The need for information among cancer patients and their caregivers in Colombia

Abstract

Background Cancer is a worldwide concern and a public health issue. Physical symptoms and psychological effects of cancer place a significant burden on the quality of life of cancer patients. Several studies have demonstrated the positive benefits of tailored therapeutic education for cancer patients and their caregivers. Colombian population has important disparities in cultural and educational backgrounds and health care access in cancer patients. The aim of this study is to identify the informational needs of cancer patients and caregivers in Colombia.

Methods We performed a descriptive qualitative study among cancer patients and caregivers at the Hospital Universitario Mayor-Mederi. Between August and November 2019 we conducted 7-focus group discussions with a total of 47-participants to understand the informational needs of the participants in the context of their own oncology diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation in the Colombian health-system. The focus group discussion were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content-analyses technique, identifying the emerging categories by saturation.

Results The most salient themes of informational needs identified were: causes of the disease; continuous information tailored to treatment; treatment goals; adverse effects of treatment; warning signs; self-learning of the disease; nutritional and physical activity recommendations; alternative therapies.

Conclusions This study provides specific types of information that can be incorporated into existing health promotional campaigns in order to address the informational needs of cancer patients and their caregivers.

Key messages Incorporation specific types of information according to local necessities in cancer care can potentially alleviate the stress and burden among cancer patients and their caregivers