Examining the quality of life in caregivers of patients with urologic cancer: A cross-sectional study in Crete, Greece

Abstract

Purpose: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the Quality of Life of caregivers of patients with urologic cancer and identify key factors influencing their well-being.

Methods: The study involved caregivers of patients with urologic cancers, treated at Venizelio General Hospital of Heraklion. The CareGiver Oncology Quality of Life questionnaire was used to evaluate different QoL domains in relation with demographic and clinical data. Scores were calculated for each domain and transformed to a 0-100 scale.

Results: The sample included 106 caregivers; 86 of them were females (81.1%), with most aged between 56-75 years (44.4%). Care was offered by 65 spouses (61.3%), and 30 patients' children (28.3%). The overall QoL score was 59.7 (± 12.8), with the worst scores being in leisure, psychological well-being, and private life. Female caregivers had inferior psychological well-being (p = 0.035) and private life scores (p = 0.008) compared to males. Younger caregivers had the worst self-esteem scores (p = 0.031), while those with poorer education reported reduced leisure scores (p = 0.015). Financially disadvantaged caregivers scored worse in their relationship with healthcare (p = 0.001), administration and finances (p = 0.015), and self-esteem (p = 0.013). Spousal caregivers had the least private life (p = 0.001) and leisure scores (p = 0.032), and those living with the patient experienced poorer scores in both leisure (p = 0.002) and private life (p = 0.003).

Conclusion: In summary, caregivers of patients with urologic cancer experience substantial QoL challenges. Tailored interventions and policy support are essential to address their complex needs and enhance their overall well-being.

Keywords: Cancer; Caregivers; Health; Life; Oncology; Quality; Urology.