Overview The end of life may be months, weeks, days, or hours. It is a time when many decisions about treatment and care are made for patients with cancer. It is important for families and healthcare providers to know the patient's wishes ahead of time and to talk with the patient openly about end-of-life plans.

As the body starts to slow down, a dying person may have the following physical signs: Reduced appetite Reduced thirst Increased sleeping Weight loss Mild sense of happiness and well-being ( euphoria ) due to natural changes in body chemistry