Journal of Clinical Oncology, Vol 10, 1976-1982, Copyright © 1992 by American Society of Clinical Oncology
Cancer Pain Assessment and Treatment Curriculum Guidelines. The Ad Hoc Committee on Cancer Pain of the American Society of Clinical Oncology
PURPOSE: More than 70% of patients with cancer develop significant pain at
some time during the course of their illness. Despite the general consensus
that most cancer pain can be treated effectively, many patients receive
inadequate treatment of their pain. One significant contributing factor is
the failure of health care professionals to receive formal training in this
important aspect of oncology. The Cancer Pain Assessment and Treatment
Curriculum Guidelines reflect the American Society of Clinical Oncology's
commitment to providing optimal pain relief to patients with cancer. These
guidelines represent an effort to promote formal instruction on the
assessment and treatment of cancer pain in training programs and continuing
education courses. DESIGN AND RESULTS: The curriculum is broad in scope and
applicable to patients of all ages. The guidelines emphasize the need for
(1) routine pain assessment, (2) proficiency in prescribing opioids,
nonopioid analgesics, and adjuvant medications, and (3) an understanding of
the potential benefits of antineoplastic, anesthetic, neurosurgical, and
behavioral approaches, which often require a coordinated multidisciplinary
approach. CONCLUSION: This curriculum should prove a valuable guide to
those who wish further education on the optimal treatment of cancer pain.
