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Badger T, Segrin C, Crane TE, Chalasani P, Arslan W, Hadeed M, Given CW, Sikorskii A. A sequential multiple assignment randomized trial of symptom management for cancer survivors during treatment and their informal caregivers. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:523. [PMID: 39023547 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08734-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Many cancer survivors and their informal caregivers experience multiple symptoms during the survivor's treatment. OBJECTIVE Test relative effectiveness and optimal sequencing of two evidence-based interventions for symptom management. METHODS In this sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART), survivors of solid tumors with elevated depression or anxiety and their caregivers as dyads were initially randomized after baseline assessment in a 3:1 ratio to the Symptom Management and Survivorship Handbook (SMSH, N = 277 dyads) intervention or SMSH plus 8 weeks of telephone interpersonal counseling (TIPC, N = 97 dyads). After 4 weeks, survivors who were not responding (no improvement or worsening score on depression and/or anxiety item) to SMSH only and their caregivers were re-randomized to continue with SMSH alone (N = 44 dyads) to give it more time or to SMSH + TIPC (N = 44 dyads). Mixed effects and generalized linear models compared severity of depression, anxiety, and a summed index of 16 other symptoms over weeks 1-13 and week 17 between randomized groups and among three dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs). Dyads received SMSH only for 12 weeks (DTR1); SMSH for 12 weeks with 8 weeks of TIPC added from week 1 (DTR2); and SMSH for 4 weeks followed by the combined SMSH + TIPC for 8 weeks if no response at 4 weeks (DTR3). RESULTS Survivors randomized initially to SMSH alone had significantly lower anxiety over weeks 1-13 compared to those randomized to the combined SMSH + TIPC. In comparing DTRs, survivor's anxiety was significantly lower at week 13 for DTR1 compared to DTR2 with no other main effects for survivors or caregivers. Exploratory moderation analyses indicated a potential benefit of adding TIPC for caregivers of non-responders with elevated baseline symptoms. CONCLUSION SMSH + TIPC did not result in better symptom outcomes at week 17 than SMSH alone. Lower intensity SMSH may improve depression and anxiety symptoms for most survivors and their caregivers. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrails.gov ID number, NCT03743415; approved and posted on 11/16/2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Badger
- College of Nursing, University of Arizona, 1305 N. Martin Avenue, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
| | - Chris Segrin
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Tracy E Crane
- Division of Medical Oncology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Pavani Chalasani
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Waqas Arslan
- College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Mary Hadeed
- College of Nursing, University of Arizona, 1305 N. Martin Avenue, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Charles W Given
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Alla Sikorskii
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Lu SH, Yiin JJ, Lin YP, Lee KC. Effect of a Web-Based Integrative Support Intervention to Improve Family Caregiver Positive Caregiving Experience and Quality of Life: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Cancer Nurs 2024:00002820-990000000-00270. [PMID: 39016271 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer caregivers experience significant stress due to their multifaceted role. Current support methods are limited by unidimensional assessments. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate a Web-based support system aimed at reducing caregiver stress and anxiety, and improving resilience, vigilance, and quality of life, using both subjective and objective measures. METHODS A randomized controlled trial with a single-center, 2-arm parallel design and longitudinal assessment was conducted in Taiwan. Caregivers of patients recently diagnosed with cancer were randomly allocated to either a standard care group or an intervention group that received enhanced nurse-led support. Metrics including psychological resilience, caregiver burden, anxiety, quality of life, stress levels, and vigilance were systematically evaluated on a monthly basis over a period of 5 months, starting from the initial baseline measurement. RESULTS Following the intervention, participants in the intervention group exhibited statistically significant reductions in caregiver burden and anxiety, alongside a notable improvement in resilience. Objective evaluations revealed a significant reduction in stress levels within this group. However, there were no discernible differences in vigilance and quality of life metrics between the intervention and control groups. CONCLUSION The Web-based program effectively reduced caregiver stress and burden, as indicated by multiple metrics. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This accessible and efficient Web-based support is beneficial for cancer caregivers facing diverse challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Hua Lu
- Author Affiliations: School of Nursing, China Medical University (Drs Lu, Lin, and Lee); and Department of Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute, Taichung Veterans General Hospital (Dr Yiin), Taichung, Taiwan
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Siminoff LA, Wilson-Genderson M, Chwistek M, Thomson M. The cancer caregiving burden trajectory over time: varying experiences of perceived versus objectively measured burden. Oncologist 2024; 29:629-637. [PMID: 38652165 PMCID: PMC11224987 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyae069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to comprehensively understand the burden experienced by caregivers (CGs) providing home-based, end-of-life care to patients with cancer. We examined the relationship between objective and subjective burden including whether and how burden changes over time. METHODS A case series of terminal cancer patient-caregiver dyads (n = 223) were recruited from oncology clinics and followed for 12 months or until patient death. Data were collected every other week and in-person from CGs in their homes using quantitative surveys, diaries, and monthly structured observations. RESULTS Bivariate correlations revealed a significant association between subjective burden and activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), high-intensity tasks, and time spent on ADLs; these correlations varied over time. Models examining the slope of subjective burden revealed little systematic change; spouse caregiver and patient functional limitations were positively, and Black caregiver was negatively associated with subjective burden. Generally, the slopes for measures of objective burden were significant and positive. Models showed subjective burden was positively associated with most measures of objective burden both within caregiver (concurrent measures were positively associated) and between CGs (those with higher subjective also had higher objective). CONCLUSIONS Cancer caregiving is dynamic; CGs must adjust to the progression of the patient's disease. We found an association between subjective and objective burden both within and between CGs. Black CGs were more likely to report lower subjective burden compared to their White counterparts. More detailed investigation of the sociocultural components that affect caregiver experience of burden is needed to better understand how and where to best intervene with targeted supportive care services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Siminoff
- College of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Maureen Wilson-Genderson
- College of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marcin Chwistek
- Fox Chase Cancer Center/Temple University Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Maria Thomson
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, School of Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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Wang Y, Seplaki CL, Norton SA, Williams AM, Kadambi S, Loh KP. Communication between Caregivers of Adults with Cancer and Healthcare Professionals: a Review of Communication Experiences, Associated Factors, Outcomes, and Interventions. Curr Oncol Rep 2024; 26:773-783. [PMID: 38777979 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-024-01550-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Family/unpaid caregivers play an important role in cancer care. This review aims to summarize caregiver communication experiences with healthcare professionals (HCPs). RECENT FINDINGS The Caregiver-Centered Communication model defines five core functions that HCPs should achieve when interacting with caregivers, including fostering relationships, exchanging information, recognizing and responding to caregiver emotions, aiding in decision making, and assisting in patient care management. The literature shows that caregivers have both positive and negative communication experiences with HCPs with respect to these five core functions. Factors at the caregiver (e.g., demographic characteristics, information sources, caregiving duration, health status), patient (e.g., demographic and clinical characteristics), and HCP levels (e.g., time constraints in clinical settings, communication skills) are associated with caregiver-HCP communication quality. Studies further show that these communication experiences may affect caregiver outcomes, including quality of life, mental health, resilience, and satisfaction with cancer care. Moreover, poor quality caregiver-HCP communication is associated with patient readmission to the hospital and unmet care needs. Interventions for caregivers or patient-caregiver dyads have been shown to enhance caregiver confidence and increase their engagement in communication with HCPs. Interventions for HCPs have shown efficacy in improving their communication skills, particularly in involving caregivers in decision-making discussions. Given time constraints during medical visits, we suggest conducting a caregiver assessment by navigators prior to visits to understand their communication needs. Additionally, reimbursing HCPs for time spent communicating with caregivers during visits could be beneficial. More research is needed to better understand how to enhance caregiver-HCP communication quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Christopher L Seplaki
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sally A Norton
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - AnnaLynn M Williams
- Division of Supportive Care in Cancer, Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sindhuja Kadambi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 704, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 704, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
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White Makinde K, Pitzer KA, Benson JJ, Mitchell M, Oliver DP, Demiris G, Washington KT. Does Family Functioning Matter? Understanding the Relationship Between Family Interactions and Depressive Symptoms for Caregivers of Cancer Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241263016. [PMID: 38881044 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241263016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregivers of cancer patients are at increased risk of depression and other health challenges. There is limited understanding of the role of the caregiver's own family members in promoting or discouraging mental wellbeing. Family functioning conceptualizes how family members interact to promote a positive family environment and has the potential to impact caregiver mental health. The purpose of this study is to assess the association between family interactions and depressive symptoms among family caregivers of cancer patients. METHODS Secondary analysis of baseline data from an NIH-funded randomized control trial of family caregivers of cancer patients recruited from academic palliative care clinics at three sites (2 Midwest, 1 East). We tested for an association between caregiver responses to the Family Quality of Life in Dementia-Family Interactions Subscale and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Depression Short Form 8A using a block-wise approach to linear modeling. RESULTS A total of 246 caregivers were included in analysis; caregivers were mostly White (82%), not Hispanic or Latina/o (96%), and female (65%), with an average age of 55 years. Overall, participants had high family interactions (mean 57.7, sd 11.7) and an average depressive symptom burden (t-score 52.4, SD 8.57). Family interactions was significantly negatively associated with depressive symptoms (b = -.163, se = .057) when accounting for relevant covariates. CONCLUSION Family caregivers with more positive family interactions are likely to have fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting family functioning may play a key role in bolstering family caregiver mental health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyle A Pitzer
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jacquelyn J Benson
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Maysara Mitchell
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Debra Parker Oliver
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
- Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - George Demiris
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Karla T Washington
- Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
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Ochoa CY, Cho J, Miller KA, Baezconde-Garbanati L, Chan RY, Farias AJ, Milam JE. Hispanic/Latinos and non-Hispanic whites' childhood cancer survivors and parents: a dyadic analysis of coping resources and mental health. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:996-1005. [PMID: 36853581 PMCID: PMC10460832 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01339-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE While limited, dyadic research demonstrates the interdependent relationship between the health and adjustment after treatment between cancer survivors and caregivers. We examined interrelationships between coping resources and mental health among childhood cancer survivors (CCS)-parent dyads. METHODS One hundred sixty CCS-parent dyads from the Project Forward pilot study completed validated questions assessing social support, religiosity, spirituality, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress. Bidirectional associations were identified with path analysis utilizing the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM). We used a multigroup approach to test for the moderating effects by Hispanic ethnicity on these relationships. RESULTS Mean age of CCS was 20 years old, 51% female, 30% diagnosed with leukemia, and mean of 7 years from diagnosis. The mean age of parents was 49 years old and 89% were mothers. For both CCS and parents, perceived social support was inversely associated with their depressive symptoms and perceived stress (e.g., actor effects). Parents' social support was not significantly associated with CCS's depressive symptoms and stress. However, higher perceived social support by the CCS was inversely associated with parents' depressive symptoms (β = - 0.202, p < 0.01) and perceived stress (β = - 0.164, p < 0.05) (e.g., partner effects). Additional actor effects were observed between spirituality, religiosity, and depressive systems when we explored the moderating effects of Hispanic ethnicity. CONCLUSION Partner effects of social support among CCS-parent dyads may influence psychological distress. IMPLICATION FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Our findings on parent-child associations between social support and psychosocial well-being imply that survivorship care can be enhanced when the social support needs of both survivors and their parents are addressed together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Y Ochoa
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, N. Soto Street, 3rdFloor, Room 312-30, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA.
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Junhan Cho
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, N. Soto Street, 3rdFloor, Room 312-30, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Kimberly A Miller
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, N. Soto Street, 3rdFloor, Room 312-30, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Lourdes Baezconde-Garbanati
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, N. Soto Street, 3rdFloor, Room 312-30, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Randall Y Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Albert J Farias
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, N. Soto Street, 3rdFloor, Room 312-30, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Joel E Milam
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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La IS, Johantgen M, Storr CL, Zhu S, Cagle JG, Ross A. Spirituality moderates the relationship between cancer caregiver burden and depression. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:470-481. [PMID: 38131143 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer has become a chronic disease that requires a considerable amount of informal caregiving, often quite burdensome to family caregivers. However, the influence of spirituality on the caregivers' burden and mental health outcomes has been understudied. This study was to examine how caregiver burden, spirituality, and depression change during cancer treatment and investigate the moderating role of spirituality in the relationship between caregiver burden and depression for a sample of caregivers of persons with cancer. METHODS This secondary analysis used a longitudinal design employing 3 waves of data collection (at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months). Family caregivers completed the Caregiver Reaction Assessment, Spiritual Perspective Scale, and the PROMIS® depression measure. Linear mixed model analyses were used, controlling for pertinent covariates. RESULTS Spirituality, total caregiver burden, and depression remained stable over 6 months. More than 30% of the caregivers had mild to severe depressive symptoms at 3 time points. There was evidence of overall burden influencing depression. Of note was a protective effect of caregivers' spirituality on the relationship between depression and caregiver burden over time (b = -1.35, p = .015). The lower the spirituality, the stronger the relationship between depression and burden, especially regarding subscales of schedule burden, financial burden, and lack of family support. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Spirituality was a significant resource for coping with caregiving challenges. This study suggests that comprehensive screening and spiritual care for cancer caregivers may improve their cancer caregiving experience and possibly influence the care recipients' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Seo La
- College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Meg Johantgen
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carla L Storr
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shijun Zhu
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John G Cagle
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alyson Ross
- Wisdom of the Whole Coaching Academy, Asheville, NC, USA
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Cui P, Cheng C, An H, Chen X, Chen C, Hu H. A chain mediation model reveals the association between family sense of coherence and quality of life in caregivers of advanced cancer patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10701. [PMID: 38730003 PMCID: PMC11087510 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61344-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Caregivers of advanced cancer patients face challenges impacting their quality of life (QoL). While evidence suggests that family sense of coherence (FSOC) can enhance individual psychological well-being and reduce distress symptoms, the precise mechanism through which FSOC improves caregivers' QoL remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the relationships among FSOC, psychological resilience, psychological distress, and QoL in primary caregivers of advanced cancer patients. A cross-sectional observational study was undertaken from June 2020 to March 2021 across five tertiary hospitals in China. Instruments included a general characteristic questionnaire, the Family Sense of Coherence Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-4, the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the 8-item SF-8 health survey. Pearson's correlation and chain mediation analyses were performed using IBM SPSS (version 21) and PROCESS macro (version 3.4). Out of 290 valid questionnaires, results demonstrated that FSOC directly and positively influences caregivers' QoL. Psychological distress partially mediated the FSOC-QoL association, with paths "FSOC-psychological distress-QoL" and "FSOC-psychological resilience-psychological distress-QoL" contributing 43.08% and 6.72% of the total effect, respectively. Furthermore, this study distinguished physical and mental aspects of QoL, confirming both conform to the chain mediation model. FSOC impacts caregivers' QoL directly and indirectly through the mediation of psychological distress and the chain mediation effect of "psychological resilience-psychological distress". These insights enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between FSOC and QoL, underscoring the potential benefits of bolstering FSOC to strengthen caregiver resilience, alleviate distress, and ultimately elevate their QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Cui
- Department of Nursing, Henan Provincial Key Medicine Laboratory of Nursing, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, No. 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Nursing, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chunyan Cheng
- Hematology Department, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huiying An
- Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Chen
- Medical Oncology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changying Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 Jianshe Dong Road, Zhengzhou, China.
- Institute for Hospital Management of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Hengyu Hu
- Department of Nursing, Henan Provincial Key Medicine Laboratory of Nursing, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, No. 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, China.
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Southern C, Tutton E, Dainty KN, Seers K, Pearson NA, Couper K, Ellard DR, Perkins GD, Haywood KL. The experiences of cardiac arrest survivors and their key supporters following cardiac arrest: A systematic review and meta-ethnography. Resuscitation 2024; 198:110188. [PMID: 38548009 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2024.110188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
AIM To review qualitative studies on the experience of sudden cardiac arrest survival from the perspective of both survivors and their key supporters, including family/close friends. METHODS A seven-step meta-ethnography and synthesis of qualitative evidence was undertaken, informed by the Meta-Ethnography Reporting Guidelines (eMERGe). Four major databases were searched (Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO; January 1995-January 2022, updated July 2023) for qualitative studies exploring survivors' and/or key supporters' experiences of cardiac arrest survival. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation - Confidence in Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) were applied to evaluate the overall confidence in research findings. Constructs were identified from each paper, informing theme and sub-theme development. RESULTS From 15,917 unique titles/abstracts and 196 full-text articles, 32 met the inclusion criteria. Three themes captured the survivors' experiences: 1) Making sense of my cardiac arrest; 2) Learning to trust my body and mind; and 3) Re-evaluating my life. A further three themes reflected key supporters' experiences: 1) Emotional turmoil; 2) Becoming a carer: same person but different me; and 3) Engaging with a new and unknown world. However, limited data and some methodological weaknesses in included studies reduced confidence in several themes. The findings were conceived within the overarching concept of 'negotiating a new normal'. CONCLUSIONS The enduring psychosocial and physical sequelae of cardiac arrest survival substantially impacts the lives of survivors and their key supporters, requiring negotiation of their 'new normality'. The need for sense-making, physical and psychological recovery, and the new roles for key supporters should be strong considerations in the development of future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Southern
- Warwick Research in Nursing, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England
| | - Elizabeth Tutton
- Warwick Research in Nursing, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England; Kadoorie, Oxford Trauma Research and Emergency Care, NDORMS, Oxford University, UK; Major Trauma Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford UK
| | - Katie N Dainty
- Office of Research & Innovation, North York General Hospital, Toronto Ontario Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Kate Seers
- Warwick Research in Nursing, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England
| | - Nathan A Pearson
- Warwick Research in Nursing, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England
| | - Keith Couper
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England; Critical Care Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - David R Ellard
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England; University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Gavin D Perkins
- Critical Care Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kirstie L Haywood
- Warwick Research in Nursing, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, England.
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Nasimi Shad A, Akhlaghipour I, Alshakarchi HI, Saburi E, Moghbeli M. Role of microRNA-363 during tumor progression and invasion. J Physiol Biochem 2024:10.1007/s13105-024-01022-1. [PMID: 38691273 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-024-01022-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Recent progresses in diagnostic and therapeutic methods have significantly improved prognosis in cancer patients. However, cancer is still considered as one of the main causes of human deaths in the world. Late diagnosis in advanced tumor stages can reduce the effectiveness of treatment methods and increase mortality rate of cancer patients. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms of tumor progression can help to introduce the early diagnostic markers in these patients. MicroRNA (miRNAs) has an important role in regulation of pathophysiological cellular processes. Due to their high stability in body fluids, they are always used as the non-invasive markers in cancer patients. Since, miR-363 deregulation has been reported in a wide range of cancers, we discussed the role of miR-363 during tumor progression and metastasis. It has been reported that miR-363 has mainly a tumor suppressor function through the regulation of transcription factors, apoptosis, cell cycle, and structural proteins. MiR-363 also affected the tumor progression via regulation of various signaling pathways such as WNT, MAPK, TGF-β, NOTCH, and PI3K/AKT. Therefore, miR-363 can be introduced as a probable therapeutic target as well as a non-invasive diagnostic marker in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Nasimi Shad
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Akhlaghipour
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hawraa Ibrahim Alshakarchi
- Al-Zahra Center for Medical and Pharmaceutical Research Sciences (ZCMRS), Al-Zahraa University for Women, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Ehsan Saburi
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Sawyer CS, Taylor S, Carter L, Stanworth M, Davies M, Thistlethwaite F, Taylor J, Eastwood C, Yorke J. Development and validation of a patient reported experience measure for experimental cancer medicines (PREM-ECM) and their carers (PREM-ECM-Carer). BMC Cancer 2024; 24:500. [PMID: 38641809 PMCID: PMC11031988 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11963-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our aim was to develop a validated Patient Reported Experience Measure (PREM) to capture patient and carer experience during participation in experimental cancer medicine trials (ECM): called PREM-ECM. METHODS Mixed method design, consisting of four stages. Questionnaire items were produced for both patients and carers using interviews, focus groups, and cognitive interviews with patients and carers separately. For both patient and carer PREMs, a cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted to identify final items for inclusion using hierarchical item reduction and Rasch analysis. Questionnaire validity and reliability were assessed, including administration feasibility. RESULTS Initial interview participants suggested the need for three PREMs, two specific to patients: (i) a 'prior' questionnaire that captured experiences of trial introduction, screening, consenting, and early trial experience (< 6 weeks post consent); and (ii) 'on-trial' that captured experiences of ongoing consent and trial participation; and (iii) a PREM specific for carers. The draft 25-item 'prior' questionnaire was completed by 162 patients and 162 patients completed the draft 35-item 'on-trial' questionnaire. Hierarchical and Rasch analysis produced a 14-item 'prior' list and a 15-item list for 'on-trial'. Both patient PREM's demonstrated a good fit to the Rasch model following Bonferroni correction (X2p = 0.008). The carer 34-draft item questionnaire was completed by 102 participants. Hierarchical and Rasch analysis produced a 13-item list for PREM-ECM-Carer, with good fit to the Rasch model ( X2p = 0.62). The pilot testing demonstrated the feasibility of all the PREMs in capturing patient and caregiver experiences in routine clinical settings. CONCLUSIONS The three PREM-ECM questionnaires will be the first validated experience measures for ECM trial patients and their carers. These questionnaires may be used to assess patients' and their carers' experiences of ECM and enable robust comparisons across cancer trial units highlighting areas for service improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea S Sawyer
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Christie Patient Centred Research (CPCR), The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Sally Taylor
- Christie Patient Centred Research (CPCR), The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Nursing Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Louise Carter
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Melissa Stanworth
- Christie Patient Centred Research (CPCR), The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Michelle Davies
- NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- The Experimental Cancer Medicine Team, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Fiona Thistlethwaite
- Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- The Experimental Cancer Medicine Team, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Jo Taylor
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Charlotte Eastwood
- Christie Patient Centred Research (CPCR), The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Janelle Yorke
- Christie Patient Centred Research (CPCR), The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
- Division of Nursing Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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12
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Le Roux E, Meunier-Beillard N, Simonel C, Omorou A, Lejeune C. Spouses of patients treated for colon cancer: identification of key caregiver skills using the Delphi method. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:263. [PMID: 38564042 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08456-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spouses are often the front-line caregivers for colon cancer patients. Providing this support requires a particular set of coping skills. Our objective was to identify key skills that healthcare and medico-social sector professionals could assess in routine practice that would allow them to propose appropriate support to spouses who are accompanying colon cancer patients in their care pathway. METHODS An online two-round Delphi study was conducted among French colon cancer patients, spouses and professionals. The content of the Delphi study was developed from a previously published qualitative study. RESULTS In the first round of the study, 63% of the participants were professionals (n = 40), 19% spouses (n = 12) and 17% patients (n = 11). In the second round, they were respectively 55% (n = 22), 22% (n = 9) and 22% (n = 9). Twenty-seven of the 75 proposed skills were consensually identified as key skills. Nine were related to emotional and psychological well-being, six to social relations, four to organisation, five to health and three to domestic domains. The three most consensual skills (≥ 90% agreement) for spouses were (1) helping the tired patient in everyday life, (2) stimulating the patient to prevent him/her from giving up and (3) limiting one's amount of personal time to care for the patient. CONCLUSION The study identified the key skills needed by spouses of patients being treated for colon cancer. Better awareness of these skills among professionals would enable them to offer tailored support to help patients and spouses maintain their physical and emotional well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enora Le Roux
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, ECEVE, F-75010, Paris, France
- AP-HP Nord-Université de Paris, Hôpital Universitaire Robert Debré, Unité d'épidémiologie clinique, Inserm, CIC 1426, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Meunier-Beillard
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Inserm, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Délégation à la Recherche Clinique et à l'Innovation, USMR, Dijon, France
| | - Caroline Simonel
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Inserm, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France
| | - Abdou Omorou
- Université de Lorraine, CHRU Nancy, Inserm CIC 1433 Clinical Epidemiology, Nancy, France
- 1319 UMR INSPIIRE, Inserm, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
- The French National Platform Quality of Life and Cancer, Nancy, France
| | - Catherine Lejeune
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Inserm, Université de Bourgogne, CIC 1432, Module Épidémiologie Clinique, Dijon, France.
- Inserm, Université Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, UMR 1231, EPICAD, Dijon, France.
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13
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Yıldız M, Terzioğlu C, Ayhan F. Psychosocial interventions aimed at family members caring for patients with cancer in the palliative period: A systematic review. Int J Nurs Knowl 2024; 35:136-151. [PMID: 36999895 DOI: 10.1111/2047-3095.12423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this systematic review is to examine evidence-based psychosocial intervention research aimed at family members caring for patients with cancer in the palliative period. METHOD In this systematic review, randomized controlled psychosocial intervention studies for the family member caring for patients with cancer published between January 1, 2016 and July 30, 2021 were reviewed. PubMed (including MEDLINE), Cochrane, APA PsycNet, ProQuest, Science Direct, TR Index, and Wiley Online Library databases were scanned. Eight publications were identified following a database review for English language articles published from 2016 to 2021. Sample, methods, content, and outcomes of included interventions are summarized. RESULTS Only eight of the 4652 articles examined met the inclusion criteria. Psychosocial interventions such as mindfulness exercises, stress management, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral intervention, and meaning-centered psychotherapy for cancer caregivers were applied for relatives caring for patients with cancer in the palliative period. CONCLUSION Psychosocial interventions applied to family members caring for patients with cancer during the palliative period lead to improvements in depressive symptoms, stress levels, the caregiver burden, quality of life, self-efficacy, coping skills, and awareness levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manolya Yıldız
- Gulhane Institute of Health Science, University of Health science, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Candan Terzioğlu
- Department of Nursing, Division of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Alanya, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ayhan
- Department of Nursing, Division of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Science, Batman University, Batman, Turkey
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14
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Nielsen IH, Tolver A, Piil K, Kjeldsen L, Grønbæk K, Jarden M. Family caregiver quality of life and symptom burden in patients with hematological cancer: A Danish nationwide cross-sectional study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 69:102538. [PMID: 38457934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the quality of life (QoL) and the impact of caregiving in family caregivers of hematological cancer patients and its association with patient symptom burden. METHODS A cross-sectional study including Danish patients (n = 375) and caregivers (n = 140). Caregivers completed scales for anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, health related QoL using the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey, and caregiver roles using the Caregiver Roles and Responsibilities Scale. Patients reported symptoms using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory. Analysis of covariance was used to examine associations between patient symptom burden and caregivers' QoL outcomes. RESULTS The results show that caregivers experience sleep difficulties, moderate anxiety, and reduced QoL. Patient symptom burden was significantly associated with caregiver anxiety (p = 0.009), and mental well-being (p = 0.002), while patient treatment status was a significant factor associated with caregiver anxiety (p = 0.016), depression (p = 0.009), emotional well-being (p = 0.002), and sleep (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION Caregivers of patients with hematological cancers undergoing active treatment face a high symptom burden, which significantly impacts their QoL, including sleep, psychological well-being, and emotional health. Patients reported a high symptom burden, and patient symptom burden was significantly associated with caregiver QoL. Adequate patient and caregiver support is needed to promote their well-being and mitigate adverse health effects in caregivers, and this should be acknowledged in the context of caring for patients with hematological cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iben Husted Nielsen
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anders Tolver
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Data Science Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karin Piil
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Lars Kjeldsen
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Grønbæk
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mary Jarden
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Hastert TA, Kyko JM, Ruterbusch JJ, Robinson JRM, Kamen CS, Beebe-Dimmer JL, Nair M, Thompson HS, Schwartz AG. Caregiver costs and financial burden in caregivers of African American cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:565-574. [PMID: 36274101 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01271-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE People with cancer commonly rely on loved ones as informal caregivers during and after treatment. Costs related to caregiving and their association with caregiver financial burden are not well understood. METHODS Results include data from 964 caregivers of African American cancer survivors in the Detroit Research on Cancer Survivors (ROCS) cohort. Caregiving costs include those related to medications, logistics (e.g., transportation), and medical bills. Financial burden measures included caregiver financial resources, strain, and difficulty paying caregiving costs. Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of associations between costs and high financial burden were calculated using modified Poisson models controlling for caregiver characteristics. RESULTS Caregivers included spouses (36%), non-married partners (8%), family members (48%), and friends (9%). Nearly two-thirds (64%) of caregivers reported costs related to caregiving. Logistical costs were the most common (58%), followed by medication costs (35%) and medical bills (17%). High financial hardship was reported by 38% of caregivers. Prevalence of high financial hardship was 52% (95% CI: 24%, 86%) higher among caregivers who reported any versus no caregiver costs. Associations between caregiver costs and high financial burden were evident for costs related to medications (PR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.58), logistics (PR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.92), and medical bills (PR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.28, 1.92). CONCLUSIONS Most caregivers experienced costs related to caregiving, and these costs were associated with higher prevalence of high caregiver financial burden. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Informal caregivers experience financial hardship related to cancer along with cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa A Hastert
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Jaclyn M Kyko
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Julie J Ruterbusch
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Jamaica R M Robinson
- Center for Research On End-of-Life Care, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charles S Kamen
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer L Beebe-Dimmer
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Mrudula Nair
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hayley S Thompson
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Ann G Schwartz
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
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16
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Webb K, Sharpe L, Russell H, Shaw J. Development and validation of the CARE-FCR: A caregiver-specific measure of fear of cancer recurrence and progression. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e6341. [PMID: 38593275 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fear of cancer recurring or progressing (FCR) is a concern reported by people living with cancer and caregivers alike. Whilst advances in survivor FCR have been made, less is known about caregiver FCR. As a result, measurement of caregiver FCR has relied on instruments developed for survivor populations. Findings from qualitative research indicate caregiver experiences of FCR differ. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a caregiver specific measure of FCR (CARE-FCR). METHODS Four-hundred and thirty-eight caregivers (56% female, Mage = 50.53 years, SD = 17.38) completed the online survey including demographic questions, information about care provided, the person they care for, as well as the CARE-FCR. Convergent validity was assessed using pre-existing measures of fear of recurrence and progression, depression, anxiety, death anxiety and meta-cognitions. The extraversion dimension of the Big Five Personality Trait questionnaire was used to assess divergent validity. The survey was completed 2 weeks later to assess test-retest reliability. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to determine factor structure, followed by confirmatory factor analysis. RESULTS EFA indicated a 3-factor structure: progression, recurrence, and communication. Evidence for convergent, divergent, and test-retest reliability was adequate. Internal consistency for the CARE-FCR was strong, overall Cronbach's α = 0.96 (progression = 0.94, recurrence = 0.92 and communication = 0.78). CONCLUSIONS We present a theoretically informed and psychometrically robust measure of caregiver FCR. The CARE-FCR facilitates quantification of caregiver FCR, capturing unique aspects specific to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra Webb
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Group (PoCoG), School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louise Sharpe
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hayley Russell
- Ovarian Cancer Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Shaw
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Group (PoCoG), School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Cloyes KG, Mansfield KJ, Wawrzynski SE, Vega M, Kent-Marvick J, Guo JW. Cancer Survivors' and Care Partners' Audio Diaries on Stress and Social Support Resources During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151623. [PMID: 38538507 PMCID: PMC11045306 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe cancer survivors' and care partners' perceived stress and social support during the COVID-19 pandemic and assess the feasibility of audio diaries for assessing role-related needs and resources. METHODS Participants (N = 51; n = 28 survivors, n = 23 care partners) recorded three monthly audio diaries reporting stress and support experiences. Diaries were transcribed and content-analyzed using a hybrid approach. Stress-related content was inductively coded, and social support content was deductively coded by type (instrumental, information, emotional, companionship, appraisal; κ = 0.75) then inductively coded. Descriptive statistics summarized sociodemographic data and compared coding frequencies by role. We developed narrative summaries of stress and support categories and selected quotes for contextual detail. RESULTS Cancer-related stressors were most prevalent (28.8%), followed by work (26.8%), family (23.1%), social isolation (13.4%), and finances (8.0%). While no significant difference in reporting frequency was observed between roles, cancer-related stress was more prevalent for survivors while work-related stress was mentioned more by care partners. Emotional support was the most prevalent support type (32.1%), followed by companionship (25.3%), appraisal (17.9%), instrumental (16.67%), and informational support (8%). Survivors reported more appraisal support than care partners (χ2 = 6.48, df = 1, P = .011) and more support for self-care, while care partners expressed more other-oriented concerns and focused more on managing responsibilities and interactions outside the household. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic complicated and intensified role-based stressors already present in the survivorship context. Our findings highlight the importance of informal social support networks, particularly when access to formal services is limited, and suggest that audio diaries can be an effective tool for assessing support needs and resources. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Nurses and healthcare providers should tailor social support assessments to address the distinct support needs and individual resources of cancer survivors and their care partners. This is especially critical in contexts that limit access to care and formal services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin G Cloyes
- School of Nursing, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR.
| | - Kelly J Mansfield
- College of Nursing, University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Sarah E Wawrzynski
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Science, Nemours Children's Health, Wilmington, DE
| | - Marilisa Vega
- College of Nursing, University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Jia-Wen Guo
- College of Nursing, University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT
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18
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King JJ, Badger TA, Segrin C, Thomson CA. Loneliness, Spirituality, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Hispanic English-Speaking Cancer Caregivers: A Qualitative Approach. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024; 63:1433-1456. [PMID: 37665415 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01880-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Hispanic caregivers experiencing higher caregiving burden than their non-Hispanic cohorts, due in part to contextual factors, such as barriers to accessing health care, challenging employment environments, low education and income, immigration issues, and minority stress. Spirituality may serve as a coping strategy for Hispanic caregivers that influences health-related quality of life (HRQoL), possibly by modifying loneliness associated with caregiving. We explored these concepts using semi-structured interviews (N = 10 Hispanic caregivers). Participants shared perceptions of loneliness, spirituality, and how these factors related to HRQoL. Five themes emerged: caregiver experience, coping strategies, loneliness, religion and spirituality to gain strength. Findings suggested that spirituality and religion improved HRQoL partially by reducing loneliness. Future programs to improve HRQoL in Hispanic English-speaking cancer caregivers should address spirituality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J King
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., Drachman Hall, A260, PO Box 245209, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA.
| | - Terry A Badger
- College of Nursing, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Chris Segrin
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Cynthia A Thomson
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, The University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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19
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Mooney KH, Coombs LA, Whisenant MS, Wilson CM, Moraitis AM, Steinbach MN, Sloss EA, Lloyd JLE, Alekhina N, Berry PH, Kang Y, Iacob E, Donaldson GW. Impact of an automated, remote monitoring and coaching intervention in reducing hospice cancer family caregiving burden: A multisite randomized controlled trial. Cancer 2024; 130:1171-1182. [PMID: 38009953 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Care for those with life-limiting cancer heavily involves family caregivers who may experience significant physical and emotional burden. The purpose of this study was to test the impact of Symptom Care at Home (SCH), an automated digital family caregiver coaching intervention, during home hospice, when compared to usual hospice care (UC) on the primary outcome of overall caregiver burden. Secondary outcomes included Caregiver Burden at weeks 1 and 8, Mood and Vitality subscales, overall moderate-to-severe caregiving symptoms, and sixth month spouse/partner bereavement outcomes. METHODS Using a randomized, multisite, nonblinded controlled trial, 332 cancer family caregivers were enrolled and analyzed (159 SCH vs. 173 UC). Caregivers were primarily White (92%), female (69%), and spouse caregivers (53%). Caregivers provided daily reports on severity levels (0-10 scale) for their anxiety, depressed mood, fatigue, disturbed sleep, and caregiving interference with normal activities. These scores combined constituted the Caregiver Burden primary outcome. Based on reported symptoms, SCH caregivers received automated, tailored coaching about improving their well-being. Reports of moderate-to-severe caregiving symptoms also triggered hospice nurse notification. Secondary outcomes of Mood and Vitality were subcomponents of the Caregiver Burden score. A combined bereavement adjustment tool captured sixth month bereavement. RESULTS The SCH intervention reduced overall Caregiver Burden compared to UC (p < .001), with a 38% reduction at 8 weeks and a medium-to-large effect size (d = .61). SCH caregivers experienced less (p < .001) disruption in both Mood and Vitality. There were higher levels of moderate-to-severe caregiving symptoms overtime in UC (OR, 2.722). All SCH caregivers benefited regardless of caregiver: sex, caregiver relationship, age, patient diagnosis and family income. SCH spouse/partner caregivers achieved better sixth month bereavement adjustment than UC (p < .007). CONCLUSIONS The SCH intervention significantly decreased caregiving burden over UC and supports the maintenance of family caregiver mood and vitality throughout caregiving with extended benefit into bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathi H Mooney
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lorinda A Coombs
- University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Mary N Steinbach
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | - Jennifer L E Lloyd
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eli Iacob
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Gary W Donaldson
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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20
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Nightingale CL, Snavely AC, McLouth LE, Dressler EV, Kent EE, Adonizio CS, Danhauer SC, Cannady R, Hopkins JO, Kehn H, Weaver KE, Sterba KR. Processes for identifying caregivers and screening for caregiver and patient distress in community oncology: results from WF-1803CD. J Natl Cancer Inst 2024; 116:324-333. [PMID: 37738445 PMCID: PMC10852602 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite their vital roles, informal caregivers of adult cancer patients are commonly overlooked in cancer care. This study describes processes for identifying cancer caregivers and processes for distress screening and management among caregivers and patients in the understudied community oncology setting. METHODS Supportive care leaders from the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program practices completed online survey questions regarding caregiver identification, caregiver and patient distress screening, and distress management strategies. We described practice group characteristics and prevalence of study outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression explored associations between practice group characteristics and caregiver identification in the electronic health record (EHR). RESULTS Most (64.9%, 72 of 111) supportive care leaders reported routine identification and documentation of informal caregivers; 63.8% record this information in the EHR. Only 16% routinely screen caregivers for distress, though 92.5% screen patients. Distress management strategies for caregivers and patients are widely available, yet only 12.6% are routinely identified and screened and had at least 1 referral strategy for caregivers with distress; 90.6% are routinely screened and had at least 1 referral strategy for patients. Practices with a free-standing outpatient clinic (odds ratio [OR] = 0.29, P = .0106) and academic affiliation (OR = 0.01, P = .04) were less likely to identify and document caregivers in the EHR. However, higher oncologist volume was associated with an increased likelihood of recording caregiver information in the EHR (OR = 1.04, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Despite high levels of patient distress screening and management, few practices provide comprehensive caregiver engagement practices. Existing patient engagement protocols may provide a promising platform to build capacity to better address caregiver needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandylen L Nightingale
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Anna C Snavely
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Laurie E McLouth
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Emily V Dressler
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Erin E Kent
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christian S Adonizio
- Center for Oncology Research and Innovation, Geisinger Health, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Suzanne C Danhauer
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Rachel Cannady
- Cancer Caregiver Support, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Judith O Hopkins
- Hematology and Oncology, Novant Health Cancer Institute, Southeast Clinical Oncology Research Consortium National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Heather Kehn
- Metro Minnesota Community Oncology Research Consortium, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kathryn E Weaver
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Katherine R Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine, Charleston, SC, USA
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21
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Muliira JK, Kizza IB, Al-Kindi SN. Determinants of quality of life among Omani family caregivers of adult patients with cancer pain. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:70-79. [PMID: 36472250 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to explore the determinants of quality of life (QoL) among Omani family caregivers (FCGs) of adult patients with cancer pain. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional design, measures of caregiver reaction, knowledge about cancer pain, self-efficacy for cancer pain and other symptom management, QoL, and patient functional status were used to collect data from 165 FCGs and patients. Descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Most patients had intermittent (83%) and severe (50.9%) cancer pain. The FCGs had low QoL (58.44 ± 17.95), and this mostly impacted support and positive adaptation (55.2%). Low QoL was associated with low self-rated health, low confidence in the ability to control the patient's pain, low self-efficacy, high perceived distress due to patient pain, and a high impact of caregiving on physical health. The level of caregiver distress due to the patient's pain (p < 0.01), patient's functional status (p < 0.01), and perceived impact of caregiving on health (p < 0.05) were significant predictors of overall QoL. CONCLUSION Omani FCGs of patients with cancer pain suffer a negative impact on their QoL, and this is related to the patient's level of pain and functional status, caregiver's health, and self-efficacy in cancer pain and symptom management. The FCGs' QoL may be enhanced by augmenting their skills and self-efficacy in cancer pain and symptom management and by health promotion programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene B Kizza
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sumaiya N Al-Kindi
- Department of Adult Health & Critical Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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22
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Mroz EL, Kastrinos A, Bacharz K, Fisher CL, Applebaum AJ. "A little bit different now": Impacts of caregiving for parent with cancer on psychosocial development in emerging and young adulthood. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38293809 PMCID: PMC11289163 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2309488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Serving as a family caregiver for, and ultimately losing, a parent with advanced cancer in emerging and young adulthood has substantial, life phase-specific implications for psychosocial development. This qualitative study characterizes domains of psychosocial development impacted by cancer caregiving and parental death in this life phase. As part of a larger study, 33 bereaved emerging/young adult caregivers of parents who died following advanced cancer completed semi-structured interviews. A thematic analysis leveraging the constant comparative method was conducted by two coders and generated three themes, which described impacts of caregiving on: identity, life path, and relational intimacy and roles. Analyses also defined specific outcomes within these domains. Findings suggest that cancer caregiving-loss experiences can greatly influence developmental pursuits in this life phase. Findings validate a range of possible psychosocial impacts these caregivers may experience and can guide development of supportive resources for this growing subgroup of bereaved family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Mroz
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amanda Kastrinos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kelsey Bacharz
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Carla L Fisher
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Allison J Applebaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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23
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McAndrew NS, Gray TF, Wallace L, Calkins K, Guttormson J, Harding ES, Applebaum AJ. Existential distress in family caregivers: scoping review of meaning-making interventions. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e676-e685. [PMID: 37604657 PMCID: PMC11040498 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Family and friend caregivers often feel overwhelmed by and ill-prepared for their responsibilities. Many feel helpless living with uncertainty about the outcome of the patient's illness, which leads to existential distress. Supportive care interventions that address existential distress by promoting meaning and purpose buffer the negative effects of caregiver burden and promote resilience and growth. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe the depth and breadth of available interventions targeting caregiver existential distress. METHODS We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review methods and applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension checklist. SCOPUS, Ovid MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were searched for interventions that targeted existential distress by promoting meaning-making, spiritual well-being, post-traumatic growth and/or benefit finding for caregivers of seriously ill adult patients. RESULTS We screened 1377 titles/abstracts and 42 full-text articles. Thirty-one articles (28 unique studies) met inclusion criteria. Most interventions were designed for caregivers supporting patients with cancer (n=14) or patients receiving palliative care (n=9). Promising interventions included Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy for Cancer Caregivers, Meaning-Based Intervention for Patients and their Partners, Legacy Intervention for Family Enactment, Family Participatory Dignity Therapy and Existential Behavioural Therapy. More than half of the studies (n=20, 64%) were in the feasibility/acceptability/pilot stage of intervention testing. CONCLUSION Large randomised controlled trials with more diverse samples of caregivers are needed. Future research should explore the impact of delivering meaning-making interventions to caregivers throughout the illness trajectory. Developing strategies for scaling up and conducting cost analyses will narrow the research and practice gap for meaning-making interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie S McAndrew
- School of Nursing, College of Health Professions & Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Patient Care Research, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Tamryn F Gray
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lyndsey Wallace
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kelly Calkins
- College of Nursing, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jill Guttormson
- College of Nursing, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Eric S Harding
- Medical College of Wisconsin Libraries, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Allison J Applebaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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24
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Thompson JR, Fu H, Saw RPM, Sherman KA, Beedle V, Atkinson V, Boyle F, O'Sullivan NA, Martin LK, Bartula I. Supportive care needs in Australian melanoma patients and caregivers: results from a quantitative cross-sectional survey. Qual Life Res 2023; 32:3531-3545. [PMID: 37522941 PMCID: PMC10624748 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03492-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the supportive care needs of Australian melanoma patients and their caregivers to form the basis for improving services. METHODS General and melanoma-related supportive care needs in melanoma patients were measured using the SCNS-SF34 and SCNS-M12 respectively, whereas caregivers completed the SCNS-P&C. Patients also completed the MCQ-28 and FCRI-9, with all participants completing the QLQ-C30, DASS-21, and questions measuring utilisation and preference for supportive health services. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with unmet needs in melanoma patients. RESULTS A total of 56 early-stage patients, 100 advanced-stage patients, and 37 caregivers participated. At least three-quarters ([Formula: see text] 75%) of each participant group reported at least one unmet need. Of the ten most reported unmet needs in each participant group, at least six ([Formula: see text] 60%) were related to psychological and emotional well-being, with access to a psychologist the most desired service (> 25%). Fear of cancer recurrence was equally prevalent in both patient groups at a level indicative of need for intervention. Advanced-stage patients reported significantly (p < 0.05) more unmet psychological, physical and daily living, and sexuality needs, and significantly (p < 0.05) worse functioning than early-stage patients. CONCLUSION Australian melanoma patients and caregivers report substantial unmet supportive care needs, particularly regarding their psychological and emotional well-being. Psychological and emotional well-being services, such as access to a clinical psychologist or implementation of patient-reported outcome measures, should be incorporated into routine melanoma care to address unmet patient and caregiver needs and improve well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake R Thompson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia.
| | - Hong Fu
- Department of Cancer Services, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Robyn P M Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia
- Department of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kerry A Sherman
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Victoria Atkinson
- Department of Cancer Services, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Frances Boyle
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia
- Patricia Ritchie Centre for Cancer Care and Research, Mater Hospital, North Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Niamh A O'Sullivan
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Linda K Martin
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iris Bartula
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, 40 Rocklands Road, Wollstonecraft, Sydney, NSW, 2065, Australia
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25
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Howard AF, Crowe S, Choroszewski L, Kovatch J, Kelly M, Haljan G. When chronic critical illness is a family affair: A multi-perspective qualitative study of family involvement in long-term care. Chronic Illn 2023; 19:804-816. [PMID: 36426509 PMCID: PMC10655697 DOI: 10.1177/17423953221141134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Those with chronic critical illness (CCI) remain dependent on life-sustaining treatments and increasingly reside in long-term care facilities equipped to meet their needs. The nature of family involvement in care remains undetermined thwarting approaches to mitigate poor family outcomes. The research objective was to explicate family involvement in the care of an individual with CCI who resides in long-term care. METHODS In this qualitative research, we used thematic analysis and constant comparative techniques to analyze data from interviews with 38 participants: 11 family members, 6 residents with CCI, and 21 healthcare providers. RESULTS Involvement in care entailed family: (1) reorienting their life despite the stress and emotional toll; (2) assuming responsibility for meaningful activities and management of practical matters, yet struggling alone; (3) advocating for care by being present, reminding and pushing, and picking their battles; and (4) figuring out how to contribute to nursing care, but with unclear expectations. DISCUSSION The burden of family caregiving was substantial, contrasting the assumption that family are relieved of their caregiver responsibilities when the patient with CCI is in a care facility. Research to address unmet family needs specific to their roles and responsibilities could potentially improve family outcomes and is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fuchsia Howard
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah Crowe
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Critical Care, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laura Choroszewski
- Department of Critical Care, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joe Kovatch
- Department of Critical Care, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mary Kelly
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gregory Haljan
- Department of Critical Care, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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26
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Mohammadian B, Mohammadi-Shahboulaghi F, Hosseini M, Arsalani N, Fallahi-Khoshknab M, Pirjani P. Factors influencing support provision to the family caregivers of elderly patients with cancer: A qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 67:102452. [PMID: 37883906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Family caregivers (FCs) play a significant role in providing care to elderly patients with cancer (PWC). Meanwhile, they face a wide range of challenges and are considered hidden patients who require special attention and support. Nonetheless, they do not receive adequate support. This study aimed at exploring the factors influencing support provision to the FCs of elderly PWC. METHOD This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in 2020-2022. Thirty-one FCs and family members of elderly PWC and healthcare providers were purposefully recruited from various healthcare centers in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's conventional content analysis approach. Trustworthiness was ensured through Lincoln and Guba's criteria. RESULTS Factors influencing support provision to the FCs of elderly PWC came into three main categories, namely the potential for supporting elderly PWC and FCs, complexity of family and social support, and support-related challenges of the healthcare system. CONCLUSIONS Identifying the factors influencing support provision to the FCs of elderly PWC can assist healthcare policymakers and authorities in developing more effective strategies to support these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batol Mohammadian
- Nursing Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farahnaz Mohammadi-Shahboulaghi
- Iranian Research Center on Aging, Nursing Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammadali Hosseini
- Nursing Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Narges Arsalani
- Iranian Research Center on Aging, Nursing Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Pooneh Pirjani
- Iranian Cancer Control Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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27
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Yang CF, Tseng CN, Liao YJ, Gao ZX, Chen HP, Chang PC, Lee YH. Experiences of Family Caregivers Providing Home Care to Older Patients With Cancer: A Qualitative Study. J Nurs Res 2023; 31:e300. [PMID: 38015117 DOI: 10.1097/jnr.0000000000000579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older patients with cancer receive anticancer therapy in outpatient settings, and care-related issues may occur after discharge, which often requires family caregivers (FCs) to play a significant role in providing cancer care at home. However, relatively few studies have been focused on exploring the care experiences of these FCs. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to explore the care experiences of FCs caring for older family members with cancer at home. METHODS A qualitative study design and in-depth individual interviews were used to explore the at-home care experiences of FCs of older patients with cancer. The research was conducted in chemotherapy outpatient settings of a medical center in northern Taiwan. Content analysis was used to analyze data. The analyses focused on first extracting meaningful units from the text and then inducting categories from these units and determining the major themes. RESULTS Twenty FCs were interviewed. The three themes identified included (a) increased information needs and challenges in diet preparation and treatment decision making, (b) personal and patient-induced emotional stress, and (c) life rebalancing through the care experience. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The findings highlight the educational requirements, especially related to meeting personal dietary needs and obtaining psychological support, for FCs caring for older patients with cancer to help them rebalance their life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Fang Yang
- PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Second Degree Bachelor of Science, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; and Adjunct Supervisor, Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University Hospital, Yunlin Branch, Yunlin, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ning Tseng
- PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Asia Eastern University of Science and Technology, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ju Liao
- RN, Doctoral Candidate, Department of Nursing, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan
| | - Zi-Xuan Gao
- MSN, RN, Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ping Chen
- MSN, RN, Head Nurse, Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chih Chang
- BSN, RN, Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Hsiang Lee
- PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; and Adjunct Head Nurse, Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Akter J, Konlan KD, Nesa M, Ispriantari A. Factors influencing cancer patients' caregivers' burden and quality of life: An integrative review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21243. [PMID: 38027739 PMCID: PMC10643105 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This integrative review assessed the factors influencing cancer patients' caregivers' burden and quality of life (QoL). Relevant studies were retrieved from five electronic databases and screened. After systematic screening by title, abstract, and full text, the review included 15 studies published between 2000 and 2022 and used an interpretive thematic synthesis design for analysis. Age (older), sex (male), high work requirements, relationships with patients, low-income levels, high subjective stress, patient dependency level, and trait anxiety were significantly associated with higher caregiver burden. Factors associated with the low QoL of caregivers were age (less than 35 years), caregiving role (more responsibility), relationship with patients (first-degree relative), low income, living in the same home with the patient, and higher social and family responsibilities. A moderate negative correlation (n = 6) was identified between the sum of the QoL scores and the burden. Future research should be integrated into identifying appropriate means to support caregivers of patients with chronic diseases, including cancer by segregating interventions to target specific caregiver populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jotsna Akter
- College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- National Institute of Advanced Nursing Education and Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kennedy Diema Konlan
- College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Public Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Meherun Nesa
- College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- National Institute of Advanced Nursing Education and Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Aloysia Ispriantari
- College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Nursing, Institute of Technology Science and Health RS dr Soepraoen, Malang, Indonesia
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29
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Nwakasi CC, Esiaka D, Nweke C, de Medeiros K, Villamar W, Chidebe R. "We Don't Do Any of These Things Because We are a Death-Denying Culture": Sociocultural Perspectives of Black and Latinx Cancer Caregivers. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3470325. [PMID: 37961616 PMCID: PMC10635356 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3470325/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study explored the unique challenges and experiences faced by Black and Latinx cancer survivors through the lens of their caregivers, including the specific cultural, social, and systemic factors that influence cancer survivorship experience within these communities in the United States. We conducted six focus group discussions (three Latinx and three Black groups) with a total of 33 caregivers of cancer survivors, (Mean age = 63 years). Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis; The sociocultural stress and coping model was used as a framework to interpret the findings. We identified three main themes: 1) families as (un)stressors in survivorship such as the vitality of social connections and families as unintended burden; 2) responses after diagnosis specifically whether to conceal or accept a diagnosis, and 3) experiencing health care barriers including communication gaps, biased prioritizing of care, and issues of power, trust, and need for stewardship. This study's findings align with previous research, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural, familial, and healthcare factors in cancer survivorship experiences within underserved communities. The study reiterates the need for culturally tailored emotional, physical, financial, and informational support for survivors and their caregivers. Also, the study highlights a need to strengthen mental health and coping strategies, to help address psychological distress and improve resilience among survivors and their caregivers.
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30
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Özönder Ünal I, Ordu C. Decoding Caregiver Burden in Cancer: Role of Emotional Health, Rumination, and Coping Mechanisms. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2700. [PMID: 37830736 PMCID: PMC10573024 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11192700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the role of psychological factors in caregiver burden among caregivers of stage 4 cancer patients. Data were collected from 328 caregivers of cancer patients, employing the Zarit Care Burden Scale, Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS-42), Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (DAS-A), Ruminative Thought Style Questionnaire (RTSQ), and Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief COPE). Males, spouses, and caregivers of patients with a PEG or tracheostomy, or those diagnosed with pancreatic biliary cancer were found to have a significantly higher risk of caregiver burden. Age, sex, caregiver-patient relationship, caregiving duration, patient's catheter status, cancer types, depression and stress severity, rumination, dysfunctional attitudes, and dysfunctional coping strategies explained 69.7% of the variance in Zarit Care Burden Scale scores (F(14,313) = 51.457, p < 0.001), illustrating their significant predictive relationship with caregiver burden. Moderation analysis revealed significant interactions of emotional coping with depression (b = -0.0524, p = 0.0076) and dysfunctional coping with stress on caregiver burden (b = 0.014, p = 0.006). Furthermore, rumination mediated the relationships between caregiver burden, stress, and depression (p < 0.01). Overall, the results highlight the intricate relationships among caregiver burden, mental health, and coping strategies, suggesting tailored interventions to support caregiver health and quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ipek Özönder Ünal
- Department of Psychiatry, Tuzla State Hospital, Içmeler Mahallesi, Piri Reis Caddesi, No: 74 Tuzla, Istanbul 34947, Turkey
| | - Cetin Ordu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gayrettepe Florence Nightingale Hospital, Cemil Aslan Güder Sk. No: 8, Beşiktaş, Istanbul 34349, Turkey;
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31
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Ng JHY, Luk BHK, Lee NPM. Gender differences in cancer spousal caregiving: A systematic review. Palliat Support Care 2023; 21:880-889. [PMID: 37334489 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523000731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer does affect not only the lives of the patients but also that of their spouses. The aims of this systematic review are to (i) explore the gender differences in the impact of caregiving for cancer on spousal caregivers, (ii) facilitate the conceptual understanding of gender differences in caregiving, and (iii) identify directions for future research and clinical practice targeting spousal caregivers. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted of the electronic databases of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EBSCO, and CINAHL Plus for papers published in English between 2000 and 2022. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to identify, select, appraise, and synthesize the studies. RESULTS A total of 20 studies from seven countries were reviewed. Findings of the studies were presented using the biopsychosocial model. Spousal caregivers of cancer patients suffered from physical, psychological, and socioeconomic morbidities, with female spousal caregivers reporting a higher level of distress. The gendered positioning of spousal caregivers in the societal context had further brought about over-responsibility and self-sacrifice among women. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The gendered positions of cancer spousal caregivers further illustrated the gender differences in the caregiving experiences and consequences. Health-care professionals in routine clinical practice should be proactive in identifying physical, mental, and social morbidities among cancer spousal caregivers, particularly female ones, and providing timely interventions. Health-care professionals should recognize the pressing need for empirical research, political engagement, and action plans to address the health status and health-related behaviors of patients' spouses along the cancer trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet H Y Ng
- Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bronya H K Luk
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Natalie P M Lee
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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32
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Buchanan A, Sarfo A, Rangel ML, Nangia J, Badr H. A mixed-methods study to inform development of a caregiver-specific problem list for cancer distress screening. Psychooncology 2023; 32:1578-1585. [PMID: 37698499 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Oncology guidelines for distress management recommend use of the single-item distress thermometer (DT) and accompanying Problem List (PL) to identify patients with high distress levels and their potential sources of distress. However, oncology practices have yet to establish standardized protocols to screen and triage caregivers with high distress levels. With an eye toward integrating caregiver-centered support services into cancer care, this mixed-methods study sought to assess caregiver distress and challenges that may contribute to their distress. METHODS Nineteen caregivers of metastatic breast cancer patients (60% female, 47% ethnic/racial minority) completed an interview and a survey comprised of the DT, the original 39-item PL, and five additional caregiver-specific PL items. RESULTS Caregivers reported moderate distress levels and more than half exceeded the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) cut-off, denoting significant distress. There was no association between caregiver distress and the number of items endorsed on the original PL. Qualitative analysis identified nine problem domains as areas of caregiver unmet need needs (i.e., practical challenges, caregiving responsibilities, social/relationship issues, caregiver and patient emotional well-being, caregiver and patient physical well-being, spiritual well-being, and communication). Two of the problem domains (caregiving responsibilities and communication) were not captured in any way by the original PL. CONCLUSION With further research and development, the identified domains could serve as the basis for a caregiver-specific PL to facilitate triage and referral when incorporated as part of routine distress screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Buchanan
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Astrid Sarfo
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Maria Lizette Rangel
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Julie Nangia
- Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hoda Badr
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Badger TA, Segrin C, Crane TE, Morrill KE, Sikorskii A. Social determinants of health, psychological distress, and caregiver burden among informal cancer caregivers of cancer survivors during treatment. J Psychosoc Oncol 2023; 42:333-350. [PMID: 37609806 PMCID: PMC10884349 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2023.2248486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study compared three ethnic/racial groups of informal cancer caregivers on social determinants of health and tested social determinants of health as predictors of psychological distress and caregiver burden. METHODS This study was a secondary analysis of baseline data of a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) testing symptom management interventions with caregiver-survivor dyads. Caregivers completed baseline measures of social determinants of health (SDoH), functional limitations, psychological distress, and caregiver burden. Hispanic, non-Hispanic White, and non-Hispanic other races caregivers were compared on these variables. Multivariate tests of associations between SDoH and caregiver burden and psychological distress were conducted in structural equation modeling with caregiver burden and psychological distress as latent variables. RESULTS Hispanic caregivers reported significantly higher caregiver burden, specifically for finances, family, and schedules. Caregiver burden was significantly predicted by having income barely or not meeting needs, being female, socially isolated, married, Hispanic, and having poor physical functioning. Significant predictors of caregivers' psychological distress: being female, being socially isolated, and having poor physical functioning. CONCLUSION Hispanic caregivers experience significant challenges associated with caregiver burden, especially if they are female, socially isolated, and have poor physical functioning. Assessment of these SDoH is important in caregiver health to provide supportive care during caregiving. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03743415 www.clinicaltrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry A. Badger
- Department of Psychiatry and Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, College of Nursing, 1305 N. Martin Avenue, University of Arizona, Tucson AZ 85721
| | - Chris Segrin
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona
| | - Tracy E. Crane
- Miller School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami
| | - Kristin E. Morrill
- Community and Systems Health Science Division, College of Nursing, University of Arizona
| | - Alla Sikorskii
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, 909 Wilson Road, Road 321, East Lansing, MI 48824
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Blom C, Reis A, Lencastre L. Caregiver Quality of Life: Satisfaction and Burnout. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6577. [PMID: 37623163 PMCID: PMC10454357 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Informal caregivers (ICs) of cancer patients play a crucial role in health care. Several of the challenges they face can affect their quality of life (QoL). This cross-sectional study explored role of burnout and caregiving satisfaction in their relationship to QoL. Portuguese ICs of adult cancer patients (N = 92) answered a sociodemographic and caregiving questionnaire, the WHOQOL-SRPB BREF, assessing physical, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual QoL domains; the Maslach Burnout Interview, assessing the dimensions of depersonalization, emotional exhaustion, and personal accomplishment; and a Visual Analogic Scale on caregiving satisfaction. We tested correlations and a parallel mediation model for each domain of QoL, considering burnout dimensions as possible mediators between satisfaction and QoL domains. Our results show that satisfaction, burnout dimensions, and almost all QoL domains are correlated. Together, burnout dimensions seem to mediate the relationship between caregiving satisfaction and psychological, environmental, and spiritual QoL. Satisfaction had a significant indirect effect solely through emotional exhaustion on psychological QoL (β = 1.615, 95% BCI [0.590; 2.849]), environmental QoL (β = 0.904, 95% BCI [0.164; 1.876]), and spiritual QoL (β = 0.816, 95% BCI [0.019; 1.792]). It seems essential for mental health professionals to address these dimensions when providing support to an IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Blom
- CPUP—Center for Psychology at the University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Reis
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- CINTESIS—Center for Health Technology and Services Research, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Leonor Lencastre
- CPUP—Center for Psychology at the University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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Liu Z, Chen C, Hu Y. Factors related to the quality of life of family cancer caregivers. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1180317. [PMID: 37599889 PMCID: PMC10436474 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1180317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer caregivers directly affect patient health outcomes. To maintain the function and health of caregivers so that patients can receive efficient care, we must pay more attention to caregivers' quality of life in the process of caring for patients. However, the factors influencing caregivers' quality of life are complex. Aim To assess caregivers' quality of life in the process of caring for cancer patients and to explore the factors associated with it. Design This was a descriptive correlational study. A self-report questionnaire was used to anonymously collect data from one Chinese cancer hospital. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being (FACIT-Sp-12), General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale 10 (CD-RISC-10), 24-item Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) and Caregiver Evaluation Questionnaire were used to measure caregivers' spiritual well-being, self-efficacy, affective well-being, resilience, caregiver burden and quality of life. One-way analysis of variance, the Kruskal-Wallis H test and multiple regression analysis were applied to measure the factors influencing caregivers' situations. Setting and participants A total of 315 caregivers of cancer patients were selected by convenience sampling. All participants were invited to complete the questionnaire through a one-on-one approach. Results The mean score for caregiver quality of life was 204.62 ± 36.61. After controlling for demographic factors, self-efficacy (β' = 0.265, p < 0.01), resilience (β' = 0.287, p < 0.01) and positive affect (β' = 0.103, p < 0.01) were protective factors for caregivers' quality of life. Negative affect (β' = -0.217, p < 0.01) and caregiver burden (β' = -0.219, p < 0.01) were negative factors. Notably, not all of these predictors can predict all dimensions of quality of life. Conclusion Caregivers' quality of life needs to be further improved. The results of this study may provide clues to help identify factors influencing caregivers' quality of life and implement targeted strategies to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenya Liu
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Provincial Key Medicine Laboratory of Nursing, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Cancan Chen
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Provincial Key Medicine Laboratory of Nursing, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanli Hu
- School of Nursing, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Ochoa-Dominguez CY, Miller KA, Banegas MP, Sabater-Minarim D, Chan RY. Psychological Impact and Coping Strategies of Hispanic Parents of Children with Cancer: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5928. [PMID: 37297532 PMCID: PMC10252186 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20115928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the cancer trajectory, parents of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) may experience mental and social challenges requiring continual adaptation to cancer-induced stress. Using Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping framework, this qualitative study aimed to describe Hispanic parents' psychological health and explore their coping strategies. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 15 Hispanic caregivers from a safety-net hospital in Los Angeles County. To be eligible, participants had to be: the primary caregiver of a CCS who had completed active treatment, the primary caregiver or child self-identified as Hispanic, and proficient in English or Spanish. The interviews lasted approximately 60 min, were audio-recorded (in English and Spanish), and professionally transcribed. Data were analyzed following a thematic content analysis with deductive and inductive approaches on Dedoose. Participants described high levels of stress and fear when their child was diagnosed with cancer. They also shared experiencing symptoms of social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression. Participants' coping strategies were encompassed by three major themes: problem-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidant coping strategies. Problem-focused coping strategies included self-efficacy, behavioral change, and social support. Emotion-focused coping strategies included religious practices and positive reframing. Avoidant coping strategies included denial and self-distraction. Despite the evident disparities in psychological health for Hispanic parents of CCSs, gaps remain in designing a culturally tailored program to help alleviate the caregiver burden. This study provides insights regarding coping strategies that Hispanic caregivers use to deal with the psychological impact of their child's cancer diagnosis. Our findings also delve into the contextual and cultural factors that impact psychological adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Y. Ochoa-Dominguez
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
- Center for Health Equity Education and Research, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kimberly A. Miller
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Matthew P. Banegas
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Center for Health Equity Education and Research, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Daniel Sabater-Minarim
- Center for Health Equity Education and Research, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Randall Y. Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Reblin M, Iacob E, Tay DL, Li H, Hebdon MCT, Beck A, Donaldson G, Cloyes KG, Ellington L. Family Caregiver Reports of Their Own and Patient Symptoms in Cancer Home Hospice Approaching End-of-Life. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:508-516. [PMID: 35689339 PMCID: PMC9734284 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221108119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Family caregivers assume the primary responsibility of assessing and managing hospice cancer patient symptoms while simultaneously managing their own wellbeing and symptoms. Objectives: Describe caregivers' assessment of hospice cancer patient and their own symptoms during the last 60 days of patient life, and assess the relationship between patient and caregiver symptoms over time. Methods: Caregiver symptom report of self and cancer home hospice patient symptom data were collected via telephone in the final 60 days of patient life. Descriptive data on symptom severity and prevalence were summarized. Exploratory Factor Analysis was used to group individual symptoms. Factors representing patient symptoms, caregiver symptoms, and caregiver outlook were analyzed using mixed-effects analysis to determine relationships between factors and change in relationship between factors over time. Results: Data from 61 patient-caregiver dyads are presented. At least 1 day of moderate-to-severe symptoms were reported in the majority of dyads. Significant auto-regressive associations were found, namely previous factor scores for an individual positively predicted the next factor scores for that individual. Previous caregiver report of patient symptoms was also positively associated with the next report of caregiver symptoms; previous caregiver report of their own symptoms were negatively associated with their next report of patient symptoms. Patient and caregiver symptoms and caregiver outlook worsened over time and the relationship between patient and caregiver symptoms strengthened closer to death. Conclusion: Our findings may guide hospice care team responses to caregiver and patient symptoms to promote individual level and unit level functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Reblin
- School of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Eli Iacob
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Djin L. Tay
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Hui Li
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Anna Beck
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Gary Donaldson
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Keleş MN, Salameh T, Seven M. Quality of Life of Caregivers of Women Receiving Cancer Treatment in Turkey. FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE JOURNAL OF NURSING 2023; 31:S31-S37. [PMID: 37162052 PMCID: PMC10911777 DOI: 10.5152/fnjn.2023.22235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM The study aims to explore the predictors of the quality of life of caregivers of women receiving cancer treatment in Turkey. METHOD This study was conducted in a Medical-Oncology inpatient clinic of a University Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, between February and June 2020. Descriptive data were collected from 128 family caregivers using caregiver and patient identification forms and the quality of life scale- family version. Bivariate analyses and multiple regression were used to analyze the data. RESULTS The mean score of the quality of life was 4.41 (standard deviation=0.63). A backward multiple regression revealed that being female caregivers, increased time spent for care per day, and caring for women with metastatic cancer were factors associated with poor quality of life. CONCLUSION Although caregiving responsibilities bring challenges to every caregiver, those who are at high risk for impaired quality of life during caregiving need further support in their caregiving to maintain quality of life. Further research should focus on finding solutions to better support caregivers who are experiencing impairment in their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maide Nur Keleş
- Department of Nursing, Halic University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
- Koc University Graduate School of Health Sciences, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Memnun Seven
- Koç University, School of Nursing, İstanbul, Turkey
- Department of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Amherst College of Nursing, MA, USA
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Murong M, Giannopoulos E, Pirrie L, Giuliani ME, Fazelzad R, Bender J, Jones J, Papadakos J. The Experience of Informal Newcomer Cancer Caregivers with Limited Language Proficiency: A Scoping Review. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:436-448. [PMID: 36538206 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01442-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This scoping review explored what is known about the experiences of informal cancer caregivers (CGs) who are newcomers with limited language proficiency. A literature search was performed in seven databases and the search yielded 11,289 articles. After duplicate removal and title and abstract screening, 216 articles underwent full text review and 57 articles and were synthesized. Most studies (n = 41, 72%) were qualitative and were published in North America (n = 35, 61%). Most CG participants were female (69%) and only 19 studies explicitly identified the CG country of origin. Of those that did, 26% originated from Asia, with most migrating from East Asia. Significant challenges were experienced by newcomer CGs and chief among these were related to communication challenges with HCPs that were exacerbated by a lack of availability of medical interpreters and the complexity of oncology health information. Efforts are needed to better integrate newcomer CGs into cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijia Murong
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Eleni Giannopoulos
- Cancer Health Literacy Research Centre, Cancer Education Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 585 University Avenue, ELLICSR PMB B-130, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N2, Canada
| | - Lorraine Pirrie
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Meredith Elana Giuliani
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Cancer Health Literacy Research Centre, Cancer Education Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 585 University Avenue, ELLICSR PMB B-130, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N2, Canada.,The Institute for Education Research, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Radiation of Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rouhi Fazelzad
- Library and Information Services, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Bender
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer Jones
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janet Papadakos
- Cancer Health Literacy Research Centre, Cancer Education Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 585 University Avenue, ELLICSR PMB B-130, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N2, Canada. .,Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,The Institute for Education Research, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
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Reblin M, Tay DL, Iacob E, Cloyes KG, Hebdon MCT, Ellington L. Hospice Caregivers' Perception of Family and Non-Family Social Support and Stress over Time: Associations with Reports of General Support. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5009. [PMID: 36981917 PMCID: PMC10049686 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Social support has been identified as a key factor to protect wellbeing for home hospice cancer caregivers. However, few studies have assessed social support over time in this context, and measures of support are often limited to general assessments of perceived support. Our goal was to (1) describe change in cancer home hospice caregivers' social support over time during care and into bereavement and (2) explore the impact of perceived stress and support from family and non-family members on caregivers' perceived general social support. We conducted a secondary analysis of longitudinal prospective questionnaire data. Forty caregivers completed measures of general perceived support, family and non-family support and stress during hospice enrollment and 2 and 6 months post the patient's death. Linear mixed models were used to determine change in support over time and the contribution of specific support/stress ratings to general support assessments. Caregivers overall had moderate and stable levels of social support over time, though there was significant variation between and within individuals. Family and non-family support and stress from family predicted general perceptions of social support, while no effects were found for non-family stress. This work suggests a need for more specific measures of support and stress, and the need for research to focus on improving baseline levels of caregiver perceived support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Reblin
- Department of Family Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Djin L. Tay
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Eli Iacob
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Kristin G. Cloyes
- School of Nursing, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | | | - Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Acquati C, Head KJ, Rand KL, Alwine JS, Short DN, Cohee AA, Champion VL, Draucker CB. Psychosocial Experiences, Challenges, and Recommendations for Care Delivery among Partners of Breast Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2786. [PMID: 36833489 PMCID: PMC9956235 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
For women diagnosed with breast cancer, partners are consistently identified as the primary support person. Despite growing consensus about the psychosocial experience and unmet needs of cancer caregivers, limited evidence exists about strategies to offer partner-centered care across the cancer continuum. This study describes challenges endured by partners of breast cancer survivors (BCS), strategies implemented to manage these experiences, and recommendations for healthcare providers to inform targeted psychosocial care. Using convenience sampling, 22 partners of female BCS were recruited and completed semi-structured interviews. Conventional content analysis was used to code and synthesize findings. Participants described undergoing five experiences in their role as romantic partners: (a) assuming the role of caregiver, (b) becoming healthcare advocates for BCS, (c) connecting emotionally with the partner, (d) managing their own painful emotions, and (e) connecting with others for support. Experience-specific coping strategies and recommendations were identified. Romantic partners face multiple transitions across the cancer care continuum, which warrant investigation to sustain their well-being and active participation in illness management. Psychosocial interventions for this group will benefit from flexible implementation and attention to care delivery, mental health, and supportive/social needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA
- Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katharine J. Head
- Department of Communication Studies, School of Liberal Arts, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kevin L. Rand
- School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | | | | | - Andrea A. Cohee
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Victoria L. Champion
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Making visible the cost of informal caregivers' time in Latin America: a case study for major cardiovascular, cancer and respiratory diseases in eight countries. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:28. [PMID: 36604686 PMCID: PMC9815678 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14835-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal care is a key element of health care and well-being for society, yet it is scarcely visible and rarely studied in health economic evaluations. This study aims to estimate the time use and cost associated with informal care for cardiovascular diseases, pneumonia and ten different cancers in eight Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico and Peru). METHODS We carried out an exhaustive literature review on informal caregivers' time use, focusing on the selected diseases. We developed a survey for professional caregivers and conducted expert interviews to validate this data in the local context. We used an indirect estimate through the interpolation of the available data, for those cases in which we do not found reliable information. We used the proxy good method to estimate the monetary value of the use of time of informal care. National household surveys databases were processed to obtain the average wage per hour of a proxy of informal caregiver. Estimates were expressed in 2020 US dollars. RESULTS The study estimated approximately 1,900 million hours of informal care annually and $ 4,300 million per year in average informal care time cost for these fifteen diseases and eight countries analyzed. Cardiovascular diseases accounted for an informal care burden that ranged from 374 to 555 h per year, while cancers varied from 512 to 1,825 h per year. The informal care time cost share on GDP varied from 0.26% (Mexico) to 1.38% (Brazil), with an average of 0.82% in the studied American countries. Informal care time cost represents between 16 and 44% of the total economic cost (direct medical and informal care cost) associated with health conditions. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that there is a significant informal care economic burden -frequently overlooked- in different chronic and acute diseases in Latin American countries; and highlights the relevance of including the economic value of informal care in economic evaluations of healthcare.
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Barriers and facilitators of Hispanic/Latino parents caregiving for a childhood cancer survivor: a qualitative study. Cancer Causes Control 2023; 34:151-160. [PMID: 36394697 PMCID: PMC9669534 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-022-01651-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This qualitative study aimed to explore Hispanic parents of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) perceptions of facilitators and barriers to their caregiving experience. METHODS We conducted semi-structured phone interviews with 15 Hispanic/Latino parents (English and Spanish). Parents were recruited using a purposive sampling method in a safety-net hospital in Los Angeles County from July-September 2020. Interviews were audio-recorded, professionally transcribed, and analyzed in the language they were conducted. Two coders independently coded interviews following reflexive thematic analysis and elements of grounded theory methodology. RESULTS Most caregivers were mothers caring for leukemia CCS who had finished treatment more than 2 years prior. Caregivers expressed gratitude to social workers for introducing and aiding with the application process for safety-net programs that enabled caregivers to focus on their child's care and well-being. Caregivers revealed the importance of supportive communication with the medical team, particularly after their child's treatment was considered complete. All caregivers found caring for a child with cancer overwhelming, and many described deteriorations in their health and well-being. Financial instability, transportation difficulties, and work disruptions were identified as barriers, resulting in caregiver distress. Caregivers also shared the challenges they experienced navigating the healthcare system, seeking care despite lack of legal residency, and staying afloat despite limited employment opportunities. CONCLUSION Improving navigation to resources and improving relationships with the medical team may reduce the perceived caregiving burden among Hispanic/Latino caregivers throughout their family's cancer journey.
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Cheboi SK, Lagat K, Nyawira D, Kariuki P, Mutai J, Nganga W. Providers' Understanding of Cancer Aetiology and Supportive Features for Indigenous Palliative Cancer Care Service Provision in Kenya. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2023; 12:27536130231198427. [PMID: 38445297 PMCID: PMC10913503 DOI: 10.1177/27536130231198427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Background Palliative care is a fundamental component of providing people-centred health services to cancer patients. However, the primary pillars of indigenous palliative care such as provider understanding of cancer, its aetiology, and features are undocumented. Objective We sought to understand Traditional Health Providers (THPs) understanding of cancer aetiology, and the functional features that support indigenous palliative cancer care service provision in Kenya. Method The study used a mixed methods cross-sectional design. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 193 THPs, who self-reported to manage cancer patients. The findings were enriched and validated through member checking in 6 focus group discussions and five journey mapping in-depth interviews. Results Despite diversity in culture and experience among the indigenous providers in Kenya, their description of cancer etiology and their management practices and primary goal were similar. Cancer was consistently described as a deadly life-deforming disease by 61.1% of THPs (n = 118/193) and attributed to chemicals and toxins in the body 41.5% (n = 80). The indigenous palliative-care system was reported to be characterized by five tiered levels of care, diversity in expertise and experience, shared and consultative process (60%) and family involvement in medical decision (59.5%). Herbal regimen (60.1%) was found to be the cornerstone of informal palliative care blended with nutrition management 78.2% (n = 151), lifestyle changes 63.7% (n = 123) and counseling services 55.9% (n = 108). Payments for service were arbitrarily made in cash or in kind. Conclusion The features of indigenous palliative care services are informed by the providers' distinctive cultural terms and descriptions of cancer and cancer aetiology. Shared and consultative protocols, regimen exchange, referral to cascaded care, and caregiver involvement were all important palliative-care clues to saving and enhancing lives. The features provide context for development of indigenous palliative care framework, engagement of policy makers, and promotion of culturally-inclusive indigenous palliative care model for adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon K. Cheboi
- Centre for Biodiversity (CBD), National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Health Management Informatics, Kenyatta university, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kiprop Lagat
- Department of Culture, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daisy Nyawira
- Centre for Biodiversity (CBD), National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peris Kariuki
- Centre for Biodiversity (CBD), National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joseph Mutai
- Centre for Public Health Research (CPHR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wanjiru Nganga
- Centre for Biodiversity (CBD), National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Nairobi, Kenya
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Gan GG, Tey KWF, Mat S, Saad M, Bee PC, Malik RA, Ho GF, Ng CG. Quality of Life of Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients in a Developing Nation. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2022; 23:3905-3914. [PMID: 36444604 PMCID: PMC9930968 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2022.23.11.3905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality of life (QOL) of family caregivers of cancer patients is usually affected due to increase in caregiver burden. Their QOL has not garnered much attention by many including the health professionals and community. This study aims to explore the QOL of family caregivers of cancer patients in a multi-ethnic country in Asia and to investigate its associate factors. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study where family caregivers and patients who were diagnosed of cancers within 12 months were recruited. QOL of caregivers were measured using The Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC). Psychological distress was measured using Hospital anxiety and depressive scale. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the related factors of QOL of caregivers. RESULTS A total of 458 patients/caregiver pairs were included. Symptoms of anxiety and depression reported by caregivers were 24.9% and 24.2% respectively. Caregivers of patients with solid tumors have better CQOLC score compared to those who cared for patients with hematological cancers (91.25 vs 86.75). Caregivers of non-Malay ethnicity, those caring for patients with advanced stage cancer and with hematological cancers had significantly poorer QOL. QOL of caregivers are also significantly affected when patients demonstrated anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSION This study provides detailed evaluation of the QOL of caregivers of cancer patients in Malaysia. The significant psychological distress and low caregiver QOL indicate the urgent need for comprehensive supports for caregivers with cancer patients, especially those caring for patients with haematological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gin Gin Gan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. ,For Correspondence:
| | - Kevin Wen Fei Tey
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Sumaiyah Mat
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Marniza Saad
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ping Chong Bee
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Rozita Abd Malik
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Gwo Fuang Ho
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Chong Guan Ng
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Bekui BAA, Ohene LA, Badzi C, Ampomah M, Aziato L. Physical and socioeconomic burden of caregiving on family caregivers of children with cancer at a tertiary Hospital in Ghana. Nurs Open 2022; 10:915-925. [PMID: 36126082 PMCID: PMC9834190 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer is proportionately higher in Africa and these result in increased demands on caregivers. The inability of affected children to take care of themselves; coupled with prescribed medical interventions presents physical and social burdens on family caregivers. AIMS AND METHODS This study used a qualitative exploratory design to explore the physical and socioeconomic challenges for family caregivers of children diagnosed with cancer and receiving care at one of the biggest tertiary hospitals in Ghana. A total of thirteen family caregivers of children with cancer were interviewed. FINDINGS Two major themes were identified: Burden of care on Physical Health and Socioeconomic burdens of caregiving on the family caregiver. It was reported that family caregivers encounter physical challenges such as Aches and Pains when performing caregiving activities, Loss of Appetite, Fatigue, Compromised Functional State and Sleep Disruption. The second theme, Socioeconomic burdens of caregiving on family caregivers account for the consequences of caregiving on social lives, family relationships, finance and employment. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The study recommends that measures that provided relief for the caregivers such as teaching them to adopt local measures of pain relief such as massage should be encouraged. Policies should adopt measures that encourage caregivers to have some days of rest whiles providing care to their children with cancer. Also, health insurance packages that provide relief for the cost of accessing healthcare, should be extended to children with cancers to support their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lillian Akorfa Ohene
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of GhanaLegonGhana
| | - Caroline Badzi
- Maternal and Child Health Department, School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of GhanaLegonGhana
| | - Menford Owusu Ampomah
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of GhanaLegonGhana
| | - Lydia Aziato
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyUniversity of GhanaLegonGhana
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Physical Activity and Nutrition-Related Beliefs, Behaviors, and Challenges in Individuals Living With Cancer and Their Caregivers. REHABILITATION ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/01.reo.0000000000000318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Stabile C, McCready T, Ancker JS, Pusic A, Temple LKF, Vickers A, Simon B, Ashby C, Carter J. A qualitative analysis of caregiver burden during the recovery process in ambulatory cancer surgery. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:5713-5721. [PMID: 35318529 PMCID: PMC10107336 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06991-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer impacts caregivers as well as patients. Ambulatory oncology surgeries requiring a short hospital stay place additional responsibility on informal caregivers as they help patients navigate their post-operative recovery at home, and determine if symptoms are expected or emergent. Our objective was to explore the experience of informal caregivers during patients' ambulatory cancer surgery and then recovery at home with remote monitoring of symptoms via web-based patient-reported outcomes questionnaire ("Recovery Tracker"). METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers from a larger sample participating in a randomized trial of the Recovery Tracker. Thematic analysis was applied to derive key themes and codes via NVivo qualitative analysis software (QSR International Inc.). Recruitment was conducted iteratively to ensure a heterogenous sample and thematic saturation. RESULTS Twenty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted. Four main themes emerged: (1) Predictability reduced stress among caregivers; (2) Unexpected events caused stress for caregivers; (3) The importance of a caregiver being present during the recovery process; and (4) Caregiver involvement in remote monitoring of symptoms was minimal. CONCLUSION Caregivers report not being overly burdened by the ambulatory surgery process, but they are very sensitive to any deviations from what they expected to happen. Further research and clinical practice on caregivers in the ambulatory setting should focus on how to set expectations and avoid unexpected events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Stabile
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Taylor McCready
- Josie Robertson Surgery Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jessica S Ancker
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Andrea Pusic
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Larissa K F Temple
- Colorectal Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Vickers
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brett Simon
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christina Ashby
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeanne Carter
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Huang RY, Lee TT, Lin YH, Liu CY, Wu HC, Huang SH. Factors Related to Family Caregivers’ Readiness for the Hospital Discharge of Advanced Cancer Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19138097. [PMID: 35805756 PMCID: PMC9266053 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19138097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: Many family caregivers of advanced cancer patients worry about being unable to provide in-home care and delay the discharge. Little is known about the influencing factors of discharge readiness. Methods: This study aimed to investigate the influencing factors of family caregivers’ readiness, used a cross-sectional survey, and enrolled 123 sets of advanced cancer patients and family caregivers using convenience sampling from four oncology wards in a medical centre in northern Taiwan. A self-developed five-point Likert questionnaire, the “Discharge Care Assessment Scale”, surveyed the family caregivers’ difficulties with providing in-home care. Results: The study showed that the discharge readiness of family caregivers affects whether patients can be discharged home. Moreover, the influencing factors of family caregivers’ discharge readiness were the patient’s physical activity performance status and expressed discharge willingness; the presence of someone to assist family caregivers with in-home care; and the difficulties of in-home care. The best prediction model accuracy was78.0%, and the Nagelkerke R2 was 0.52. Conclusion: Discharge planning should start at the point of admission data collection, with the influencing factors of family caregivers’ discharge readiness. It is essential to help patients increase the likelihood of being discharged home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru-Yu Huang
- Department of Nursing, Mackay Memorial Hospital Tamsui Branch, New Taipei City 25160, Taiwan; (R.-Y.H.); (H.-C.W.)
| | - Ting-Ting Lee
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Hsien Lin
- Division of Radiotherapy, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 11220, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Yu Liu
- Department of Health Care Management, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei 11219, Taiwan;
- Department of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei 11219, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chun Wu
- Department of Nursing, Mackay Memorial Hospital Tamsui Branch, New Taipei City 25160, Taiwan; (R.-Y.H.); (H.-C.W.)
| | - Shu-He Huang
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2826-7227; Fax: +886-2-2822-9973
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Coenen P, Zegers AD, de Vreeze N, van der Beek AJ, Duijts SFA. 'Nobody can take the stress away from me': a qualitative study on experiences of partners of patients with cancer regarding their work and health. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 45:1696-1704. [PMID: 35604402 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2074547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore experienced health- and work-related problems of partners of patients with cancer, and their needs for support. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Dutch partners of patients with cancer. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed thematically, following the six steps of Braun & Clarke. RESULTS Of 20 included partners (mean age: 50 years [31-63]), 60% was female. Five themes consistently emerged from the data: 1) overwhelming chaos calls for taking control; 2) impact of prolonged stress; 3) flexibility and support of the employer are crucial; 4) coping with family and friends is a delicate matter; and 5) support from healthcare professionals is needed, but not a given. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study show that the burden on partners of patients with cancer is substantial and cannot be overlooked. The state of survival mode that partners get into during the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of their loved ones can have various implications on their physical and mental health, and work situation. Given this high burden and as legislation for care leave from work and (health care) support for partners appear to be insufficiently in place in the Dutch context, there is a need for better-targeted support for partners of patients with cancer. Implications for RehabilitationThe survival mode that partners of patients with cancer get into during the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of their loved ones can have various implications on their physical and mental health, and work situation.This study showed that the burden on partners of patients with cancer is substantial and cannot be overlooked.Given this high burden and because legislation for care leave from work and (health care) support for partners appears to be insufficiently in place in the Dutch context, there is a need for better-targeted support for partners of patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Coenen
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amber D Zegers
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nadia de Vreeze
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Allard J van der Beek
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia F A Duijts
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,The Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), Research & Development, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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