A Retrospective Analysis of Pain Burden in Hospitalized Young Adult Cancer Patients Compared with Their Older Adult Counterpart

Context: Research shows an increased symptom burden in young adult (YA) cancer patients compared with their older adult counterpart. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify differences in clinical characteristics and related outcomes between YA and older adult cancer patients admitted for cancer-related pain. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively identified 190 hospitalized patients in a single academic center with admissions for cancer-related pain. Patients were grouped into either "young adult" (18-39) or "older adult" (>40) cohorts. We compared differences in patient characteristics and pain regimens. Results: Median oral morphine equivalent per 24 hours was higher in the YA group (194 mg vs. 70 mg, p = 0.010). Younger patients received patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) more frequently (p = 0.023). The number of palliative care consults and adjuvants prescribed did not differ between groups (p > 0.05), although YAs more frequently had an inpatient pain anesthesia consult (p = 0.047). Conclusion: Findings show increased opioid requirements and PCA use in YAs being treated for malignancy compared with their older adult counterpart.