Differences in Psychological Distress of Cancer and Hemodialysis Caregivers: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study in Lebanon

Abstract

Background: Chronic illnesses, such as cancer and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), impose significant emotional and physical burdens not only on patients but also on their caregivers. Caregivers play a vital role in providing care, often facing psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, while their quality of life (QoL) may deteriorate. This study aims to compare anxiety, depression, and QoL among caregivers of cancer and ESKD patients in Lebanon.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 134 caregivers, including 71 cancer caregivers and 63 hemodialysis caregivers, at the Hôtel Dieu de France University Hospital in Beirut. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the World Health Organization QoL (WHOQoL–BREF) Scale.

Results: Caregivers of hemodialysis patients reported significantly lower QoL scores compared to cancer caregivers (p = 0.0006). Anxiety was prevalent in both groups, with no significant difference in anxiety or depression levels between the two groups. However, caregivers’ educational level (p = 0.01), anxiety scores (p = 0.006), and the patient’s comorbidity count (p = 0.007) significantly predicted QoL. Caregivers with higher education and fewer anxiety symptoms reported better QoL.

Conclusion: Caregivers of ESKD patients experience poorer QoL than cancer caregivers, though both groups suffer from high anxiety and depression. To address these disparities, we emphasize the need for universal healthcare coverage, targeted support programs, and routine caregiver well-being assessments.