Psychosocial Burden in Early-Stage Cancer Caregiving: A Study from Idukki District, Kerala

Abstract

Family caregivers of cancer patients are their spouses, adult children, or close relatives; these individuals provide sustained, unpaid care typically without formal training or institutional recognition. This study examines the psychosocial challenges experienced by family caregivers of cancer patients in the early stages in the state of Kerala, India, with a specific focus on Idukki district, a region characterised by high cancer incidence and a predominantly family-based caregiving culture. Employing a quantitative descriptive research design, data were collected from 60 caregivers using a self-structured, 51-item questionnaire aligned with the study’s objectives. Participants were selected through convenience non-probability sampling from both public and private hospital settings. Findings reveal substantial psychosocial burden among caregivers, particularly in the early stages of cancer care: 56.67% identified psychological difficulties as their primary burden, 78.33% reported at least occasional emotional strain, 68.33% experienced significant role changes, and pronounced economic vulnerability was evident, with 73.33% of caregivers classified as Below Poverty Line and 78.33% reporting a monthly household income below ₹20,000 (≈ US$241 or ₱12,792.90). The study concludes that strengthening caregiver-focused interventions through counselling services, respite care, psychoeducation, and community-based support is essential to advancing holistic, equitable, and sustainable cancer care in India.