Abstract PO3-10-06: Parenting While Living with Cancer - Providing Better Outcomes for Families During the Cancer Journey

Abstract

Abstract For over 20 years, Kesem has been dedicated to supporting children impacted by a parent’s cancer. To better understand the stresses on a family navigating cancer, Kesem completed a several month research program rooted in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and consisting of ethnographic research, quantitative surveys, focus groups, benchmarking, and data analytics. We are using this research to develop a deeper understanding of the personal stories of families impacted by a cancer diagnosis and of the current data from experts in the field. Kesem is sharing our research findings in order for the general oncology space to better serve parents living with cancer. The research included three weeks of ethnographic research completed in rural Mississippi, the Pacific Northwest, and southern Nevada. The research team completed 124 interviews in 18 cities, gathering deep insights about being a parent while living with cancer. The team also reviewed over 30 databases and conducted a survey of approximately 150 parents with cancer. Little has been published about parental cancer in the past decade. Using literature reviews and data such as the 2020 decennial census, we have been able to generate a more accurate assessment of need than ever, confirming earlier estimates that there are approximately five million children in the United States who have a parent with cancer. This means that the average percentage of children under 18 who have experience with parental cancer is between 3.6%–5.5%. The following key takeaways from this research are helpful for all who support patients, including oncologists, nurse navigators, and patient advocates: Based on this research and our ongoing internal survey results, we know that patients generally have less anxiety when they know their children will receive a lifetime of support. Children who are supported are more likely to create a community of support for themselves, do better academically, and have increased mental health. This leads to better outcomes for the entire family. Citation Format: Alicia Kabir. Parenting While Living with Cancer - Providing Better Outcomes for Families During the Cancer Journey [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-10-06.