How Controlled Should Cancer Pain Trials Be?
Author Information
Author(s): Bell R F, Wisløff T, Eccleston C, Kalso E
Primary Institution: Regional Centre of Excellence in Palliative Care Western Norway
Hypothesis
What factors influence the methodological quality of trials on cancer pain?
Conclusion
The review highlights significant methodological challenges in conducting high-quality trials for cancer pain treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- Thirty-four randomised, double-blinded trials were identified.
- The total number of patients enrolled was 1864.
- Only one study had a placebo control.
- Twenty-nine studies had a withdrawal/dropout rate over 10%.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well trials for cancer pain are done and found many problems that make it hard to trust the results.
Methodology
A qualitative systematic review of randomised controlled trials focusing on oral opioids for cancer pain.
Potential Biases
Many studies were funded by the pharmaceutical industry, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The review is limited by the lack of placebo-controlled trials and the variability in trial designs.
Participant Demographics
Adult cancer patients, with specific exclusions for those receiving radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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