Spirituality in Patients With Cancer: A Synthesis of a Program of Research

Background: Spiritual care is a key domain of quality palliative care as defined by national palliative care guidelines.

Aims: The aim of this project was to synthesize data and research experience by the authors over 30 years related to spirituality in patients with cancer. The research objectives for this analysis were to: Describe spirituality in patients with cancer. Determine the outcomes of palliative care interventions on spirituality and related variables in patients with cancer in these studies conducted by the authors. Summarize methodological issues in conducting research related to spirituality in oncology patients.

Methods: A synthesis of 15 prior studies conducted by the authors was completed and also compared to current literature regarding spirituality in cancer and other serious illness.

Results: Findings demonstrate the broad scope of spirituality, key spiritual concerns in cancer and methodological approaches to assessing spirituality.

Conclusion: Spirituality is a major concern for patients, yet limited training has been provided for clinicians who deliver this care. Additional studies are needed to advance this important aspect of palliative care.