European Health Care Chaplaincy Library

 

Reference:balboni2007-1

Title:
Religiousness and Spiritual Support Among Advanced Cancer Patients and Associations With End-of-Life Treatment Preferences and Quality of Life

Author:
Tracy A. Balboni, Lauren C. Vanderwerker, Susan D. Block, M. Elizabeth Paulk, Christopher S. Lathan, John R. Peteet, and Holly G. Prigerson

Form:
Journal Article

Full Publiction Details:
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY VOLUME 25 _ NUMBER 5 _ FEBRUARY 10 2007

Original language:
English

Key words:
Spirituality, Religion, Oncology, Quality of life, End of life

Abstract:
Religion and spirituality play a role in coping with illness for many cancer patients. This study examined religiousness and spiritual support in advanced cancer patients of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds and associations with quality of life (QOL), treatment preferences, and advance care planning.

Conclusion: Many advanced cancer patients' spiritual needs are not supported by religious communities or the medical system, and spiritual support is associated with better QOL. Religious individuals more frequently want aggressive measures to extend life.

Link to full text:

  balboni2007-1.pdf