How well are we doing in treating cancer pain in Europe: key findings of the European Pain in Cancer report

Background The European Pain in Cancer (EPIC) survey sought to increase understanding of cancer related pain and treatment across Europe. Patients and methods Patients with all stages of cancer participated in a two phase telephone survey conducted in 11 European countries and in Israel in 2006-2007. The survey screened for patients experiencing pain at least weekly, then randomly selected adult patients with pain of at least moderate intensity occurring several times per week for the past month. Patients completed a detailed attitudinal questionnaire. Results Of 5084 adult patients contacted, 56% suffered moderate to severe pain several times a month or more in the past month. Of 573 patients with moderate to severe pain randomly selected for the second survey phase, only 41% were taking strong opioids either alone or with other drugs for cancer related pain. Of those prescribed analgesics, 63% experienced breakthrough pain and 69% reported pain related difficulties with everyday activities but 50% believed that their quality of life was not considered a priority in their overall care by their healthcare professional. Conclusions Across Europe and Israel, treatment of cancer pain is suboptimal. Pain and pain relief should be considered integral to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer; management guidelines should be revised to improve pain control in cancer patients.