EU-funded researchers have discovered that terminally ill patients would rather give their quality of life a boost than extend the time they have left. The study's findings were discussed at a symposium held by the PRISMA project consortium on 24 March. According to the project partners, more focus should be placed on quality of life together with potentially life-prolonging treatments.

The PRISMA project ('Reflecting the positive diversities of European priorities for research and measurement in end of life care') financed with €1.65 million under the Health Theme of the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) has as main goal to deliver an integrated programme to coordinate research priorities and practice.

Led by King's College London in the UK, the PRISMA partners conducted a telephone survey of more than 9,000 people in 7 European countries: this offered insight into how people suffering from serious illnesses (including cancer) want to live better rather than longer, as well as the various issues that impact the lives of caregivers.

The data show that of the people polled in Belgium, England, Germany and the Netherlands, "71% would choose to improve their quality of life compared to 4% who would rather extend their life"; 25% believe that both quality and extending life are important. When asked what was the biggest problem for them, patients said being in pain was the worst, followed by being a burden to others.King's College London led a group of researchers and clinicians who favour reassessing delivery of end-of-life care in Europe and raising research investment to ensure people's needs are met soundly before they pass away.

The PRISMA project wants to encourage healthcare professionals working with people with advanced diseases to change how they measure factors that are vital for patients and their families.

The majority of professionals depend on physical tests, including blood tests and scans, to diagnose and treat their patients. PRISMA believes that while such tests are central to a patient's well-being, they can potentially miss the effects of the illness on the person and their family. Evaluations based on symptoms, and social, psychological and spiritual needs should be included as well.