Sociodemographic characteristics and identifed needs among patients followed in palliative care units in the Republic of Benin

Abstract

Introduction: In Benin, the experience of palliative care began in 2014 with an approach based on the model of Hospice Africa Uganda. Patients usually come to the hospital at a fairly advanced stage and require a full support, taking into account their need. This observation justifies the study whose objectives were to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of patients in palliative care and to identify their needs. Methods: This is a descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study conducted from 1st December 2014 to 31st July 2016. It concerned all patients followed in palliative care units of the CNHU HKM and Comè District Hospital and who have a complete medical record. Results: Sixty-five (65) patients were followed in the palliative care units during the study period. Among them women were 61.5% with a sex ratio of 0.6. They mean age was 52.85 years. 78% of patients did not have social security coverage. 89.2% of patients admitted to palliative care units had cancer and 63.79% were already in the metastatic stage. Pain was present in all patients admitted to palliative care units. Other problems identified were spiritual support (90.2%) and psycho-social support (73%). Conclusion: Palliative patient’s needs in Benin are dominated by pain control and psychosocial and spiritual support. A palliative care program focused on these needs will provide a better quality of life for these patients.