Abstract A79: Empowering Latino cancer patients on the reality of cancer pain and debunking cultural myths via an interactive pain education program
Authors: Juarez Gloria , Mayorga Lina 
Published: May 2015

Introduction: 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. Thus taking a patient centered approach by involving Latino patients/families to enhance their care, expand their voice and address needs. The purpose of the Spanish interactive pain education program was to provide patients and families with tools and resources to assist them in communicating their pain to the healthcare team and debunking the cultural myths of cancer pain during and after treatment.

Methods: Needs assessments (n=132) were mailed to all new Spanish speaking patients over a 90 day period, 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. 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. Three Spanish pain classes were conducted by an Advanced Practice Nurse and a Health Educator. Five interactive components were embedded into the program to ensure patients understanding and learning. Education was provided on how to interpret and use two pain scales (Faces versus ten point scale), creating a pain diary, medication list, and how to read medication bottles and warnings, including complementary and alternative options for pain management. A Bingo game was used as a way for patients to demonstrate the skills and knowledge gained during the class, and for educators to re-address objectives or provide clarification.

Data was collected at the end of each class to evaluate effectiveness and knowledge gained. Patients received a one week follow-up phone call to see if they applied any of the skills gained during the class.

Findings: 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. Patients stated that the class provided them with tools and resources to take more of an active role in their care and managing their pain.

Conclusion: After attending class patients are able to take more of an active role in their care. Attendees are able to communicate their pain to their health care team by using descriptive words and/or using the pain scale to rate their pain or describe it. Patients have incorporated non-drug intervention strategies to help them cope with pain (music, meditation, attending educational classes).

Citation Format: Gloria Juarez, Lina Mayorga. Empowering Latino cancer patients on the reality of cancer pain and debunking cultural myths via an interactive pain education program. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Sixth AACR Conference: The Science of Cancer Health Disparities; Dec 6–9, 2013; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2014;23(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A79. doi:10.1158/1538-7755.DISP13-A79