This study aims to provide an in-depth exploration of everyday spiritual concerns of patients with advanced cancer seeking palliative care in Bangladesh, and assess their spiritual well-being (SWB).
This study was conducted among 163 patients with advanced cancer from three tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh. It was divided into two parts: a quantitative segment that assessed the SWB of the participants using the EORTC QLQ SWB32, and a qualitative segment that explored their spiritual history.
Spirituality was commonly interpreted and understood synonymously with religion by all participants, and their sense of life’s meaning centred on their families and friends. The lack of support from religious organisations led to feelings of isolation and disconnection from spiritual communities. Highest scores in SWB were observed in Relationships with God and Someone/Something Greater Scales. The lowest score was observed for Existential fulfilment. Patients expressed a desire for their palliative care team to address their spiritual concerns, regardless of their training in this area.
Spirituality is a deeply personal aspect of the human experience. Understanding and respecting these beliefs can empower palliative care professionals to deliver culturally sensitive care to their patients, irrespective of their level of training.