What enhances the quality of death and dying? A perspective from patients with terminal cancer.

What is it about?

Aim:This study aimed to determine which factors improve the quality of dying and death from the point of view of patients with cancer who are nearing the end of their lives. The goal was to find out what they think are necessary conditions for a good death and how they would like to be cared for and supported at the end of their lives. Methods: This study used an exploratory research approach. Purposive sampling was used to select 21 participants from two hospices in Bengaluru and Hyderabad (Karunashraya and Sparsh), and Karnataka Cancer Hospital in Bangalore, India. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken to obtain data from the patients. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data. Results: Four themes were identified: 1) Spirituality and religiosity, 2) socioemotional support, 3) Breaking silence about the stage of the disease and 4) Preparation for and embracing death. There were distinct sub-themes within some of these that were highlighted using quotes from the participants. Conclusions: The study provided a comprehensive understanding of end-of-life care, the criteria for a high-quality end of life, strategies for achieving it, and the quality of the dying process and death in advanced cancer patients. Studying patients’ experiences will help inform a more robust intervention strategy and action plan to improve the quality of end-of-life care in the Indian community.

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Why is it important?

This qualitative study has added to the body of knowledge about the quality of end of life. It has contributed to a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that are most important to patients to prepare for the end of their lives. This study will assist in the development of assessment tools to improve the quality of dying and death. Learning about patients’ experiences will aid in the development of a better intervention plan and action to improve the quality of dying and death in India. This research can help administrators and policymakers in a variety of domains, including the service sector, public sector, commercial sector/corporations, hospitals and non-governmental organisations, to better manage the impediments to a good death.