcare providers to initiate appropriate pain management strategies and improve overall patient comfort in their treatment journeys.

19) Radiotherapy:
Radiotherapy is a treatment modality for cancer, and understanding its role in pain management is critical. The study emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to recognize when pain may necessitate additional treatments alongside conventional pain management strategies involving opioids.

20) Drowsiness:
Drowsiness is a common side effect of opioid analgesics like morphine. Training healthcare providers to differentiate between side effects relevant to opioid use and disease progression can improve pain management strategies and enhance patient education regarding medication use.

21) Dealing:
Dealing with pain effectively is fundamental in cancer care. The healthcare providers' ability to manage patients' pain significantly affects the quality of care. This study focuses on identifying barriers that doctors face in addressing pain management directly.

22) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
Worry is related to anxieties that healthcare providers face regarding the impact of prescription opioids on patients. Education on safe prescribing practices can alleviate these worries, promoting effective pain management and supporting healthier patient-provider communication.

23) Santa (Shanta, Samta, Shamta):
Santa refers to a location or context within the study, possibly linked to a research conference or publication. Specific references to local institutions can reflect regional practices and challenges encountered in the field of cancer pain management.

24) Queen:
Queen may signify a particular institution, such as Queen Elizabeth's hospital, possibly used as a case study in cancer pain management research. Insights drawn from specific hospitals highlight the operational challenges healthcare professionals face in addressing patient needs.

25) Cina:
China's context may be referenced in the study to compare practices, beliefs, and barriers regarding cancer pain management internationally. Understanding variations in approach can help tailor educational strategies across different healthcare systems and cultures.

26) Kota:
Kota is likely linked to a specific geographical context within Malaysia, signifying a particular region or institution involved in the study. Identifying local contexts provides insight into regional practices and challenges regarding cancer pain management.

27) Line:
Line may refer to treatment lines, such as first-line or second-line therapies for managing cancer pain. Understanding these classifications is essential for healthcare providers to formulate appropriate pain management plans for different patient scenarios.

28) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the study where findings are analyzed, and implications are drawn. It allows researchers to articulate insights gleaned from data regarding knowledge gaps, perceptions, and the barriers faced in implementing effective pain management strategies.

29) Developing:
Developing effective interventions to improve knowledge and perceptions around cancer pain management is critical. Initiatives that foster growth in healthcare professionals' abilities can enhance care outcomes for cancer patients, addressing educational deficits identified in the study.

30) Substance:
Substance refers to medications, particularly opioids, used for managing cancer pain. Understanding patients' perceptions of these substances can influence their willingness to use them for pain relief, making education on their safety and effectiveness essential in clinical practice.

31) Science (Scientific):
Science underpins evidence-based medicine, guiding practices in cancer pain management. The study emphasizes the significance of relying on scientific research to educate healthcare providers, ensuring they are informed on the latest findings related to opioid use and cancer patient care.

32) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma refers to one of the authors, representing contributions to the research. Collaborations among diverse authors indicate the compilation of expertise that lends credibility to the findings, emphasizing the importance of collective insight in the field of cancer pain management.

33) Field:
Field refers to the specific area of study, in this case, cancer pain management. Insights from this field influence practices and educational curricula for healthcare providers, ensuring they are prepared to offer effective pain relief strategies to their patients.

34) Post:
Post likely pertains to the communication of findings relevant to pain management practices following the study. Disseminating results can influence broader practices within the healthcare community, ensuring that insights derived are utilized for improved patient care.

35) Drug:
Drug refers to medications such as opioids used for cancer pain management. Insights important for understanding how various drugs interact with patient care practices. Knowledge of prescribing practices affects the efficacy and safety of pain management.

36) Pur:
Poor refers to inadequate knowledge, attitudes, or practices among healthcare providers. The study emphasizes the need for continuous education to address these shortcomings and foster a culture of effective cancer pain management throughout various healthcare settings.

37) Male:
Male refers to the gender demographics of healthcare providers or patients involved in the study. Understanding differences in knowledge and perceptions among genders can reveal patterns that inform future training and educational initiatives aimed to improve cancer pain management.

Other Health Sciences Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Cancer Pain Management: Knowledge, Perception and Barriers in Malaysia’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Knowledge, Perception, Knowledge of, Serious illnesses, Maximum Dose, Palliative care, Positive attitude, Pain management, Public perception, Barrier, Addiction, Medical officer, ATTITUDE, World Health Organization, Clinical experience, Pain assessment, Cross-sectional study, Knowledge gap, Systematic Review, Inadequate Training, Self-reported questionnaire, Knowledge level, Statistical analyses, Cancer patients, Cancer pain, Limitations of Study, Knowledge Attitude, Side effect, Pethidine, Qualitative study, Educational intervention, Quasi experimental design, Respiratory depression, Healthcare professional, Healthcare provider, Negative perception, Morphine, Breakthrough pain, Advanced cancer, Pain treatment, Educational materials, Cancer-related pain, Cancer pain management, Palliative care training, Oral morphine, Opioid addiction, Training opportunities, Fisher exact test, Years of service, BMC Health Serv Res, Specialist, Local data, Healthcare worker, Local study, House officer, Opioid, Fear of addiction, Oral morphine solution, Opioid prescriptions, Senior clinicians.

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