Cancer Screening Patterns and Concerns in Caregivers of Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy

Abstract

This survey of relatively unexplored caregivers identified cancer screening deficiencies and concerns that might be addressed by targeted interventions. With approximately 60% of patients with cancer receiving radiation therapy, advice in the radiation oncology setting could positively affect cancer screening behaviors in caregivers.

A Qualitative Focus Group Study for the Exploration of Knowledge and Attitudes of Informal Caregivers Toward Breast Cancer: Perceptions of Informal Caregivers and Healthcare Professionals in Three European Countries

“…The burden of caregiving has been found to be a negative predictor for BC screening in other studies. 38 , 51 …”

“…The burden of caregiving has been found to be a negative predictor for BC screening in other studies. 38,51 Participants often devalued the BSE procedure because they perceived that the combination of mammography and ultrasound procedures was much more reliable and trustworthy compared to BSE. The devalue of BSE was also found in other studies.…”

“… 35 Studies have emphasized ICGs impaired health behaviors, such as neglecting their own healthcare appointments and non-seeking cancer screening tests compared to non-caregivers. 36 - 38 As nearly two-thirds of ICGs aged over 50 are women, 39 the burden of caregiving raises concerns regarding women’s health including BC screening and overall preventive behaviors.…”

Doctor-Patient Cancer Screening Communications among Church-based Chinese Adults – The Role of Caregiver Experience and Family History

“…However, studies on cancer communication with doctors examining the role of caregivers have been limited, either within the U.S. or overseas. The few existing studies show primary care physicians are not recommending screenings among caregivers at a satisfactory level, and a significant portion of caregivers had at least one or more unanswered screening concerns (Lin et al, 2016).…”