Exploring the Unmet Needs of Cancer Caregivers in India: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Open accessAbstract
Introduction Caregivers of individuals with head, neck, and face cancer play a pivotal role in providing support, yet they face distinct challenges. This study aims to explore caregiving experiences and consequences among this population. Methods A multicentric cross-sectional study involving 200 caregivers using a convenience sampling method was conducted in Pune. Caregivers involved in patient care were included in head, neck, and face cancer. The Cancer Caregiving Consequences Inventory (CaTCoN) questionnaire was utilized to assess various dimensions of caregiving. Ethical clearance was obtained from institutional review boards. Results The demographic profile revealed that 89% of caregivers were spouses/partners, primarily females (77%), aged 25-40 (81.5%), and urban dwellers (68.5%). Caregivers were predominantly married or cohabiting (100%) and had children (95%). Most had a graduate-level education (97.5%) and were employed full-time (82.5%). The mean scores from the CaTCoN questionnaire highlighted substantial caregiving responsibilities, with significant associations found in multivariate regression analysis. Spouses/partners showed stronger correlations with increased workload, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and the need to maintain an everyday life. Conclusion This study comprehensively explains caregiving consequences among head, neck, and face cancer cases. The predominance of spouses/partners as caregivers emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address their unique challenges. The study highlights the demanding nature of caregiving, with potential positive outcomes.
AI snapshot
Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
This cross-sectional survey of 200 caregivers of head, neck, and face cancer patients in Pune found a predominantly female, spousal caregiver population with substantial caregiving responsibilities, stress, and financial difficulties, alongside some positive changes. Female and spousal caregivers showed stronger associations with greater workload, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and the need to maintain everyday life.
Key findings
- Caregivers were mostly spouses/partners (89%), female (77%), aged 25–40 (81.5%), married/cohabiting (100%), with children (95%), urban residents (68.5%), graduate-level educated (97.5%), and employed full-time (82.5%).
- CaTCoN results showed 68% provided much practical assistance (mean 71.9±21.34), 42% provided a lot of psychological support (mean 78.8±23.4), 49% provided no personal care, 80% felt too much responsibility for home care, 87% spent a lot of time transporting patients for therapy, and 73% reported stress (mean 63.4±12.34).
- Financial difficulties were prevalent: 90% reported adverse financial situations and 84% needed financial counseling; only 10% required a psychologist. Also, 60% felt a high need to lead a “normal” life, but only 10% felt they could achieve it to a high degree.
- Multivariate regression analysis found female caregivers and spouses/partners had stronger associations with increased workload, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and the need to balance everyday life; spouses/partners were significantly associated with specific questionnaire items (3, 4, 6, and 40).
Methods
- Cross-sectional study conducted August–December 2023 in Pune; the study anticipated 384 caregivers assuming 50% prevalence, but data from only 200 caregivers were acquired due to non-participation and incomplete questionnaire submissions. Inclusion criteria were adults aged 18+ actively caring for individuals diagnosed and treated for head, neck, and face cancers within the preceding year and residing within city limits; exclusions included unwillingness, language/cognitive barriers, current mental health treatment, or acute distress.
- The Cancer Caregiving Consequences Inventory (CaTCoN) questionnaire was translated into the local language, written informed consent was obtained, data were entered into Microsoft Excel 2019, and SPSS 24.0 was used for statistical analysis, primarily multivariate techniques, with significance set at p < 0.05.
- The text is inconsistent about sampling and setting: the abstract says “multicentric” and “convenience sampling,” while the methods state the study was conducted at a single palliative care center in Pune, and the limitations refer to “snowball sampling.”
Limitations
- The paper states: snowball sampling may introduce bias and limit generalizability; the sample may not be representative; and caregivers may present experiences conforming to social expectations, leading to social desirability bias.
- Evident from the text: the abstract and methods disagree on multicentric versus single-center design and on convenience versus snowball sampling; only 200 of the planned 384 caregivers were included.
- The paper notes few children as primary caregivers, so their specific details could not be highlighted, and it explored only heterosexual couples, leaving a gap in understanding same-sex partners’ experiences.
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
Integrity signals
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Cites
Statistics
Claims the paper makes
13 of 19 cited sources checked · 7 supported · 0 flagged · accuracy not yet measured
- Findingown data
84% of caregivers needed financial counseling.
“84% needing financial counseling”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Most caregivers were female (77%).
“predominantly female (77%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The study did not find discrimination against female caregivers.
“Though such discrimination did not emerge in our findings”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The study did not find caregivers reporting needing more information from healthcare professionals.
“In the present study, we did not come across caregivers reporting needing more information from healthcare professionals.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
49% of caregivers provided no personal care.
“49% provided no personal care”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
- Findingown data
The mean score for practical assistance was 71.9±21.34.
“with a mean score of 71.9±21.34”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
87% of caregivers frequently transported patients for therapy.
“frequent transportation for therapy (87%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Spouses/partners were significantly associated with questionnaire items 3, 4, 6, and 40.
“Spouses/partners were significantly associated with specific questionnaire items (3, 4, 6, and 40)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
73% of caregivers reported significant stress due to caregiving.
“significant stress (73%) due to caregiving”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
10% of caregivers required psychological support.
“Only 10% required psychological support.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
80% of caregivers reported high responsibility for home care.
“high responsibility for home care (80%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Positive outcomes such as increased awareness and positive changes were predominantly observed among female spouses.
“these challenges bring positive outcomes, such as increased awareness and positive changes, predominantly among female spouses [21].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [21] Li QP, Mak YW, Loke AY. Spouses' experience of caregiving for cancer patients: a literature review. Int Nurs Rev. 2013, 60:178-87. 10.1111/inr.12000 source
- Findingown data
The mean score for stress was 63.4±12.34.
“mean scores reflecting substantial stress and impact on physical health (63.4±12.34 and 22.5±14.28, respectively)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
90% of caregivers bore adverse economic situations.
“90% bearing adverse economic situations”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The mean score for impact on physical health was 22.5±14.28.
“mean scores reflecting substantial stress and impact on physical health (63.4±12.34 and 22.5±14.28, respectively)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
68% of caregivers provided much practical assistance.
“68% of caregivers provided much practical assistance”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Most caregivers were spouses/partners (89%).
“most caregivers were spouses (89%)”
- Also stated in: § Abstract · plain
“89% of caregivers were spouses/partners”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Also stated in: § Abstract · plain
- Findingown data
60% of caregivers expressed a high degree of need to maintain a 'normal' life.
“60% expressing a high degree of this need”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
10% of caregivers felt they could achieve a 'normal' life to a high degree.
“only 10% felt they could achieve it to a high degree”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
42% of caregivers provided a lot of psychological support.
“42% providing a lot”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
Spousal caregivers experience a unique set of challenges and responsibilities compared to those caring for children.
“indicating a unique set of challenges and responsibilities experienced by spousal caregivers compared to those caring for children”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Study design and conductreasoning
The sample may not be representative, potentially skewing overall conclusions.
“The sample may not be representative, potentially skewing overall conclusions.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 31
- May combine two claims. 13
- The quote only partly states this claim. 1
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationProlonged survival of cancer patients means there is a need for continued tailored supportive care.
“prolonged survival means there is a need for continued tailored supportive care [9].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [9] Hart NH, Crawford-Williams F, Crichton M, et al.. Unmet supportive care needs of people with advanced cancer and their caregivers: a systematic scoping review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2022, 176:103728. 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103728 source
The Abstract reports unmet supportive care needs in adults with advanced cancer and says its findings can inform targeted interventions. It does not link those needs to prolonged survival or specify that care must continue over time. (LLM, conf=0.85)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe review by Mbozi reported that female caregivers were neglected, not communicated about the diagnosis, and showed little to no empathy.
“The review by Mbozi reported that the female caregivers were neglected, not communicated about the diagnosis, and overall showed little to no empathy [19].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [19] Mbozi P, Ratcliff C, Roberts D. Challenges facing women caring for a spouse having cancer treatment: a critical literature review. Open J Nurs. 2020, 10:34-68. 10.4236/ojn.2020.101003 source
The review’s “Communication within couples” summary says healthcare personnel tend to ignore female carers and inform only patients, supporting the neglect and lack-of-information claims. The “Communication barriers” section also describes information being given without adequate empathy. It does not say that female caregivers themselves showed little or no empathy; that reverses who was displaying empathy toward whom. (LLM, conf=0.85)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationA significant gap exists in understanding what same-sex partners undergo.
“a significant gap exists in understanding what same-sex partners undergo”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [22] Tan KR, Waters AR, Chen Q, Hendricks BA, Coombs LA, Kent EE. Inequities among cancer caregivers with diverse identities: a review of the literature and future directions. Curr Oncol Rep. 2023, 25:803-12. 10.1007/s11912-023-01415-3 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).
PremisecitationSame-sex partners' coping mechanisms are the same as heterosexual couples, especially in a conservative society like India.
“Their coping mechanisms are the same, especially in a more conservative society like India [22].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [22] Tan KR, Waters AR, Chen Q, Hendricks BA, Coombs LA, Kent EE. Inequities among cancer caregivers with diverse identities: a review of the literature and future directions. Curr Oncol Rep. 2023, 25:803-12. 10.1007/s11912-023-01415-3 source
The Introduction’s LGBTQ+ community section says caregivers perform similar caregiving tasks, but it does not compare same-sex and heterosexual couples’ coping mechanisms. Searches for coping mechanisms and India found no passage addressing whether those mechanisms are the same, particularly in India. (LLM, conf=0.76)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationApproximately one-third of caregivers utilize support services, with factors like depressive symptoms, anxiety, preparedness, minority status, shorter caregiving duration, and higher stress burden influencing interest.
“studies show approximately one-third of utilization, with factors like depressive symptoms, anxiety, preparedness, minority status, shorter caregiving duration, and higher stress burden influencing interest in such services [6].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [6] Dionne-Odom JN, Applebaum AJ, Ornstein KA, et al.. Participation and interest in support services among family caregivers of older adults with cancer. Psycho-Onco. 2018, 27:969-76. 10.1002/pon.4603 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationSimilar findings were reported across several other recent studies from the West.
“Similar findings were also reported across several other recent studies from the West [15-18].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim3 of 4 sources checked- cites [15] Zavagli V, Raccichini M, Ostan R, Ercolani G, Franchini L, Varani S, Pannuti R. Identifying the prevalence of unmet supportive care needs among family caregivers of cancer patients: an Italian investigation on home palliative care setting. Support Care Cancer. 2022, 30:3451-61. 10.1007/s00520-021-06655-2 source
- cites [16] Ullrich A, Ascherfeld L, Marx G, Bokemeyer C, Bergelt C, Oechsle K. Quality of life, psychological burden, needs, and satisfaction during specialized inpatient palliative care in family caregivers of advanced cancer patients. BMC Palliat Care. 2017, 16:31. 10.1186/s12904-017-0206-z source
- cites [17] Ullrich A, Marx G, Bergelt C, et al.. Supportive care needs and service use during palliative care in family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer: a prospective longitudinal study. Support Care Cancer. 2021, 29:1303-15. 10.1007/s00520-020-05565-z source
The Results section reports findings on family caregivers’ supportive-care needs and use of support services, so this paper is a relevant recent study. The citing sentence does not specify which findings are ‘similar,’ and this source alone cannot establish that comparison or substantiate the other studies in the citation group. (LLM, conf=0.72)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured - cites [18] Zavagli V, Raccichini M, Ercolani G, Franchini L, Varani S, Pannuti R. Care for carers: an investigation on family caregivers’ needs, tasks, and experiences. Transl Med UniSa. 2019, 19:54-9. source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationSpecific individuals are reluctant to display joy, fearing family members might misinterpret their happiness.
“Specific individuals are reluctant to display joy, fearing their family members might misinterpret their happiness [20].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [20] Sercekus P, Besen DB, Gunusen NP, Edeer AD. Experiences of family caregivers of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2014, 15:5063-9. 10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.12.5063 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationA three-year study by Moser et al. reported distress being prevalent even after a long time, though severity may have decreased among spouses.
“A three-year study by Moser et al. reported distress being prevalent even after a long time, though possibly the severity levels may have decreased among the spouses [14].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [14] Moser MT, Künzler A, Nussbeck F, Bargetzi M, Znoj HJ. Higher emotional distress in female partners of cancer patients: prevalence and patient-partner interdependencies in a 3-year cohort. Psycho-Onco. 2013, 22:2693-701. 10.1002/pon.3331 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationCaregiver needs fall into social, cognitive, and psychological categories.
“These needs fall into social, cognitive, and psychological categories [2].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [2] Halkett GK, Lobb EA, Shaw T, Sinclair MM, Miller L, Hovey E, Nowak AK. Do carer's levels of unmet needs change over time when caring for patients diagnosed with high-grade glioma and how are these needs correlated with distress?. Support Care Cancer. 2018, 26:275-86. 10.1007/s00520-017-3846-x source
The Carer needs section describes work and social needs, psychological and emotional needs, and needs related to patients’ cognitive changes. It does not classify caregiver needs into the three categories stated: the supportive-care scale has four domains, and cognitive changes appear as an item in a separate brain-tumor-specific scale. No page number is available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.85)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationInformal sources like family and friends are more commonly used by caregivers, while professional sources are least utilized and perceived as less helpful.
“informal sources like family and friends are more commonly used by caregivers, with professional sources being the least utilized and perceived as less helpful [7].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [7] Aoun SM, Breen LJ, White I, Rumbold B, Kellehear A. What sources of bereavement support are perceived helpful by bereaved people and why? Empirical evidence for the compassionate communities approach. Palliat Med. 2018, 32:1378-88. 10.1177/0269216318774995 source
The Results (Perceived helpfulness; page not provided) say informal sources such as family and friends were used most often, while professional sources were used least often and had the highest proportions of perceived unhelpfulness. The Methods (Participants and procedures; page not provided) describe respondents as bereaved people, not specifically caregivers, so the claim's population is narrower than the study's. (LLM, conf=0.87)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationA recent review highlighted prevalent information needs among informal caregivers, covering illness, treatment, and care-related information.
“A recent review highlighted prevalent needs among informal caregivers, focusing on information needs covering illness, treatment, and care-related information [1].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked- cites [1] Wang T, Molassiotis A, Chung BP, Tan JY. Unmet care needs of advanced cancer patients and their informal caregivers: a systematic review. BMC Palliat Care. 2018, 17:96. 10.1186/s12904-018-0346-9 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data97.5% of caregivers had a graduate-level education.
“had a graduate-level education (97.5%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe mean score for psychological support was 78.8±23.4, the highest among CaTCoN domains.
“resulting in the highest mean score of 78.8±23.4”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data82.5% of caregivers were employed full-time.
“82.5% were employed full-time”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data68.5% of caregivers resided in urban areas.
“Most resided in urban areas (68.5%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn multivariate regression, female caregivers and spouses/partners were significantly associated with greater workloads, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and need to balance everyday life.
“Multivariate regression analysis highlighted that female caregivers and spouses faced greater workloads, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and the necessity to balance everyday life.”
- Also stated in: § Discussion · boosted
“Notably, females and spouses/partners showed a strong correlation with increased workload, personal growth challenges, financial difficulties, and the need to maintain an everyday life.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Also stated in: § Discussion · boosted
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data58.5% of caregivers were salaried.
“Professionally, 58.5% were salaried”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataAll caregivers were married or cohabiting (100%).
“All caregivers were married or cohabiting”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data95% of caregivers had children.
“95% had children”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data81.5% of caregivers were aged 25-40 years.
“with 81.5% aged between 25-40 years”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationFactors like lack of training, low support availability, discrepancies between caregiver and patient reports, and challenges in managing medical and non-medical care activities contribute to increased burden.
“Factors like lack of training, low support availability, discrepancies between caregiver and patient reports, and challenges in managing medical and non-medical care activities contribute to increased burden [5].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [5] Halpern MT, Fiero MH, Bell ML. Impact of caregiver activities and social supports on multidimensional caregiver burden: analyses from nationally-representative surveys of cancer patients and their caregivers. Qual Life Res. 2017, 26:1587-95. 10.1007/s11136-017-1505-9 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningThe study contributes valuable insights to the existing literature on caregiver experiences.
“It contributes valuable insights to the existing literature on caregiver experiences”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenEthical clearance was obtained from the Ethics Committee Maharashtra Education Society, Azam Campus (letter 38/EC2023) before the commencement of the study.
“Ethical clearance was meticulously obtained from the Ethics Committee Maharashtra Education Society, Azam Campus (letter 38/EC2023) before the commencement of the study”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThe demanding nature of caregiving and positive outcomes highlight the complex nature of the caregiver role.
“Despite specific challenges, positive experiences were noted, highlighting the complex nature of the caregiver role.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductown dataThe sub-group of children as primary caregivers was few in the present study, so specific details related to this group could not be highlighted to a large extent.
“the sub-group of children as primary caregivers were few in the present study. Hence, we could not highlight the specific details related to this group to a large extent.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenWritten informed consent was obtained from all study participants before data collection.
“Before data collection, written informed consent was obtained from all study participants.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningThe study relies on snowball sampling, which can introduce bias and limit the generalizability of the results to a broader population.
“The study relies on snowball sampling, which can introduce bias and limit the generalizability of the results to a broader population.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationA high number of unmet needs correlate with psychological distress and overall caregiver burden.
“A high number of unmet needs correlate with psychological distress and overall caregiver burden [4].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [4] Schrank B, Ebert-Vogel A, Amering M, et al.. Gender differences in caregiver burden and its determinants in family members of terminally ill cancer patients. Psycho-Onco. 2016, 25:808-14. 10.1002/pon.4005 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe total number of caregiver needs appears consistent over time, while specific needs evolve.
“The total number of needs appears consistent over time, while specific needs evolve”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [3] Scaratti C, Leonardi M, Saladino A, et al.. Needs of neuro-oncological patients and their caregivers during the hospitalization and after discharge: results from a longitudinal study. Support Care Cancer. 2017, 25:2137-45. 10.1007/s00520-017-3619-6 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenThe study explored only heterosexual couples.
“While we explored only heterosexual couples in the present study”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductown dataThe study fell short of its anticipated sample size of 384 caregivers, obtaining data from only 200 caregivers due to non-participation and incomplete questionnaire submissions.
“the study anticipated a sample size of 384 caregivers, assuming a 50% prevalence rate, to ensure robust statistical analysis. However, data from only 200 caregivers were acquired due to non-participation and incomplete questionnaire submissions.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningThe study findings underscore the necessity for a holistic and inclusive approach to cancer care.
“The study findings underscore the necessity for a holistic and inclusive approach to cancer care”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim. The quote only partly states this claim.
Interpretationown dataThe study provides a comprehensive understanding of caregiving responsibilities and consequences among head, neck, and face cancer cases.
“This study provides a comprehensive understanding of caregiving responsibilities and the nuanced consequences of caregiving.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationSystematic review shows that spousal interventions positively affect cancer care and improve patient and caregiver quality of life.
“Systematic review shows that spousal interventions positively affect cancer care and help improve the patient's and caregiver's quality of life [12].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [12] Li Q, Loke AY. A systematic review of spousal couple-based intervention studies for couples coping with cancer: direction for the development of interventions. Psycho-Onco. 2014, 23:731-9. 10.1002/pon.3535 source
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).
Study design and conductnone givenCaregivers may present their experiences in a way that conforms to social expectations, leading to social desirability bias.
“Caregivers may present their experiences in a way that conforms to social expectations, leading to social desirability bias.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
The paper relies on this without support.
The local-language translation of the CaTCoN questionnaire is equivalent to the original and valid for the study population.
“The Cancer Caregiving Consequences Inventory (CaTCoN) questionnaire was used in the study [8]. It was translated into the local language before administration.”
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
Profession counts exceed the study sample
MinorThe three profession categories total 234 caregivers, although the study reports 200 caregivers. Their percentages likewise total 117% rather than 100%.
Reported 200 · recomputed 234
“| Profession | | | | Self-employed | 40 | 20 | | Salaried | 117 | 58.5 | | Un-skilled worker | 77 | 38.5 |”
Psychological-support response percentages are incomplete
MinorThe listed psychological-support responses total 97%, leaving 3% unaccounted for despite a 0% entry for the unknown/not-relevant response.
Reported 100 · recomputed 97
“| Psychological support | 3 | 20 | 32 | 42 | 0 | 78.8±23.4 |”
Personal-care response percentages are incomplete
MinorThe listed personal-care responses total 95%, leaving 5% unaccounted for despite a 0% entry for the unknown/not-relevant response.
Reported 100 · recomputed 95
“| Personal care | 49 | 26 | 12 | 8 | 0 | 67.8±24.5 |”
Increased-awareness response percentages are incomplete
MinorThe listed responses for increased awareness total 96%, leaving 4% unaccounted for despite a 0% entry for the unknown/not-relevant response.
Reported 100 · recomputed 96
“| Increased awareness of the essential things in life | 4 | 22 | 40 | 30 | 0 | 26.4±24.3 |”
Study described as both multicentric and single-center
MinorThe abstract calls the study multicentric, but the methods state that it was conducted at a single palliative care center.
“A multicentric cross-sectional study involving 200 caregivers using a convenience sampling method was conducted in Pune.”
“The study was conducted at a single palliative care center in Pune.”
Cites
Unmet care needs of advanced cancer patients and their informal caregivers: a systematic review
Wang, T., Molassiotis, A., Chung, B. P. M., & Tan, J.-Y. (2018) · BMC Palliative Care · doi:10.1186/s12904-018-0346-9 · Cited by 672 · see citing works
Palliative care for family caregivers
Alam, S., Hannon, B., & Zimmermann, C. (2020) · Journal of Clinical Oncology · doi:10.1200/jco.19.00018 · Cited by 292 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Negative consequences, such as stress, highlight the demanding nature of caregiving, potentially jeopardizing caregivers' well-being [13].”
BackgroundHart, N. H., Crawford-Williams, F., Crichton, M., Yee, J., Smith, T. J., Koczwara, B., Fitch, M. I., Crawford, G. B., Mukhopadhyay, S., Mahony, J., et al. (2022) · Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology · doi:10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103728 · Cited by 270 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Thus, prolonged survival means there is a need for continued tailored supportive care [9].”
BackgroundUllrich, A., Ascherfeld, L., Marx, G., Bokemeyer, C., Bergelt, C., & Oechsle, K. (2017) · BMC Palliative Care · doi:10.1186/s12904-017-0206-z · Cited by 215 · see citing works
Spouses' experience of caregiving for cancer patients: a literature review
Li, Q. P., Mak, Y. W., & Loke, A. Y. (2013) · International Nursing Review · doi:10.1111/inr.12000 · Cited by 209 · see citing works
Aoun, S. M., Breen, L. J., White, I., Rumbold, B., & Kellehear, A. (2018) · Palliative Medicine · doi:10.1177/0269216318774995 · Cited by 180 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Surprisingly, informal sources like family and friends are more commonly used by caregivers, with professional sources being the least utilized and perceived as less helpful [7].”
BackgroundLi, Q., & Loke, A. Y. (2014) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.3535 · Cited by 152 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Systematic review shows that spousal interventions positively affect cancer care and help improve the patient's and caregiver's quality of life [12].”
BackgroundSchrank, B., Ebert‐Vogel, A., Amering, M., Masel, E. K., Neubauer, M., Watzke, H., Zehetmayer, S., & Schur, S. (2016) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.4005 · Cited by 143 · cited 1× · see citing works
“A high number of unmet needs correlate with psychological distress and overall caregiver burden [4].”
BackgroundLund, L., Ross, L., Petersen, M. A., & Grøenvold, M. (2014) · BMC Cancer · doi:10.1186/1471-2407-14-541 · Cited by 131 · cited 1× · see citing works
“The caregiver population in this study predominantly comprises primary caregivers, with spouses/partners being the primary relationship to the patient [10,11].”
BackgroundHalkett, G. K. B., Lobb, E. A., Shaw, T., Sinclair, M. M., Miller, L., Hovey, E., & Nowak, A. K. (2018) · Supportive Care in Cancer · doi:10.1007/s00520-017-3846-x · Cited by 81 · see citing works
Ullrich, A., Marx, G., Bergelt, C., Benze, G., Zhang, Y., Wowretzko, F., Heine, J., Dickel, L.-M., Nauck, F., Bokemeyer, C., et al. (2021) · Supportive Care in Cancer · doi:10.1007/s00520-020-05565-z · Cited by 77 · see citing works
Moser, M. T., Künzler, A., Nussbeck, F., Bargetzi, M., & Znoj, H. J. (2013) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.3331 · Cited by 71 · cited 1× · see citing works
“A three-year study by Moser et al. reported distress being prevalent even after a long time, though possibly the severity levels may have decreased among the spouses [14].”
BackgroundExperiences of Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy
Sercekus, P., Besen, D. B., Gunusen, N. P., & Edeer, A. D. (2014) · Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention · doi:10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.12.5063 · Cited by 63 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Specific individuals are reluctant to display joy, fearing their family members might misinterpret their happiness [20].”
BackgroundParticipation and interest in support services among family caregivers of older adults with cancer
Dionne‐Odom, J. N., Applebaum, A. J., Ornstein, K. A., Azuero, A., Warren, P. P., Taylor, R. A., Rocque, G. B., Kvale, E. A., Demark‐Wahnefried, W., Pisu, M., et al. (2018) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.4603 · Cited by 62 · see citing works
Halpern, M. T., Fiero, M. H., & Bell, M. L. (2017) · Quality of Life Research · doi:10.1007/s11136-017-1505-9 · Cited by 53 · see citing works
Tan, K. R., Waters, A. R., Chen, Q., Hendricks, B. A., Coombs, L. A., & Kent, E. E. (2023) · Current Oncology Reports · doi:10.1007/s11912-023-01415-3 · Cited by 40 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Their coping mechanisms are the same, especially in a more conservative society like India [22].”
BackgroundCare for carers: an investigation on family caregivers' needs, tasks, and experiences
Zavagli, V., Raccichini, M., Ercolani, G., Franchini, L., Varani, S., & Pannuti, R. (2019) · Universita' degli Studi di Salerno · doi:10.14273/unisa-2723 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
Lund, L., Ross, L., Petersen, M. A., & Grøenvold, M. (2014) · Acta Oncologica · doi:10.3109/0284186x.2014.888496 · Cited by 25 · cited 1× · see citing works
“The Cancer Caregiving Consequences Inventory (CaTCoN) questionnaire was used in the study [8].”
MethodZavagli, V., Raccichini, M., Ostan, R., Ercolani, G., Franchini, L., Varani, S., & Pannuti, R. (2022) · Supportive Care in Cancer · doi:10.1007/s00520-021-06655-2 · Cited by 24 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Similar findings were also reported across several other recent studies from the West [15-18].”
ResultThe experience of spousal caregivers of patients recently diagnosed with cancer in Taiwan
Huang, Y., Wang, S., Chen, S., Hsu, W.-Y., & Chang, M. (2018) · Collegian Journal of the Royal College of Nursing Australia · doi:10.1016/j.colegn.2018.12.005 · Cited by 16 · see citing works
Scaratti, C., Leonardi, M., Saladino, A., Anghileri, E., Broggi, M., Lamperti, E., Fariselli, L., Ayadi, R., Tringali, G., & Schiavolin, S. (2017) · Supportive Care in Cancer · doi:10.1007/s00520-017-3619-6 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Challenges Facing Women Caring for a Spouse Having Cancer Treatment: A Critical Literature Review
Mbozi, P., Ratcliff, C., & Roberts, D. (2020) · Open Journal of Nursing · doi:10.4236/ojn.2020.101003 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
Flagged first, then by citations
Cited by
Sorted by citations
Family Caregiving in Cancer Care in Togo: Tasks, Consequences, and Unmet Needs
Adani-Ifè, A., Apélété, A., Doléagbenou, A. K., & Djibril, M. A. (2025) · Journal of Cancer Therapy · doi:10.4236/jct.2025.1610027
Chilakamarri, S., Prakash, A., & Natarajan, A. (2025) · Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery · doi:10.1007/s12070-025-06254-1
Olickal, J. J., Neelamana, S. K., Sreedharan, S., Rengan, S., Thankappan, K. R., & Pavithran, K. (2026) · Frontiers in Public Health · doi:10.3389/fpubh.2025.1734144
“Likewise, Muralidharan et al. (15) found that 89% of caregivers in Pune reported financial stress, emotional exhaustion, and time burden, especially among spouses balancing employment with caregiving.”
- Authors
- Muralidharan, S., Sikalgar, F. R., B, D., Nikalje, M. R., Subramaniam, T., & Kumar, M.
- Affiliations
- Z.V.M.Unani Medical College & Hospital (IN)
- Corresponding author
- Muralidharan, Shrikanth
- Venue
- Cureus
- Published
- 2024-06-11
- Volume
- 16
- Issue
- 6
- Pages
- e62159-e62159
- ISSN
- 2168-8184 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC11167582
- OpenAlex
- W4399539510
- Semantic Scholar
- 56b1a4eab20acb5c6dccfb9ac4a91c6db90da949
- Cited by
- 3
- References
- 22
- Citations by year
- 2026: 1 · 2025: 2
- FWCI
- 1.94
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- diamond
- dx.doi.org
- Licence
- cc-by
- Locations
- Cureus (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- PubMed Central (submittedVersion, cc-by)
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Health Professions › Pharmacy › Nursing care and research
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Oncology › Cancer survivorship and care
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Family Caregiving in Mental Illness
- Keywords
- cancer caregivers, head and neck cancer, caregiver burden, caregiver workload, financial hardship, personal growth, India
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-14.
Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-14.
Cited sources are checked by gpt-6-sol.
Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.
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