Clinical and Demographic Differences Among Cancer Survivors With Ostomies With and Without Informal Caregivers

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gerontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Informal caregivers play a vital role in the well-being of cancer survivors (CS).
• Significant clinical and demographic variations may exist among CS with ostomies based on caregiver involvement.
• Understanding these differences is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors associated with caregiver status in cancer survivors with ostomies.
• To explore clinical and demographic differences between CS with ostomies based on caregiver status.
• To inform future recommendations and interventions for this population.

Main Methods:

• Secondary analysis of 216 CS with ostomies from a clinical trial.
• Comparison of baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, and survey data (patient activation, self-efficacy, quality of life) based on caregiver status.
• Statistical analyses included chi-squared, t-tests, and logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Most participants (57%) had an identified caregiver.
• CS with caregivers reported higher prevalence of diabetes, heart disease, and mobility issues.
• CS with caregivers also had higher income and education levels, and were more successful in obtaining help when needed.

Conclusions:

• Caregiver status is associated with distinct demographic and clinical profiles in CS with ostomies.
• The higher prevalence of comorbidities and socioeconomic factors in those with caregivers warrants further investigation.
• Interventions promoting social support utilization for CS without ostomy caregivers may enhance their care and quality of life.