Psychological Distress among Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients Khartoum State 2020

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of cancer in Sudan, like other world, shows an increasing pattern; consequently, a greater number of people are expected to take the role of principal caregivers in the near future. Hence, it is high time to achieve inclusive knowledge about the outcome of caregiver burden related to the caregiver’s well-being. Materials and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional, observational study aiming to assess psychological distress among the principal family caregivers of cancer patients at oncology public specialized outpatients’ clinics in Khartoum State. Multiple validated and structured questionnaires and a checklist were implemented to collect relevant data related to both cancer patient and family caregiver. Systematic random sample was applied to recruit 143 of cancer patients’ caregivers. Results: Majority of cancer patients were females 56.6% and 32.2% were in the age group (51-65) years. Breast cancer and leukemia were the most frequent types of cancer among participants, with 11.9% each. Regarding family caregiver most of them were females 54.5% with average age was (37.7) years. About half of them were the cancer patient’s child descendants. Concerning psychological distress among family caregivers, depression and anxiety were reported by (53.8%) and (72.7%), respectively. Psychological distress is more prevalent among caregivers with subsequent characteristics: females, younger and middle age, and lower economic status. Conclusion: Findings point to high proportions of elevated psychological distress, among family caregivers of cancer patients. Further, longitudinal studies with qualitative dimensions are recommended. Multidisciplinary arrangements are necessary to meet caregivers’ needs.