Factors Affecting Quality of Life among Caregivers of Cancer Patients in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India: A Quantitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer impacts not only people living with cancer but also their caregivers. In hospital, caregivers always have pressure on them and their personal and private lives are disrupted during the caring process. Aim: To identify the various factors affecting the Quality Of Life (QOL) among caregivers of cancer patients. Materials and Methods: This quantitative study with an exploratory research design was conducted in oncology Outpatient Department (OPD) of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, India, from November 2019 to February 2020. A total of 256 caregivers of cancer patients, who were visiting various oncology units were included. Data regarding caregiver’s sample characteristics, clinical variables and caregiver’s Oncology Quality of Life questionnaire (CarGOQoL) were collected. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test and Fisher-exact tests were used to study variables. Results: Majority, 94 (37%) belonged to 41-50 years age group, 143 (56%) were females, and 142 (56%) lived in rural areas. Patients’ diagnoses were breast cancer in 94 (37%), Stage-III in 133 (52%), symptoms lasting more than 6-12 months in 103 (40%), and were partial dependent in 172 (67%). A total of 123 (48%) of caregivers scored less in the CarGOQoL questionnaire, so about half of the caregivers had a poor QOL. Caregiver coping (43%) and the private life domain were enormously affected in 193 (37%). Significant relationships with caregivers’ QOL were seen for variables like female gender (p-value=0.037), educational level of patients (p-value=0.018), caregivers with co-morbidities (p-value=0.05), and the number of earning members in the family (p-value=0.022). Conclusion: Care burden always has an impact on the caregiver’s overall QOL. It mainly affected their psychological well-being, burdens, and private lives. Therefore, comprehensive attention should be given to patients as well as caregivers.