Análise da assistência dos pacientes oncológicos no Norte de Minas assistidos pelo ambulatório de cuidados paliativos em Montes Claros - MG

Abstract

The assistance provided to cancer patients is gaining new contours and importance within the healthcare system, particularly in relation to specialized palliative care services and their implications. These services are seen as a tool to assist both families and multidisciplinary teams throughout the process. According to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that Brazil will have 704,000 new cancer cases between 2023 and 2025. The World Health Organization states that only 14% of people in need of palliative care receive adequate attention, while 80% of these patients should be receiving palliative care to alleviate suffering in all dimensions. Palliative care aims to promote a better quality of life and treatment not only for patients but also for their families. It is provided by a multidisciplinary team throughout the illness, including diagnosis, treatment, end-of-life, and bereavement. This study aims to evaluate the assistance received by cancer patients under the care of the Palliative Care Service in Montes Claros, MG. The research is based on data collection guided by a qualitative-quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach. Primary data were collected through questionnaires and interviews with participants, as well as the use of secondary databases from the "Presente" Association for Cancer Patient Support. The results provide a set of data that identifies the type of assistance provided to these cancer patients in palliative care, as well as characterizing them based on sociodemographic profiles, family backgrounds, social classes, religious aspects, medical history, the most prevalent types of cancer, and specific issues related to the end-of-life process.