Physical and emotional well-being and support in newly diagnosed head and neck cancer patient–caregiver dyads. Issue 6 (2nd November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sterba, Katherine R.; Zapka, Jane; Armeson, Kent E.; Shirai, Keisuke; Buchanan, Amy; Day, Terry A.; Alberg, Anthony J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosocial oncology. Volume 35:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 646
• Page End: 665
• Publication Date: 2017-11-02
• Subjects: dyad -- emotional well-being -- head and neck cancer -- physical well-being -- social support; Cancer -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 362.196994
• DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2017.1323817
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-7332

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to examine the physical and emotional well-being and social support in newly diagnosed head and neck cancer (HNC) patients and caregivers and identify sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral risk factors associated with compromised well-being in patients and caregivers. Newly diagnosed HNC patients and their primary caregivers ( N = 72 dyads) completed questionnaires before treatment assessing physical and mental well-being, depression, cancer worry, and open-ended support questions. Patients reported worse physical well-being than caregivers ( p < 0.05) but similar levels of mental well-being. Caregivers reported providing emotional and instrumental support most frequently with an emphasis on nutrition and assistance with speech, appearance, and addictions. Both patients and their caregivers reported suboptimal mental well-being and depression. Smoking was associated with compromised well-being in patients, caregivers, and dyads. Compromised well-being in patients and their caregivers was more likely when patients were younger, had worse symptoms, and smoked/consumed alcohol ( p < 0.05). While patients face more physical strain than caregivers, both equally confront emotional challenges. Results highlight risk factors for compromised well-being in both patients and their caregivers that should be assessed at diagnosis to guide identification of needed dyadic-focused supportive care resources.