Supporters of legalising euthanasia and those who wish to develop better palliative care services can help each other, according to a study published today on bmj.com.

Advances in pain and palliative care for adults have been significant in the past decade due in part to increased recognition, support and use by caregivers and patients.

The epidemic rates of chronic disease such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease, as well as cancer and HIV/AIDS in many low-middle income countries, means they are experiencing a greater need for palliative care than most western countries.