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Equitable care for patients with cancer experiencing homelessness

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Donna WakefieldORCiD

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Abstract

People experiencing homelessness are at increased risk of cancer and have worse outcomes than the housed population. They face multiple health inequalities, including delayed cancer treatment, and are less likely to access palliative care. We present the case of a 49-year-old patient with bowel cancer who due to homelessness was lost to follow up resulting in an acute presentation with metastatic disease. Patients who are homeless often experience stigma and so through sharing this case, we not only highlight the practical issues faced but the importance of person-centred, compassionate care. We illustrate the challenges at each step from diagnosis (delayed diagnosis and unable to manage treatment as an outpatient) to death (preferred place of death and financial worries about funeral). Ultimately the trust between the multi-disciplinary team and the patient enabled delivery of holistic palliative and end-of-life care.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Wakefield D, Forster C, Christie J

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care

Year: 2025

Pages: Epub ahead of print

Online publication date: 16/05/2025

Acceptance date: 22/04/2025

ISSN (print): 2045-435X

ISSN (electronic): 2045-4368

Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group

URL: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1136/spcare-2025-005580

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/spcare-2025-005580

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