The true prevalence of cancer pain in dogs and cats is unknown; however given the conserved biology of cancer between companion animals and people1"3, it is plausible that the incidence of cancer pain is comparable for these two species. Pain is a common ailment in human cancer patients. Based upon epidemiologic studies, the incidence of cancer pain at initial diagnosis approaches 30%, and upon disease progression up to 65-85%> of human cancer patients will experience pain at some point.4"8 Correlating with its high reported incidence, pain is the most common physical symptom in people diagnosed with terminal cancer.Cancer pain negatively affects quality of life as well as many important physiological functions, and its alleviation in patients should be an utmost clinical and humane priority. No cures exist for many patients suffering from advanced cancer; however effective analgesic strategies can diminish the discomfort and suffering associated with terminal disease progression. Estimates indicate that more than 70% of human cancer patients suffering from pain can be relieved with opioid-based regimens4' n"13, and it is justifiable to believe that equally effective cancer pain management is achievable for companion animals too. However, for cancer pain to be adequately managed, it must be recognized early and frequently reassessed by veterinary caregivers and pet owners. Despite the treatability of cancer pain, many barriers obstruct its optimal management in animals, including poor recognition associated with many cancers, difficulty in response assessment, limited knowledge regarding the usage of analgesics,and suboptimal communication between veterinary caregivers and pet owners.
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