Palliative care and public health: tackling the problem of lung cancer

Jessica Corner; David Clark

Vol 3, No 3 (2004): Polish Palliative Medicine

Artykuły poglądowe

Published online: 2004-04-27

View PDF (Polish)

Download PDF file

Get Citation

Palliative care and public health: tackling the problem of lung cancer

Jessica Corner, David Clark

Advances in Palliative Medicine 2004;3(3):193-202.

Vol 3, No 3 (2004): Polish Palliative Medicine

Artykuły poglądowe

Published online: 2004-04-27

Abstract

This paper explores the issues surrounding lung cancer as a major health problem of the 21st century. The argument is made that lung cancer has been neglected in health cancer systems internationally. This is the result of nihilism surrounding the disease. Because of the view that it is almost invariably fatal and because it is a preventable disease, emphasis is placed on anti-smoking measures rather than on services for patients. Even palliative care has not tailored services to meet the needs of patients with lung cancer in any specific way. In recent years there has been a growing desire to conceptualise palliative care as a public health and preventative model of health care and this could usefully be applied to lung cancer. Addressing the need for earlier diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer could simultaneously achieve better survival outcomes as well as enhancing quality of life through palliation and support.