A study published in BMC Palliative Care found that palliative care is underutilized for patients with hematologic malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma and myeloblastic malignancies, despite the high disease burden associated with the cancers. Of 157 patient referrals, only 15 were for palliative care services. Factors contributing to the underuse of palliative care include misconceptions about its role and a focus on curative care.

A narrative review found early palliative care can improve quality of life for patients with acute myeloid leukemia, reducing pain, anxiety and depression compared with standard care. Early palliative care was associated with "a reduction in pain, anxiety, and depression compared to when patients are under standard care," researchers reported in the Annals of Palliative Medicine.

A study in JCO Oncology Practice found that cannabis use has increased among cancer survivors, with more than 8% likely using it, though over half may be for recreational purposes. Certain demographics, including men and Black people, showed higher usage.

A study in JAMA Network Open found that hazardous drinking among caregivers of individuals with dementia was linked to neglect and psychologically aggressive behaviors. The study, involving 453 caregivers over 21 days, showed that neglect and physical aggression were likely to occur on days when caregivers consumed alcohol.

The Chicago Cubs honored longtime fan Cesario Moya, who has advanced cancer, inviting him to Wrigley Field for what may be his last visit. Moya, who learned English watching Cubs games, received a custom jersey and celebrated with his family, who shared his story on TikTok. The morning of the game, Moya had his jersey on at 8 a.m. and already knew what he wanted for dinner that evening: "A sausage. With lots of peppers and onions. From Wrigley."

A Cochrane review of data from 67 clinical trials found little evidence to support the use of ketamine and similar drugs as pain relievers. "We want to be clear -- we're not saying ketamine is ineffective, but there's a lot of uncertainty," said lead author Michael Ferraro. Patients, however, have reported significant pain relief from ketamine, particularly those with complex regional pain syndrome.

Genicular artery embolization significantly reduced pain biomarkers in patients with knee osteoarthritis, according to a study in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology. Twenty-five participants reported improvements in pain, stiffness and function one year after the procedure.

The FDA has approved Tonmya, the first new drug for fibromyalgia in more than 15 years. Tonmya is a nonopioid, once-nightly analgesic that targets nonrestorative sleep, a major feature of fibromyalgia. Clinical trials have shown that Tonmya significantly reduces pain intensity and is generally well tolerated.

Live Interactive Webinar • September 18

Join experts Mary Lynn McPherson, PharmD PhD BCPS FAAHPM, and Alex McPherson, PharmD, for a 4-hour live, case-based webinar. Build confidence in medication management, reduce adverse events, and improve patient outcomes in hospice and palliative care. Register today!