Clarifying the term ‘palliative’ in clinical oncology

The objective of this study was to clarify the term ‘palliative’ in clinical oncology. A qualitative study design with in-depth interviews was applied. The study sample included 30 cancer patients and 16 physicians.

In clinical oncology, the use of the term ‘palliative’ to describe both anticancer treatments and palliative care may cause confusion and misunderstanding. Different aspects of palliative care, as expressed by the WHO definition, are not so easily recognizable with regard to palliative oncological treatments. Furthermore, the fact that the same anticancer treatments can be given to patients with palliative or curative intention is confusing. The distinction between curative and palliative oncological treatments is of crucial importance for the treatment decision-making process. Close consideration of the use of the term ‘palliative’ will help to clarify the various goals of treatment and care in oncological practice.