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Alqudimat MR, Toupin April K, Jibb L, Victor C, Nathan PC, Stinson J. Assessment of complementary health approaches use in pediatric oncology: Modification and preliminary validation of the "Which Health Approaches and Treatments Are You Using?" (WHAT) questionnaires. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294393. [PMID: 38446765 PMCID: PMC10917275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Complementary Health Approaches (CHA) are commonly used by children with cancer; however, a few health care providers (HCPs) inquire about the use of CHA. A standardized questionnaire could facilitate such clinical discussions. We aimed to adapt and determine the face and content validity of the "Which Health Approaches and Treatments are you using?" (WHAT) child and parent-report questionnaires in pediatric oncology. METHODS An electronic Delphi survey that included children with cancer (8-18 years), parents, and HCPs and CHA researchers was conducted to reach consensus on the content of the WHAT questionnaires in pediatric oncology. Children and parents from the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), and HCPs and researchers from the International Society of Pediatric Oncology and Pediatric Complementary and Alternative Medicine Research and Education Network completed the survey. To determine the face and content validity of the questionnaires, two iterative cycles of individual interviews were conducted with purposive samples of children (8-18 years), parents, and HCPs from SickKids. RESULTS Consensus was reached on all domains and items of the original WHAT questionnaires after one Delphi cycle (n = 61). For face and content validity testing, the first cycle of interviews (n = 19) revealed that the questionnaires were mostly comprehensive and relevant. However, the paper-based format of the original WHAT was not user-friendly, and generic items were vague and not aimed at facilitating clinical dialogues about CHA use. The WHAT questionnaires were then modified into electronic cancer-specific self- and proxy-report questionnaires including 13 and 15 items, respectively. The second cycle (n = 21) showed no need for further changes. CONCLUSIONS The modified electronic cancer-specific WHAT questionnaires showed adequate face and content validity. The next step is to determine inter-rater reliability, construct validity, and feasibility of administration of the modified WHAT questionnaires in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad R. Alqudimat
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Child Health Evaluation Sciences, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karine Toupin April
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute and Institute du Savoir Montfort, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay Jibb
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Child Health Evaluation Sciences, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charles Victor
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul C. Nathan
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Stinson
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Child Health Evaluation Sciences, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Benedetti DJ, Beskow LM, Brown AEC. Overcoming refusal of treatment in pediatric cancer without legal involvement: A descriptive case series from interviews with pediatric oncologists. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30656. [PMID: 37638811 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
To describe strategies that pediatric oncologists utilize to persuade families to initiate or continue chemotherapy after refusing treatment, we examined transcripts from interviews of oncologists with relevant experience. We identified three cases in which the pediatric oncologists' approaches led to voluntary acceptance of recommended treatment without legal intervention. Strategies used include direct communication with alternative medicine providers, time-limited trial of alternative therapy, and praying with the family. While we cannot conclude whether these approaches could be generalized to other cases, they offer ideas for pediatric oncologists to consider when facing the decision to seek judicial involvement or discontinue persuasive efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Benedetti
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Laura M Beskow
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Amy E Caruso Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, and Center for Bioethics and Humanities, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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Benedetti DJ, Hammack-Aviran CM, Diehl C, Beskow LM. Landscape of pediatric cancer treatment refusal and abandonment in the US: A qualitative study. Front Pediatr 2023; 10:1049661. [PMID: 36699305 PMCID: PMC9869139 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1049661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe United States (US) pediatric oncologists' experiences with treatment refusal or abandonment, exploring types and frequency of decision-making conflicts, and their impact. Study design We conducted exploratory qualitative interviews of pediatric oncologists (n = 30) with experience caring for a pediatric patient who refused or abandoned curative treatment. Interviewees were recruited using convenience and nominated expert sampling, soliciting experiences from diverse geographic locations and institution sizes across the US. We analyzed transcripts using applied thematic analysis to identify and refine meaningful domains. Results Many oncologists reported multiple experiences with refusal and abandonment. Most anticipated case frequency would increase due to misinformation, particularly on the internet. Interviewees described cases of treatment refusal and abandonment, but also a wider variety of cases than previously described in existing publications, including cases involving: non-adherence; negotiations for different treatments; negotiations for complementary and alternative medicine; delayed treatment initiation; and refusal of a component of recommended therapy. Cases often involved multiple stages or types of conflicts. Recurring patient/family behaviors emerged: clear opposition to treatment from the outset; hesitancy about treatment despite initiating therapy; and psychosocial circumstances becoming an obstacle to treatment completion. Oncologists revealed substantial professional and personal repercussions of these cases. Conclusion Oncologist interviews highlight a broad range of conflicts, yielding a taxonomy of treatment refusal, non-adherence and abandonment (TRNA) that accounts for the heterogeneity of situations described. Cases' complexity and interrelatedness points to a functional model of TRNA that includes families' behaviors. This preliminary taxonomy and model warrant further research and examination to refine the model and generate strategies to prevent and mitigate TRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Benedetti
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Catherine M. Hammack-Aviran
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Carolyn Diehl
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Laura M. Beskow
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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4
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Amayiri N, Bouffet E. Treatment abandonment and refusal among children with central nervous system tumors in Jordan. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29054. [PMID: 34022111 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment abandonment and refusal are reported to contribute significantly to poor survival of children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to assess this phenomenon among children diagnosed with central nervous system (CNS) tumors in Jordan. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of children <18 years diagnosed with CNS tumors (2010-2020). Patients who abandoned or refused part of treatment were reviewed for their clinical characteristics, social circumstances, and possible reasons. We excluded patients referred for second opinion, radiotherapy only, or who traveled abroad for treatment. RESULTS Four hundred seventy-three Jordanian children were identified; 12 families (2.5%) abandoned treatment, and 15 refused part of therapy (3%). Most patients were females (67%) and most had good or moderate performance status (89%). Most families (93%) lived within 2 hours from King Hussein Cancer Center. Most parents were university graduates (71%) and all fathers were employed, while 71% of mothers were housewives. The most common reasons to abandon or refuse therapy were treatment intensity in view of poor tumor outcome or bad quality of life, conflicting recommendations from other health care providers, "personal beliefs" against chemotherapy, and preference to use alternative medicine. CONCLUSIONS Treatment abandonment and refusal in Jordanian children with CNS tumors is low. Universal cancer insurance, high level of education in the country, centralized cancer care in one institution, and the twinning program likely contributed to our low incidence. Improving knowledge on CNS tumors and better community rehabilitation and supportive services may help further decrease the abandonment and treatment refusal rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisreen Amayiri
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Eric Bouffet
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Diorio C, Kelly KM, Afungchwi GM, Ladas EJ, Marjerrison S. Nutritional traditional and complementary medicine strategies in pediatric cancer: A narrative review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2020; 67 Suppl 3:e28324. [PMID: 32614139 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) strategies are commonly used by pediatric cancer patients. Nutritional approaches to T&CM include bioactive compounds, supplements, and herbs as well as dietary approaches. Pediatric cancer patients and their families commonly request and use nutritional T&CM strategies. We review the potential risks and benefits of nutritional T&CM use in pediatric cancer care and provide an overview of some commonly used and requested supplements, including probiotics, antioxidants, cannabinoids, vitamins, turmeric, mistletoe, Carica papaya, and others. We also discuss the role of specific diets such as the ketogenic diet, caloric restriction diets, whole-food diets, and immune modulating diets. There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of some T&CM agents for the supportive care of children with cancer. However, further study is needed into these agents and approaches. Open communication with families about T&CM use is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diorio
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kara M Kelly
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | | | - Elena J Ladas
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Stacey Marjerrison
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, L8N 3Z5, Canada
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Lan BN, Castor A, Wiebe T, Toporski J, Moëll C, Hagander L. Adherence to childhood cancer treatment: a prospective cohort study from Northern Vietnam. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026863. [PMID: 31383696 PMCID: PMC6687055 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Global incidence and attention to childhood cancer is increasing and treatment abandonment is a major cause of treatment failure in low- and middle-income countries. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of factors contributing to non-adherence to treatment. DESIGN A prospective cohort study with 2 year follow-up of incidence, family-reported motives and risk factors. SETTING The largest tertiary paediatric oncology centre in Northern Vietnam. PARTICIPANTS All children offered curative cancer treatment, from January 2008 to December 2009. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Family decision to start treatment was analysed with multivariable logistic regression, and family decision to continue treatment was analysed with a multivariable Cox model. This assessment of non-adherence is thereby methodologically consistent with the accepted definitions and recommended practices for evaluation of treatment abandonment. RESULTS Among 731 consecutively admitted patients, 677 were eligible for treatment and were followed for a maximum 2 years. Almost half the parents chose to decline curative care (45.5%), either before (35.2%) or during (10.3%) the course of treatment. Most parents reported perceived poor prognosis as the main reason for non-adherence, followed by financial constraints and traditional medicine preference. The odds of starting treatment increased throughout the study-period (OR 1.04 per month (1.01 to 1.07), p=0.002), and were independently associated with prognosis (OR 0.51 (0.41 to 0.64), p=<0.0001) and travel distance to hospital (OR 0.998 per km (0.996 to 0.999), p=0.004). The results also suggest that adherence to initiated treatment was significantly higher among boys than girls (HR 1.69 (1.05 to 2.73), p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Non-adherence influenced the prognosis of childhood cancer, and was associated with cultural and local perceptions of cancer and the economic power of the affected families. Prevention of abandonment is a prerequisite for successful cancer care, and a crucial early step in quality improvements to care for all children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bui Ngoc Lan
- Pediatric Oncology Hematology Center, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital (VNCH), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anders Castor
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Wiebe
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jacek Toporski
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christian Moëll
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Hagander
- Pediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Diorio C, Afanasiev M, Salena K, Marjerrison S. 'A world of competing sorrows': A mixed methods analysis of media reports of children with cancer abandoning conventional treatment. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209738. [PMID: 30576389 PMCID: PMC6303077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to provide health practitioners greater insight into the public perception of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) use. Our objectives were to identify news media reports of children abandoning conventional treatment for traditional and complementary medicine, analyze the thematic content of these news articles and estimate the tonality portrayed. METHODS LexisNexis and Factiva were searched for terms related to cancer, children and T&CM. Inclusion criteria were children less than 18 years, in curative phase of treatment who attempted to abandon conventional therapy for any traditional and complementary medicine use. A secondary search was performed in LexisNexis, Factiva and Google News Archive with the names of children in identified cases. Qualitative analysis of news media reports was completed using a grounded theory approach. Quantitative analysis of article sentiment was performed using a linear support vector machine. RESULTS Seventeen cases occurring between 2002 and 2016 were included. Five main themes were identified: treatment as torture, power imbalances, rights of parents, evidence versus beliefs and the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Sentiment analysis revealed an overall negative tone, as demonstrated by 73% of the articles. INTERPRETATION A better understanding of factors that lead to abandonment of conventional therapy for traditional and complementary medicine as portrayed in the news media may help healthcare providers prevent the occurrence of these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diorio
- McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, Canada
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | | | - Kristen Salena
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Stacey Marjerrison
- McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Abstract
The diagnosis of cancer in a child leaves parents and families devastated and vulnerable. In an effort to do everything possible, families often choose an integrative medicine approach to their child's care. Surveys have found that 31%-84% of children with cancer use complementary and alternative medicine and most often as supportive care agents. Several systematic reviews have demonstrated a clinical benefit for some select therapies; however, the safety and efficacy of the combination of biological therapies with conventional treatment remain largely unknown and garner concern due to the potential for interactions with conventional therapy. Given the sustained use and potential benefit of integrative medicine, additional research is warranted in pediatric oncology. Utilizing the available literature, clinical providers should aim to conduct open and nonjudgmental discussions with families about the use of integrative medicine so as to guide the safe integration of the two modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Ladas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant, Columbia University Medical Center , New York, New York
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9
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Winters JP. When Parents Refuse: Resolving Entrenched Disagreements Between Parents and Clinicians in Situations of Uncertainty and Complexity. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2018; 18:20-31. [PMID: 30133394 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2018.1485758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
When shared decision making breaks down and parents and medical providers have developed entrenched and conflicting views, ethical frameworks are needed to find a way forward. This article reviews the evolution of thought about the best interest standard and then discusses the advantages of the harm principle (HP) and the zone of parental discretion (ZPD). Applying these frameworks to parental refusals in situations of complexity and uncertainty presents challenges that necessitate concrete substeps to analyze the big picture and identify key questions. I outline and defend a new decision-making tool that includes three parts: identifying the nature of the disagreement, checklists for key elements of the HP and ZPD, and a "think list" of specific questions designed to enhance use of the HP and ZPD in clinical decision making. These tools together will assist those embroiled in complex disagreements to disentangle the issues to find a path to resolution.
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10
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Vasquez L, Diaz R, Chavez S, Tarrillo F, Maza I, Hernandez E, Oscanoa M, García J, Geronimo J, Rossell N. Factors associated with abandonment of therapy by children diagnosed with solid tumors in Peru. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e27007. [PMID: 29431252 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abandonment of treatment is a major cause of treatment failure and poor survival in children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries. The incidence of treatment abandonment in Peru has not been reported. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of and factors associated with treatment abandonment by pediatric patients with solid tumors in Peru. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the sociodemographic and clinical data of children referred between January 2012 and December 2014 to the two main tertiary centers for childhood cancer in Peru. The definition of treatment abandonment followed the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, Paediatric Oncology in Developing Countries, Abandonment of Treatment recommendation. RESULTS Data from 1135 children diagnosed with malignant solid tumors were analyzed, of which 209 (18.4%) abandoned treatment. Bivariate logistic regression analysis showed significantly higher abandonment rates in children living outside the capital city, Lima (forest; odds ratio [OR] 3.25; P < 0.001), those living in a rural setting (OR 3.44; P < 0.001), and those whose parent(s) lacked formal employment (OR 4.39; P = 0.001). According to cancer diagnosis, children with retinoblastoma were more likely to abandon treatment compared to children with other solid tumors (OR 1.79; P = 0.02). In multivariate regression analyses, rural origin (OR 2.02; P = 0.001) and lack of formal parental employment (OR 2.88; P = 0.001) were independently predictive of abandonment. CONCLUSION Treatment abandonment prevalence of solid tumors in Peru is high and closely related to sociodemographical factors. Treatment outcomes could be substantially improved by strategies that help prevent abandonment of therapy based on these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Vasquez
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Rosdali Diaz
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Sharon Chavez
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Fanny Tarrillo
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Ivan Maza
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Eddy Hernandez
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Monica Oscanoa
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Juan García
- Pediatric Oncology, National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases, Lima, Peru
| | - Jenny Geronimo
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Nuria Rossell
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Sciences Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Willig L, Paquette E, Hester DM, Warady BA, Lantos JD. Parents Refusing Dialysis for a 3-Month-Old With Renal Failure. Pediatrics 2018; 141:peds.2017-2096. [PMID: 29490907 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2017-2096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A 3-month-old boy with failure to thrive was referred to a nephrology clinic after a diagnostic workup for failure to thrive revealed a serum urea nitrogen level of 95 mg/dL and creatinine level of 3.6 mg/dL. A renal ultrasound revealed marked bilateral hydronephrosis with little remaining renal cortex in either kidney. A voiding cystourethrogram revealed evidence of posterior urethral valves. The child had no evident comorbidities. Fulguration of the valves was successfully performed but did not lead to improvement in kidney function. The nephrologists recommended the initiation of dialysis with the hope that the child would be able to receive a kidney transplant in the future. After careful consideration, the family stated that they did not want this child to suffer with a lifetime of dialysis and transplant care. They were also concerned about the impact of this child's illness on their other 2 children and their family. They requested that their son be provided with palliative care only. Experts in nephrology, bioethics, and critical care discuss the ethical issues raised by this parental request.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin Paquette
- Division of Critical Care, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - D Micah Hester
- Division of Medical Humanities, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | | | - John D Lantos
- Children's Mercy Bioethics Center, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri;
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12
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A systematic review of integrative clinical trials for supportive care in pediatric oncology: a report from the International Society of Pediatric Oncology, T&CM collaborative. Support Care Cancer 2017; 26:375-391. [PMID: 29026997 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3908-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) use in children with cancer is well established among high-income, upper middle-income, low-middle-income, and low-income countries (HIC, UMIC, LMIC, LIC, respectively). In HIC, a developing body of evidence exists for several T&CM therapies; however, evidence in other income settings is less well described despite a significantly higher use when compared to reports from HIC. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence for T&CM for a variety of supportive care indications among children with cancer. METHODS We performed a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines of randomized, controlled clinical trials from inception through September 2016. Our eligibility criteria were limited to T&CM studies performed in children and adolescents undergoing treatment for a pediatric malignancy. RESULTS Of 6342 studies identified, 44 met inclusion criteria. Two clinical trials reported on acupuncture, 1 reported on aromatherapy, 9 evaluated massage therapy, and 32 reported on dietary supplements. Twenty-two studies were performed in HIC, 15 in UMIC, and 7 in LMIC. T&CM therapies were most commonly investigated for the prevention or management of mucositis, weight loss, and febrile neutropenia. Encouraging results were reported for select interventions; however, the majority of studies were classified as poor to fair quality. CONCLUSION Our search revealed numerous clinical studies investigating the use of T&CM for supportive care purposes in pediatric oncology in HIC, UMIC, and LMIC. Although limited, these results could inform supportive care resource allocation and indicate where T&CM may serve to fill gaps where access to care may be limited.
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13
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Caruso Brown AE. At the Intersection of Faith, Culture, and Family Dynamics: A Complex Case of Refusal of Treatment for Childhood Cancer. THE JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ETHICS 2017. [DOI: 10.1086/jce2017283228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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14
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Baumrucker SJ, Easterday J, Stolick M, McCall-Burton M, Adkins RW, Winiger D, Cook C. Ethics Roundtable. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 34:287-292. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909115608812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. Baumrucker
- Department of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Wellmont Health System, Kingsport, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer Easterday
- Department of Family Medicine, ETSU College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Matt Stolick
- Philosophy, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel Winiger
- Division of Pastoral Care, Wellmont Health System, Kingsport, TN, USA
| | - Cathleen Cook
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, ETSU, Johnson City, TN, USA
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15
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Diorio C, Lam CG, Ladas EJ, Njuguna F, Afungchwi GM, Taromina K, Marjerrison S. Global Use of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in Childhood Cancer: A Systematic Review. J Glob Oncol 2016; 3:791-800. [PMID: 29244989 PMCID: PMC5735959 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.2016.005587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) strategies are commonly used in pediatric oncology. Patterns may vary based on country income. We systematically reviewed published studies describing T&CM use among pediatric oncology patients in low-income countries (LIC/LMIC), middle-income countries (UMIC), and high-income countries (HIC). Objectives included describing estimated prevalence of use, reasons for use, perceived effectiveness, modalities used, rates of disclosure, and reporting of delayed or abandoned treatment. Methods MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ProceedingsFirst were searched. Inclusion criteria were primary studies involving children younger than the age of 18 years, undergoing active treatment of cancer, and any T&CM use. Exclusion criteria included no pediatric oncology–specific outcomes and studies involving only children off active treatment. Data were extracted by two reviewers using a systematic data extraction form determined a priori. Results Sixty-five studies published between 1977 and 2015 were included, representing 61 unique data sets and 7,219 children from 34 countries. The prevalence of T&CM use ranged from 6% to 100%. Median rates of use were significantly different in LIC/LMIC (66.7% ± 19%), UMIC (60% ± 26%), and HIC (47.2% ± 20%; P = .02). Rates of disclosure differed significantly by country income, with higher median rates in HIC. Seven studies reported on treatment abandonment or delays. Conclusion The use of T&CM in pediatric oncology is common worldwide, with higher median prevalence of use reported in LIC/LMIC. Further research is warranted to examine the impact on treatment abandonment and delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diorio
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Catherine G Lam
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Elena J Ladas
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Festus Njuguna
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Glenn M Afungchwi
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Katherine Taromina
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
| | - Stacey Marjerrison
- Caroline Diorio and Stacey Marjerrison, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Catherine G. Lam, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Elena J. Ladas and Katherine Taromina, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY; Festus Njuguna, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; and Glenn M. Afungchwi, Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo, Cameroon
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16
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Nickels AS, Myers GD, Johnson LM, Joshi A, Sharp RR, Lantos JD. Can Parents Refuse a Potentially Lifesaving Transplant for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency? Pediatrics 2016; 138:peds.2016-0892. [PMID: 27307145 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-0892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
If untreated, most children with severe combined immunodeficiency disorder (SCID) will die of complications of infection within the first 2 years of life. Early hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is the current standard of care for this disease. Although potentially lifesaving, prognosis of HSCT in SCID is variable depending on a number of host and donor factors. Of the survivors, many develop secondary problems such as chronic graft-versus-host disease or even second malignancies. Posttransplant care is complex and requires great effort from parents to adhere to difficult treatment regimens. In this article, we address the difficult ethical question of what to do if parents choose not to have their child with SCID undergo HSCT but prefer palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Nickels
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Medicine, Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee;
| | - G Douglas Myers
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Liza-Marie Johnson
- Department of Hospital Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee; and
| | - Avni Joshi
- Division of Pediatric Allergy/Immunology, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, and
| | - Richard R Sharp
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - John D Lantos
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri
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17
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Friedrich P, Lam CG, Itriago E, Perez R, Ribeiro RC, Arora RS. Magnitude of Treatment Abandonment in Childhood Cancer. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135230. [PMID: 26422208 PMCID: PMC4589240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment abandonment (TxA) is recognized as a leading cause of treatment failure for children with cancer in low-and-middle-income countries (LMC). However, its global frequency and burden have remained elusive due to lack of global data. This study aimed to obtain an estimate using survey and population data. METHODS Childhood cancer clinicians (medical oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists), nurses, social workers, and psychologists involved in care of children with cancer were approached through an online survey February-May 2012. Incidence and population data were obtained from public sources. Descriptive, univariable, and multivariable analyses were conducted. RESULTS 602 responses from 101 countries were obtained from physicians (84%), practicing pediatric hematology/oncology (83%) in general or children's hospitals (79%). Results suggested, 23,854 (15%) of 155,088 children <15 years old newly diagnosed with cancer annually in the countries analyzed, abandon therapy. Importantly, 83% of new childhood cancer cases and 99% of TxA were attributable to LMC. The annual number of cases of TxA expected in LMC worldwide (26,166) was nearly equivalent to the annual number of cancer cases in children <15 years expected in HIC (26,368). Approximately two thirds of LMC had median TxA ≥ 6%, but TxA ≥ 6% was reported in high- (9%), upper-middle- (41%), lower-middle- (80%), and low-income countries (90%, p<0.001). Most LMC centers reporting TxA > 6% were outside the capital. Lower national income category, higher reliance on out-of-pocket payments, and high prevalence of economic hardship at the center were independent contextual predictors for TxA ≥ 6% (p<0.001). Global survival data available for more developed and less developed regions suggests TxA may account for at least a third of the survival gap between HIC and LMC. CONCLUSION Results show TxA is prevalent (compromising cancer survival for 1 in 7 children globally), confirm the suspected high burden of TxA in LMC, and illustrate the negative impact of poverty on its occurrence. The present estimates may appear small compared to the global burden of child death from malnutrition and infection (measured in millions). However, absolute numbers suggest the burden of TxA in LMC is nearly equivalent to annually losing all kids diagnosed with cancer in HIC just to TxA, without even considering deaths from disease progression, relapse or toxicity-the main causes of childhood cancer mortality in HIC. Results document the importance of monitoring and addressing TxA as part of childhood cancer outcomes in at-risk settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Friedrich
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Catherine G. Lam
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
- International Outreach Program, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Elena Itriago
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rafael Perez
- Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Raul C. Ribeiro
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
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18
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Refusal of therapy is ethically acceptable for competent adults. Practitioner opinions regarding refusal of therapy in pediatric cancer patients has not been widely studied. This is the largest survey of oncology practitioners assessing support for refusal of chemotherapy. PROCEDURE Pediatric oncology nurses/physicians were asked: "As their provider I would support refusal of chemotherapy by a family," with the following options: "Never support refusal," "Always support refusal," or "Support for refusal would depend on cure rate, age, or both." Variables assessed were: age (0 to 7, 8 to 13, 14 to 17 y) and cure rate (0% to 33%, 34% to 66%, 67% to 100%). RESULTS A total of 957 practitioners responded. Fifty-six percent, 31%, and 0.2%, respectively, stated their support of chemotherapy refusal depended on "age and cure rate," "cure rate alone," or "age alone." Two percent and 11% indicated they would "always" or "never" support refusal, respectively. For a "modest" or "good" cure rate, support for refusal was <20%, whereas for a "poor" cure rate, the majority would support a family's refusal (53% to 78% age dependent). Within each cure rate, respondents were more likely to support refusal for older patients (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The majority of practitioners surveyed viewed parental refusal of chemotherapy for children with a moderate or good expected cure rate as unacceptable, but were more accepting of refusal with a poor prognosis, especially for teenagers.
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19
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Greenberg RA, Weingarten K. When health care professionals say "more" and parents say "enough". Paediatr Child Health 2015; 20:131-4. [PMID: 25914570 DOI: 10.1093/pch/20.3.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R A Greenberg
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario; ; Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - K Weingarten
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario; ; Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
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20
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Weidner NJ, Plantz DM. Ethical considerations in the management of analgesia in terminally ill pediatric patients. J Pain Symptom Manage 2014; 48:998-1003. [PMID: 24681109 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2013.12.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated the significant symptom burden present at the end of life of terminally ill children. Medicine has always viewed the relief of pain and suffering as a fundamental human right and a moral and ethical obligation. At the end of life, pain and dyspnea are symptoms commonly experienced by both adults and children. Opioids are the mainstay in treating the suffering associated with pain and dyspnea; however, there exist several barriers to the use of opioids. We describe a case in which parents prevent a young patient from receiving adequate pain management during the course of a terminal illness. We discuss the importance of recognizing the barriers to opioid use and the ethical ramifications of failing to find common ground with the family. We highlight parental responsibilities and limitations of parental authority in decision making for their child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert J Weidner
- Division of Pain and Palliative Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
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21
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Squires RH, Ng V, Romero R, Ekong U, Hardikar W, Emre S, Mazariegos GV. Evaluation of the pediatric patient for liver transplantation: 2014 practice guideline by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, American Society of Transplantation and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. Hepatology 2014; 60:362-98. [PMID: 24782219 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Squires
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine; Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA
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22
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Marjerrison S, Pole JD, Sung L. Inferior survival among Aboriginal children with cancer in Ontario. Cancer 2014; 120:2751-9. [PMID: 24824592 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.28762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric cancer distribution and outcomes have not been examined in Canadian Aboriginal children. The objective of this study was to describe the distribution, event-free survival, and overall survival of Aboriginal children with malignancies who reside in Ontario compared with non-Aboriginal children. METHODS This population-based study included 10,520 Ontario children (aged <18 years) who were diagnosed with cancer between 1985 and 2011. Patients were identified from the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario Networked Information System database. Aboriginal children were identified by self-reported ethnicity or postal code on a Native reserve at diagnosis. Descriptive statistics of the patients were presented and compared using the Fisher exact test. Event-free and overall survival probabilities were calculated for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children, described using Kaplan-Meier curves, and compared using log-rank tests. RESULTS In total, 65 Aboriginal children and 10,364 non-Aboriginal children with malignancy were identified. The distribution of malignancy type was similar between the 2 groups. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics, presence of metastatic disease, or treatment approach (clinical trial, standard of care, or individualized protocol) between the groups. The 5e-year event-free survival rate (± standard error) was 56.3% ± 6.2% among Aboriginal children versus 72.8% ± 0.4% among non-Aboriginal children (P = .0042), and the 5-year overall survival rate was 64% ± 6.0% versus 79.3 ± 0.4% (P = .0017), respectively. The cause of death did not vary according to Aboriginal ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS Survival was significantly inferior among Aboriginal children who had cancer compared with non-Aboriginal children who had cancer in Ontario. Future studies are required to define the etiology of this disparity, evaluate the issue nationally, and create interventions to improve outcomes for Aboriginal children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Marjerrison
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Kumar A, Moulik NR, Mishra RK, Kumar D. Causes, outcome and prevention of abandonment in retinoblastoma in India. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60:771-5. [PMID: 23303533 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.24454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high-cure rates of 90% in retinoblastoma are not replicated in developing countries due to late presentation and poor compliance to treatment. The present study takes a closer look at causes of abandonment of therapy and effectiveness of counselling in reducing abandonment. PROCEDURE A retrospective study of children with retinoblastoma registered at our centre from March 2008 through August 2011. RESULTS Fifty (49.50%) of 101 children registered for treatment abandoned therapy. Abandonment rates were significantly higher in rural as compared to urban children (P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in rate of abandonment between stages or laterality of disease and other socio-demographic factors. Telephone calls were more effective than letters in tracing patients (31.2% vs. 2.4%). Major reasons cited behind abandonment were financial problems (30%) and unwillingness to enucleate (20%). Of the 12 children who returned and were retreated 6 (50%) died of progressive disease. Nineteen (73%) of those who did not return died at home. Abandonment rates steadily declined from 71.42% in 2008 to 16.66% in 2011 (P = 0.01) due to effective pre-abandonment counselling by a support team under the National Retinoblastoma Registry of India from 2009. CONCLUSIONS Abandonment rates for children with retinoblastoma continue to be unacceptably high. Rural background, financial constraints and hesitancy to enucleate were important causes behind abandonment. Outcome of patients who abandoned treatment was uniformly dismal. Inclusion of support team and intensified initial counselling helped in improving compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Kumar
- Division of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, King George's Medical University Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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24
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Shuman AG, Shaha AR, Tuttle RM, Fins JJ, Morris LGT. Medullary thyroid carcinoma: ethical issues for the surgeon. Ann Surg Oncol 2012; 19:2102-7. [PMID: 22322952 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-012-2235-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer is a disease with an established genetic inheritance pattern for which evidence-based guidelines recommend genetic testing and subsequent management of affected patients and their family members. The perceived stigma of genetic testing, coupled with issues involving confidentiality and disclosure, create potential conflict and confusion. In some cases, there is a need for genetic testing and prophylactic surgery in children, augmenting the need for a judicious approach that balances respect for individual autonomy and parental rights with the best interest of the child. We provide an overview of the ethical issues facing surgeons caring for patients with familial medullary thyroid carcinoma, and recommend interventions and resources to assist in decision making in these difficult situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew G Shuman
- Department of Surgery, Head and Neck Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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25
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Wang YR, Jin RM, Xu JW, Zhang ZQ. A report about treatment refusal and abandonment in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in China, 1997–2007. Leuk Res 2011; 35:1628-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2011] [Revised: 06/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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26
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Abstract
Although treatment refusal is an infrequent occurrence in paediatric oncology, it is an important issue that threatens the ongoing therapeutic relationship between the health-care team and families. While there are good reasons to support the decision-making authority of parents in the medical setting, parents' rights in this respect are not absolute. Fortunately, most disagreements between clinicians and parents regarding treatment decisions for children are resolved within the health-care team/family dyad or with the objective advice of other clinicians or clinical ethics services. The increasing appeal of 'natural therapies' and unsubstantiated confidence with which they are prescribed may lead to more frequent refusal of conventional, evidence-based oncology treatment in the future. The harm principle may assist paediatric oncologists in the difficult task of determining when it is justifiable to refer a case for judicial intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela J Alessandri
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and the School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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27
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Pediatric ethics guidelines for hereditary medullary thyroid cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY 2011; 2011:847603. [PMID: 21436957 DOI: 10.1155/2011/847603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary medullary thyroid cancer is an aggressive cancer for which there is no standard effective systemic therapy, but which can be prevented through genetic screening and prophylactic thyroidectomy. Although this cancer accounts for roughly 17% of all pediatric thyroid cancers, a significant percentage of affected families do not "accept" screening, while many gene carriers delay or refuse prophylactic thyroid surgery for their children. Current genetic screening practices in medullary thyroid cancer are inadequate; more than 50% of index patients with hereditary medullary thyroid cancer present with a thyroid mass; up to 75% have distant metastasis. These proposed pediatric ethics guidelines focus on two ethical issues that affect at-risk children: (1) how do we identify at-risk children whose RET-positive relative refuses to disclose that they carry the mutation? (2) How do we protect RET-positive children whose parents refuse prophylactic thyroidectomy?
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28
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Talati ED, Lang CW, Ross LF. Reactions of pediatricians to refusals of medical treatment for minors. J Adolesc Health 2010; 47:126-32. [PMID: 20638004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2010.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2009] [Revised: 03/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment refusals in pediatrics must balance parental decision-making authority and best interest. General pediatricians and subspecialists were surveyed to understand the factors that influence their responses to refusals including (1) prognosis, (2) concordance of parent-minor decision, and (3) minor autonomy. METHODS Of 1,120 eligible pediatricians, 421 (37.6%) randomly selected from the American Academy of Pediatrics Web-based Directory completed a survey about their reactions to refusals of treatment by parents, minors, or both in cancer scenarios with a 5-year expected overall survival of 80% or 15% for both an 11-year-old and a 16-year-old minor. Statistical analyses compared pediatrician willingness to respect a refusal and the relative importance of various factors to explain physician reasoning. RESULTS Pediatricians were less likely to respect refusals when prognosis was good. Pediatricians were most likely to respect a refusal when prognosis was poor and when parent and minor concurred in their decision (93%, n = 360/385 for the 16-year-old vs. 89%, n = 345/386 for the 11-year-old, p < .05). When parent-minor dyad disagreed, pediatricians were more likely to accept a refusal by a 16-year-old minor as compared with an 11-year-old (28%, n = 111/393 vs. 4%, n = 18/405 in good prognosis, p < .001; and 65%, n = 251/384 vs. 20%, n = 79/389 in poor prognosis, p < .05). CONCLUSIONS Pediatricians' decisions whether to respect treatment refusals for minor patients are multifactorial. When prognosis is good, best interest dominates. When prognosis is poor, parental authority is more important in younger minors, and minor autonomy is more important in older minors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D Talati
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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29
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Abstract
Abstract
Evidence for integrative therapies (IT) in children with hematological malignancies is slowly evolving. The ideal model of integrative pediatric oncology would offer IT modalities that are deemed safe and effective in conjunction with effective conventional medical treatments. Because of potential interactions, herbs and other dietary supplements should be used with caution, especially during active therapy. Health and wellness should be the emphasis, with IT therapies supporting health promotion and key disease prevention strategies for childhood cancer survivors. All uses, responses, and effects of IT therapies should be carefully documented. A desire to use IT therapies may be an effort to become an active participant in the healing process. Health care providers should encourage, not discourage, this partnership.
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30
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Leonis MA, Balistreri WF. Evaluation and management of end-stage liver disease in children. Gastroenterology 2008; 134:1741-51. [PMID: 18471551 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2008.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2007] [Revised: 02/05/2008] [Accepted: 02/11/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease in children presents a challenging array of medical and psychosocial problems for the health care delivery team. Many of these problems are similar to those encountered by caregivers of adults with end-stage liver disease, such as the development of complications of cirrhosis, including ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and esophageal variceal hemorrhage. However, the natural history of disease progression in children and their responses to medical therapy can differ significantly from that of their adult counterparts. Children with end-stage liver disease are especially vulnerable to nutritional compromise; if not effectively managed, this can seriously impact long-term outcomes and survival both before and after liver transplantation. Moreover, close attention must be given to vaccination status and the clinical setting at which health care is delivered to optimize outcomes and the delivery of high-quality pediatric health care. In this review, we address important components of the evaluation and management of children with chronic end-stage liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike A Leonis
- Pediatric Liver Care Center, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, and Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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31
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Zieber S, Friebert S. Pediatric cancer care: special issues in ethical decision making. Cancer Treat Res 2008; 140:93-115. [PMID: 18283772 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-73639-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Zieber
- Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN 37232-6310, USA
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