Public Prognosis Explanations, End-of-life Care, Decision-maker Hopes, and Related Factors

Purpose: This study clarified the general public’s end-of-life decision-making expectations and related factors. Method: We analyzed secondary data of 1,000 adults surveyed through the Internet. The outcome was to determine the life expectancy at the end of life, end-of-life care, and decision-makers’ wishes. Results: Regarding the prognosis, 54% wanted to know the life expectancy in end-of-life. This preference was independently associated with being notified of cancer at a young age, trust in medical professionals, and the view of life and death that disappears. Regarding end-of-life care preferences, 11% requested active treatment, and 58% requested palliative care. This preference was independently associated with older age, women, and an emphasis on being pain-free and being yourself. Regarding decision-makers’ preferences, 77% wanted to decide for themselves, and 11% wanted to decide for their families. This preference was independently associated with the young, carefree of life and death, who did not want to be notified of cancer. Conclusion: We revealed the general public’s desire for end-of-life decision-making and associated factors. In clinical practice, it can be used for screening.