E. Vuorinen et al., BACKLASH IN THE TREATMENT OF CANCER PAIN - USE OF OPIOID ANALGESICS IN A FINNISH GENERAL-HOSPITAL IN 1987, 1991, AND 1994, Journal of pain and symptom management, 14(5), 1997, pp. 286-291
Finland belongs to the group of countries in which the consumption of
strong opioids is low. This seems to reflect the general qualify of ca
ncer pain treatment. During the last 10 years, many efforts have been
made to improve the treatment of cancer lain in Finland. To assess one
parameter of change, the present study compared the quantity of opioi
d and nonopioid analgesics used in the treatment of terminal cancer pa
in in a Finnish general hospital in 1987, 1991, and 1994. Specifically
the records of all patients who died of cancer in Kymenlaakso Central
Hospital (KCH) in 1991 and in 1994 and during the last 6 months of 19
87 were reviewed to acquire information about the use of analgesic med
ication. The total proportion of cancer patients receiving analgesic m
edication on a regular basis was 39% in 1987, 63% in 1991, and 52% in
1994. The mean daily dose of strong opioids changed from 24 mg in 1987
to 58 mg in 1991, and to 43 mg in 1994. These data suggest a possible
backlash in prescribing practices during recent years. In spite Of va
rious efforts to improve the treatment of cancer pain, the medical rec
ords demonstrate a decline in prescribing of the drugs needed for this
treatment. (C) U.S. Cancer Pain Relief Committee, 1997.