Exploring the Social and Financial Impacts of Cervical Cancer on Caregivers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review.

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where limited healthcare infrastructure often shifts caregiving responsibilities to informal companions such as family members, spouses, and friends. The goal of this scoping review is to map and summarize the social and economic impacts of cervical cancer on the caregivers for women diagnosed with cervical cancer in LMICs.

METHODS

Three databases were searched up to March 30, 2026. Studies were included if they were conducted in a LMIC, included caregivers or companions of cervical cancer patients, and reported on social or financial outcomes. Outcomes were categorized into social impacts (psychosocial burden, education, social support, and sexual relationships) and economic impacts (employment and financial security).

RESULTS

Fifteen unique studies from 11 countries were included (11 cross-sectional and 4 qualitative), and caregiver sample sizes ranged from 7 to 360. Caregivers were predominantly middle-aged, with low to moderate educational attainment and income. Up to 72.1% of caregivers experienced high levels of psychosocial burden. Educational disruptions were reported, with up to 28% of households reporting difficulties paying for education and school absences among family members. Social support experiences varied, with most caregivers reporting stable family relationships but some reporting neglect of other family members. Employment was significantly disrupted, with up to 61% of companions reducing working hours and 28% of households having a member stop working entirely. Financial hardship was pervasive: up to 39% of households experienced partial or total income loss, and coping strategies included selling assets, reducing food consumption, and accumulating debt.

CONCLUSION

Cervical cancer inflicts substantial social and financial consequences on caregivers in LMICs, spanning psychosocial distress, educational disruption, employment loss, and financial hardship. These impacts are shaped by gender dynamics and intergenerational caregiving roles. As the global community pursues cervical cancer elimination, policies integrating caregiver support are essential.