The prevalence and burden of symptoms amongst cancer patients attending palliative care in two African countries

Pain and psychological problems were four of the five most common symptoms, found in more than 3 out of 4 patients. Our sample's reported mean number of symptoms was far higher than reported in other global studies. These data can inform the delivery of appropriate clinical care. The prevalence of multidimensional symptoms underlines the importance of holistic approaches to patient assessment and management, taking account of multiple and potentially interacting symptoms and locally appropriate intervention.