Oncological patients main caregiver quality of life and burden in different treatment stages

Abstract

Aim: Evaluate the quality of life (QoL), burden and distress of cancer patients’ caregivers in three stages of cancer treatment.

Methods: Analytical study of 90 caregivers of patients in curative treatment, palliative chemotherapy and symptomatic. Scales used: Zarit Burden Interview, Caregiver QoL Index – Cancer (CQOLC) Scale and Distress Thermometer.

Results: Caregiver profile: women, median age 45,5 years, spouse/daughter. Increase in burden and distress levels, and lower QoL as treatment progresses. Burden was moderate, QoL lower than reported in other studies and distress high, with a large component of emotional problems and physical problems in caregivers of patients in symptomatic treatment.

Conclusion: Regular assessment of caregiver should be included in the treatment plan of the patient since the beginning of treatment.