Effectiveness and aggressiveness of palliative chemotherapy in terminally ill cancer patients: a systematic review

Authors

Keywords:

Advanced Neoplasms, Palliative Chemotherapy, Palliative Care, Quality of Life

Abstract

Palliative chemotherapy is used in patients with advanced or terminal cancer to alleviate symptoms or prolong survival, although its efficacy at the end of life remains controversial and is associated with severe side effects and hospitalization. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of palliative chemotherapy in terminal cancer patients, as well as to analyze the impact of early integration of palliative care on quality of life and the reduction of unnecessary interventions. The methodology was based on a systematic review following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, conducting searches in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, and including observational studies and clinical trials in adults published between 2014 and 2024. Results revealed that between 25% and 65% of patients with advanced cancer receive chemotherapy in the last weeks of life, and that this therapy does not significantly improve quality of life, provides only a modest survival benefit, and is associated with aggressive treatment and hospitalization. Early integration of palliative care allowed for the reduction of unnecessary chemotherapy, improvement in quality of life, and promotion of a more dignified end of life, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. Reported benefits included early identification of needs, symptom reduction, and emotional and psychosocial support for patients and families, fostering informed decision-making and improving the overall end-of-life experience.

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Author Biography

Juan Ernesto Pérez-Reyes, Universidad Tecnológica Israel. Ecuador.

 

 

References

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Published

2025-12-30

How to Cite

Ilaño-Laura, G. G., Malusin-Pillana, D. H., & Pérez-Reyes, J. E. (2025). Effectiveness and aggressiveness of palliative chemotherapy in terminally ill cancer patients: a systematic review. Revista UGC, 4(1), 84–93. Retrieved from https://universidadugc.edu.mx/ojs/index.php/rugc/article/view/282

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): Innovación, inclusión y desarrollo social: Estudios aplicados en educación, derecho y gestión (Enero-marzo)

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Artículos

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Copyright (c) 2025 Guadalupe Grimanesa Ilaño-Laura, Diana Hipatia Malusin-Pillana, Juan Ernesto Pérez-Reyes

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