Exploring troublesome symptom and problems experienced by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this cross-sectional, non interventional 8-months observational study was to investigate the prevalence, type and risk factors of Drug related problem (DRPs) in cancer patients admitted to the Oncology Department of Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot, Punjab. Methods: A cross-sectional 8 months study was conducted from January to August 2015 at the Oncology Department of Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot, Punjab. A total of 283 cancer patients were recruited in the present investigation analysis. Results: A total of 283 cancer patients participated in this current study, out of which 135 (47.70%) were males and 148 (52.30%) were females. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were the most common DRP, nausea and vomiting was the most common ADR (155). Female subjects experienced more DRPs 56% as compare to 44% in male cancer survivors. Conclusion: This study showed that DRPs were common in our setup and the risk factors associated with DRPs were female gender, number of medications, Body mass index and extremes age (in year) ranges. Early detection and timely intervention is the key to ensure a better therapeutic outcome. Key words: Cancer Chemotherapy, Drug Related Problems (DRP), Adverse drug reactions (ADRs), Anti cancer Drugs.