Pain is a significant problem in patients with cancer. Understanding the causes and types of cancer pain, thorough pain assessment and use of individualised pain management strategies can help to improve quality of care and pain relief for patients with cancer. This article provides an overview of cancer pain and the effects this may have on patients and their carers. The nurse’s role in understanding pain and interventions that may help to minimise pain are discussed. Assessment and management of cancer pain will be explored in a subsequent article.