The need to improve both the conception of and management of cancer pain is well recognized. Why do things not improve? See lecture on KAP in Year 1 Foundation course lecture series for a reminder.

However, we need to work extensively and hard to improve cancer pain management. There is no reason why people should have pain in cancer. It can be effectively managed and is in many cases. However, most practitioners fail to appreciate the problems of patients with cancer from other than a diagnostic, or life-saving treatment perspective.

The problem is largely one of attitude both among health professionals and patients.