Family issues in cancer care.

Objective: This clinical study aimed to evaluate the psychosocial determinants influencing patients and caregivers seeking treatment at a tertiary cancer care center. Methods: The study included 175 patients or caregivers (86 males and 88 females) who visited the cancer hospital for checkups or treatment. Data were collected using self-designed questionnaires. The questionnaire assessed psychological and psychosocial issues, including anxiety, sleep, appetite, pain, fatigue, distress, depression, financial issues, family issues, social support, occupational issues, sexual issues, patient satisfaction, mood and thought, and concerns about the future. Statistical analyses, such as independent t-tests, were conducted to compare the differences between demographic factors and psychological and psychosocial issues. Results: The findings revealed that males scored higher on psychological issues, while females scored higher on psychosocial issues. Caregivers reported higher scores on both psychological and psychosocial issues compared to patients. Married patients exhibited higher scores on anxiety, sleep, and appetite compared to unmarried patients. Moreover, individuals with a family history of cancer scored higher on psychological issues, while those without a family history of cancer scored higher on psychosocial issues. Conclusion: The study highlights the significance of addressing psychosocial determinants when patients or their caregivers visit a tertiary cancer care center. Understanding and addressing psychological and psychosocial factors can contribute to better support and treatment for cancer patients and their caregivers.

A vast majority of advanced cancer care, including palliative and end-of-life care, is provided by the family members. Loss of loved ones leads to practical, emotional and psychological distress and thereby poor quality of life. The present study aims to explore the psycho social experiences of bereaved family members in the Indian context. In this prospective observational qualitative study, bereaved family members were (N=42) interviewed using a semi-structured in-depth interview schedule, after obtaining consent. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and translated by the researcher. Manual thematic analysis was used for analysing the data collected. The thematic analysis of the transcripts revealed six key themes: Heightened distress, family expectations, emotional conflicts versus collusion, challenges during COVID pandemic, coping with self and others, and gratification from caregiving. Many family members maintained a positive outlook on the care they provided and shared effective coping strategies. However, most reported heightened distress due to the loss of their loved one and struggled with emotional expectations during the grieving process. Negative experiences with collusion and its consequences were also noted. The COVID-19 pandemic's impact, particularly in limiting access to support, was another significant challenge for many family members. caregiving during illness or loss presents significant challenges, including emotional strain, family issues, and external stressors like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, caregivers often find fulfilment and develop effective coping strategies to manage these difficulties. It is essential to address both the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving, particularly during crises, to support family members throughout their journey.