Informational and supportive needs of the family caregivers of women with breast cancer in a low resource context: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction . The present study was conducted to assess the needs of family caregivers in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants and methods . Data were collected through purposive sampling from 103 participants and analyzed by the Family Inventory of Needs (FIN) during the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 (between July and September). Results. Informational and supportive needs were high for most caregivers (76%), but they were scored unmet by higher than 30% of the family caregivers in items 8, 9, and 16 of informative dimensions and items 15, 17, and 18 supportive dimension. Also, the illness stage was significantly associated with the score of unmet needs (p = 0.03). Conclusions . Caregivers who live with women need more guidance and support. Considering the information and psycho-social needs of cancer caregivers may increase the satisfaction of health services and help improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of both patients and their caregivers.