Empowering Latino cancer patients on the reality of cancer pain and debunking cultural myths via an interactive pain education program

Limited educational programs on pain management are available for Spanish speaking cancer patients. One way of addressing Latinos cancer pain needs and barriers was to conduct a needs assessment. Allowing the opportunity to take a patient centered approach by involving Latino patients/families to enhance their care, expand their voice and address needs. Needs assessments were mailed to all new Spanish speaking patients over a 90 days(n=132),57 were completed. Data identified the need to educate patients/families on cancer pain management and greater need for Spanish educational programs versus support. Thus,an interactive pain management education program was developed. The objective was to provide patients /families with tools and resources to assist them in communicating their pain to the healthcare team and debunking the cultural myths of cancer pain. Cultural factors were considered in designing and delivering the education intervention such as the significance of family or “familismo” which is considered one of the most culturally specific values for Latinos. The pilot program further identified a distorted perception of pain when undergoing cancer treatment: (1) pain was not manageable (2) part of the treatment process (3)a way that the body is getting rid of cancer. Others refused medication for fear of addiction. When asked how they dealt with pain, the majority mentioned that they preferred to receive support or comfort in their families or talk with other cancer patients in similar situations. Some patients shared that they did not communicate their pain issues to their healthcare team, for fear of treatment delay.