Breathlessness in Advanced Cancer Patients: Protocols and Recommendations

Breathlessness and dyspnea are common terms used to describe a conscious, unpleasant, intense, and frightening experience related to shortness of breath. This is a frequent and distressing symptom in cancer patients; however, it is often overlooked. It may be present in around 20–40% of cancer patients at the diagnosis of advanced disease, with symptoms prevalence reaching 70% in the last 6 weeks of life. Therefore, breathlessness is the second most common reason for starting palliative sedation.