An exploration into the level and characteristics of pain experienced by women treated for cervical cancer at an academic hospital in Johannesburg

Abstract

The objectives of the study were to explore the level and characteristics of the pain women treated for cervical cancer at an academic hospital in Johannesburg experience before treatment, at six months after treatment and at twelve months after treatment for cervical cancer and to describe the pattern of pain over the specific period. A quantitative approach using a cross-sectional design was used. The study was conducted at the radiotherapy department of an academic hospital in Johannesburg. The population consisted of all women treated for cervical cancer and all women 18 years and older, treated with curative intent were eligible for the study. Convenience sampling was used and sample size was 168 (n = 168), 58 (n= 58) in each of the three groups. A structured interview was used using Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) as data collecting instrument. Data were analyzed using the SPSS version 22 computer programme. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine statistical significant differences between the groups. The majority of respondents (78%; n=131) experienced pain before treatment. In addition, pain persisted and although it became less intense at six months after treatment, it increased at twelve months after treatment. The pain patients’ experienced was not well managed and the level of pain and pain medication used did not match. In addition, pain medication was not taken continuously, which added to the patients’ suffering. Pain management could start with a regular and thorough assessment and the use of the WHO step ladder when prescribing pain medication. Patient education on compliance and the use of physical therapies and psychological approaches used in the management of cancer pain can also be explored.