Depression and anxiety in family caregivers of cancer patient: a cross sectional study in Nepal.

Abstract

Introduction: With the growing incidence of cancer, the role of caregivers has become increasingly critical in ensuring comprehensive patient care. However, the prolonged and sustained nature of caregiving responsibilities can adversely affect the mental health of caregivers. This study aims to explore the prevalence of depression and anxiety among caregivers of cancer patients.

Methods: We enrolled 101 caregivers of cancer patients from a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu in this study and obtained demographic information from the patients and their caregivers. The prevalence of depression and anxiety was assessed by the use of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) score, respectively. We used Chisquare/Fischer's exact test to analyze association between variables.

Results: Out of 101 caregivers, 80 (79.2%) were males and 21(20.8%) were females. Overall, 58.4% had either mild, moderate, or severe anxiety according to GAD-7 scale. Overall, 28.7% had either mild moderate or moderately severe depression according to the PHQ-9. Male gender, relationship with the patient, the patient's ECOG performance score had significant association with higher severity of anxiety. Closer relationships with patients showed higher severity of depression.

Conclusion: Anxiety and depression were considerably present among caregivers of the patient. Interventions aimed at reducing the mental health impact of cancer should focus not only on the patient but also to their caregiver.