COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ONCOLOGICAL AND NON-ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS IN PALLIATIVE CARE AT A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Abstract

Introduction: Palliative care is essential for improving the quality of life of patients with severe illnesses, providing symptom relief and psychosocial support. Although traditionally associated with cancer, the demand for palliative care for non-oncological conditions is increasing, highlighting the need for comparisons between these groups. Objective: To compare the clinical trajectories of oncological and non-oncological patients in palliative care at a university hospital, evaluating differences in clinical outcomes and resource use. Method: This is an observational, retrospective, and quantitative study that analyzed 311 medical records of patients treated between January and July 2024. Variables analyzed included age, comorbidities, use of invasive measures, length of hospitalization, and clinical outcomes. Results: Of the 311 patients, 21.5% were oncological and 78.5% were non-oncological. Non-oncological patients had a longer hospital stay (average of 28.11 days) and lower functional performance scores (PPS: 18.61) compared to oncological patients (PPS: 31.12). Oncological patients started palliative care earlier and showed better symptom management. Mortality was higher among non-oncological patients, with statistically significant differences in several clinical indicators.