Aging population could boost hospice services

Since it opened in March last year, China's first hospice for people with terminal cancer has provided professional care and a relatively peaceful end to life for about 100 patients.

Affiliated to Peking University Shougang Hospital in Beijing, the hospice serves as a "tribute" to the dignity of human life, even in the final stages, and the laws of nature, said Gu Jin, the founder who is also head of the hospital.

The veteran cancer surgeon urged more public awareness and support for end-stage patients, who are often subjected to unnecessary treatments and have to endure the resultant pain.