The socio-economic impact of cervical cancer on patients and their families in Argentina, and its influence on radiotherapy compliance. Results from a cross-sectional study

Gynecol Oncol. 2007 May;105(2):335-40. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2006.12.010. Epub 2007 Jan 26.

Abstract

Objective: We aimed to measure the socio-economic impact of cervical cancer borne by patients and their families in Argentina, and to analyze its influence on radiotherapy compliance.

Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional survey of 120 new cervical cancer patients. We measured impact of disease in 6 domains of family life: employment, income, household budget, education, access to health-care, and child care. Data on compliance with radiotherapy were also collected.

Results: Households of patients reported a reduction in hours worked (45%), work interruption (28%), loss of family income (39%), a reduction in the daily amount of food consumed (37%), delays in paying for essential services such as electricity or telephone (43%), and the sale of property or use of savings (38%). In 28% of households children regularly missed school days. An increased risk of non-compliance with radiotherapy was found in patients from households that lost family income (OR: 3.8, 95% CI 1.5-9.5), or where a member reduced school attendance (OR: 3.6, 95% CI 1.4-9.1).

Conclusions: The socio-economic impact of cervical cancer is considerable and can have negative consequences on treatment compliance. Cervical cancer prevention must be considered a public health priority. Effective social support systems for cancer patients should be implemented.

MeSH terms

  • Argentina
  • Caregivers
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Family
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / economics*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / radiotherapy*