A Review of Mechanisms, Impact, and Advances in Management Strategies in Cancer-Related Pain

Abstract

Cancer-related pain significantly impacts patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes, presenting a persistent challenge in oncology. The complex nature of cancer pain encompasses nociceptive, visceral, and neuropathic types, each with distinct characteristics and management requirements. Pain profoundly affects cognitive function, daily activities, and emotional well-being of cancer patients, often leading to decreased quality of life and treatment compliance. Current management strategies include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Opioids, non-opioid analgesics, and adjuvant medications form the cornerstone of pharmacological interventions, while acupuncture and mind-body therapies show promise as complementary non-pharmacological methods. Recent advancements in pain assessment tools, such as digital pain diaries and wearable devices, offer improved monitoring capabilities and personalized pain management. Emerging therapies, including targeted immunotherapies and gene therapy approaches, represent new frontiers in cancer pain management. However, challenges persist in balancing effective pain relief with side effect minimization. The field is moving towards personalized, multimodal approaches that consider individual patient factors and pain mechanisms. Future research directions include developing novel analgesics, integrating artificial intelligence in pain assessment, and exploring personalized medicine strategies. Continued innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential to enhance pain management and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients.