PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK AND DISTRESS IN CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH CANCER

Abstract

Family members experience challenging situations in the diagnosis/treatment of childhood cancer. The illness can affect the family adjustment and adherence to the child/adolescent's care, reflecting on routines and relationships (family, marital, work and social). Cancer can reach high levels of distress in caregivers. The aim of this research was to investigate the relationships between indicators of psychosocial risk and distress in caregivers of children/adolescents with cancer. Fourteen caregivers answered the instruments on: socioeconomic characteristics (Brazil Economic Classification Criterion [CCEB]); psychosocial risk assessment (Psychosocial Assessment Tool [PAT 2.0]); and distress (Distress Thermometer). The data were submitted to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. It was found that most families presented a "target" classification of psychosocial risk and distress (e.g., worry, nervousness and pain). Inferential analyses did not confirm the hypothesis of a correlation between the level of distress and the total PAT score. However, positive correlations were observed between the domains of the scales, such as: positive correlation between the level of distress and problems with patients; and between partner distress and sibling problems, caregivers' problems, and caregivers' stress reactions. Negative correlations between physical and emotional distress symptoms and PAT domains were also observed. Caregiver distress may represent limitations to treatment, as it impacts emotional well-being and psychosocial functioning, especially in vulnerable families. Further studies are suggested to consider clinical and sociodemographic characteristics in order to understand the relationships between psychosocial variables involved. The need for systematic psychosocial assessment for pediatric oncology care is reinforced.