Psychological Distress, Quality of Life and Supportive Care Needs among Informal Cancer Caregivers.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the impact of psychological distress, quality of life (QoL) and unmet supportive care needs on the burden experienced by cancer caregivers in Oman. Given the limited research in the Omani community, there is a need to explore these factors comprehensively. This study aims to assess the prevalence of psychological distress, QoL and unmet supportive care needs among cancer caregivers while identifying associated factors.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A cross-sectional study involving 144 informal cancer caregivers was conducted. Psychological distress, QoL and unmet supportive care needs were assessed using the depression anxiety stress scales, the Caregiver QOL Index-Cancer and the Supportive Care Needs Survey-Partners and Caregivers Survey, respectively. Interrelationships were examined using hierarchical multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

Caregivers demonstrated significant levels of stress, anxiety and depression, with rates exceeding clinical cut-offs at 77.8%, 68.1% and 71.5% respectively. The mean QoL score was 78.99, with 74.3% scoring between fair and poor QoL. In addition, 86.8% reported experiencing 5 or more unmet care needs, primarily within the psychological/emotional and healthcare domains. There was significant but weak evidence suggesting that gender and patient age might influence anxiety scores, with male caregivers and older cancer patients exhibiting a decreased risk of high anxiety scores among caregivers.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the significant psychological distress, diminished QoL and prevalence of unmet supportive care needs among cancer caregivers in Oman. These findings emphasise the urgent need for tailored support systems to address their specific needs. Implementing initiatives aimed at alleviating the psychological challenges encountered by cancer caregivers is crucial.