Knowledge and attitude towards breast and cervical cancer screening among women caregivers of cancer patients: a cross-sectional study from a tertiary cancer centre in India

Abstract

Female informal caregivers, who provide critical support to cancer patients, may face substantial caregiver burden that may adversely affect their participation in preventive healthcare. We aimed to evaluate their knowledge and attitudes toward breast and cervical cancer screening and its correlation with caregiver burden. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary cancer centre using a structured questionnaire, which assessed demographics, caregiving burden (using the Zarit Burden Interview), health behaviours, and cancer screening practices. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to identify predictors of screening knowledge and attitude. 480 women caregivers were recruited with a median age of 39 years. Most caregivers were married, and over 70% were the patient’s daughters or spouses. 43% provided care to the patient daily, and over 68% were the sole caregiver. Smoking or alcohol use was very low, with the majority never exercising (59%). Awareness of breast and cervical cancer screening methods was 45.2% and 34.2%, respectively, and was significantly higher among educated caregivers. Over 70% were unwilling to screen for both cancers. Caregiver burden was low, with 19% reporting mid to moderate, and only 2.2% having moderate to severe. Higher burden scores were observed among sole caregivers. Significant associations were seen between caregiver burden and breast cancer screening awareness and willingness for cervical cancer screening. Awareness and attitude for breast and cervical cancer among female informal caregivers is low despite low caregiver burden. No clear association between caregiver burden and awareness or attitude toward screening was observed due to the low incidence.