摘要：There are numerous difficulties encountered in the diffusion of palliative care (
PC) in developed
countries. A correct and widespread awareness of PC among the general public represents
an important factor for its enhanced diffusion and use. The aim of this study is to verify the level of
awareness of PC among Italians and their perception of the needs of patients with incurable illness.
A random sample of 1897 adult subjects, aged 18 to 74 years, representative of the Italian population,
was interviewed after stratification by gender, age (6 strata), education (3 levels), geographic
area of residency (4 areas) and town of residency (4 dimensions). 59.4% of those interviewed had
heard of PC, but only 23.5% of them believed that they had an adequate or precise idea of what
PC is; 27% of them did not know or had a mistaken idea about the nature of PC. The most accepted
perception was that PC alleviates pain and improves quality-of-life. The principal concerns
attributed to incurable patients were: fear of suffering and of death, and the principal needs were
perceived as: relief from pain and physical suffering. The primary needs of the family were identified
in: medical and nursing care at home, followed by: care provided by volunteers and psychological
support. The most appropriate care-setting for these patients was indicated as their home, possibly
with the support of professional carers. In the case of children, the main concern indicated was that
of being “separated” from family, friends, home and toys. Only 45.2% of interviewees thought that
they knew a person who had experienced PC. In conclusion, the awareness of the Italian population
of PC is scarce and often incorrect. In order to achieve a greater diffusion and better use of PC in
our country, this awareness needs to be improved by appropriate intervention.
关键词：palliative care, public awareness, italian survey.
