Evaluating the psychosocial determinants of patients and caregivers seeking treatment at a tertiary cancer care center: A clinical study

Abstract

Objective: This clinical study aimed to evaluate the psychosocial determinants influencing patients and caregivers seeking treatment at a tertiary cancer care center. Methods: The study included 175 patients or caregivers (86 males and 88 females) who visited the cancer hospital for checkups or treatment. Data were collected using self-designed questionnaires. The questionnaire assessed psychological and psychosocial issues, including anxiety, sleep, appetite, pain, fatigue, distress, depression, financial issues, family issues, social support, occupational issues, sexual issues, patient satisfaction, mood and thought, and concerns about the future. Statistical analyses, such as independent t-tests, were conducted to compare the differences between demographic factors and psychological and psychosocial issues. Results: The findings revealed that males scored higher on psychological issues, while females scored higher on psychosocial issues. Caregivers reported higher scores on both psychological and psychosocial issues compared to patients. Married patients exhibited higher scores on anxiety, sleep, and appetite compared to unmarried patients. Moreover, individuals with a family history of cancer scored higher on psychological issues, while those without a family history of cancer scored higher on psychosocial issues. Conclusion: The study highlights the significance of addressing psychosocial determinants when patients or their caregivers visit a tertiary cancer care center. Understanding and addressing psychological and psychosocial factors can contribute to better support and treatment for cancer patients and their caregivers.