What happens when cancer is not treated
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Consequences of Untreated Cancer
Increased Mortality Rates in Untreated Cancer Patients
When cancer is not treated, the mortality rates significantly increase. For instance, in a study of Danish stage I lung cancer patients, those who did not receive any treatment had a higher one-year mortality rate compared to those who underwent surgical or oncological treatments. Similarly, a study on advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients found that untreated individuals had a median overall survival (OS) of only 3.9 months, compared to 10.7 months for those who received palliative systemic therapy.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Forego Treatment
Several factors contribute to the decision not to treat cancer. These include advanced age, poor performance status, comorbidities, and patient choice. For example, older patients and those with a higher burden of comorbidities are less likely to receive curative treatments for NSCLC. Additionally, patients who never consult an oncologist or receive treatment recommendations from non-accredited cancer programs are more likely to remain untreated.
Impact on Quality of Life and Symptom Management
Untreated cancer not only shortens life expectancy but also affects the quality of life. Palliative treatments, which aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, are often not utilized by untreated patients. For instance, in advanced NSCLC, palliative systemic therapy is associated with improved quality of life, yet many patients do not receive it. Similarly, in breast cancer, patients who did not undergo surgery but received radiation therapy had better survival outcomes, indicating the importance of palliative care even when curative treatment is not an option.
Socioeconomic and Demographic Disparities
Socioeconomic status and demographic factors also play a crucial role in the likelihood of receiving cancer treatment. Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, those without insurance, and individuals with lower education levels are less likely to receive surgical or other curative treatments. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to cancer care.
Conclusion
The decision not to treat cancer has profound implications on patient survival and quality of life. Factors such as age, comorbidities, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access significantly influence this decision. Addressing these disparities and ensuring that all patients have access to appropriate cancer treatments and palliative care is crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients.
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