Embracing paediatric palliative care in paediatric oncology from diagnosis onwards

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2023 Oct;70(10):e30561. doi: 10.1002/pbc.30561. Epub 2023 Jul 10.

Abstract

Paediatric palliative care aims to support children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, and their families, from the time of diagnosis. Early integration within oncology has been recognised as having benefits for all involved, whatever the outcome may be. Through improved communication and advance care planning, it enables user-centred care, where concerns about quality of life, preferences and values are given the same relevance as cutting-edge therapy. Challenges to the integration of palliative care within paediatric oncology include raising awareness and providing education, whilst searching for the best care model and adapting to an ever-changing therapeutic scenario.

Keywords: early integration; models of care; multidisciplinary care team; oncology; paediatrics; palliative care.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Advance Care Planning*
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology
  • Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Palliative Care
  • Quality of Life