Role and gender differences in cancer-related distress: a comparison of survivor and caregiver self-reports.
OBJECTIVE
To examine role and gender differences on measures of psychological distress as a consequence of dealing with cancer.


METHODS
Cross-sectional, descriptive, quantitative analyses of retrospective survey data.


METHODS
A large, nonprofit, volunteer-based cancer organization. The sample was recruited through an online cancer survivor's network (61%), a rural event (24%), and hospital registries (15%).


METHODS
Convenience sample of 135 cancer survivors matched to their family caregivers (N = 270).


METHODS
Dyads (i.e., survivors and family caregivers) completed matched questionnaires requesting demographic and medical information and measures of cancer-related distress.


METHODS
Role (i.e., survivor or caregiver), gender, and psychological distress.


RESULTS
Caregiver means on overall psychological distress were significantly higher than those shown for survivors. Caregiver scores were significantly higher on distress for diagnosis and fear of cancer recurrence. Females scored higher than male caregivers on cancer-related anxiety, future uncertainties, fear of recurrence, and future diagnostic tests. Gender differences were not found for survivor distress.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest a need for gender-specific, dyad-tailored cancer support services.


CONCLUSIONS
As expert caregivers, nurses can provide valuable assistance with the caregiving process that may decrease distress during the family's cancer experience and adaptation period.
Center for Patient Care and Outcomes Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA. amatthew@mcw.edu
B Alex
BA
Matthews
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D011788:Quality of Life; D017678:Sex Distribution; D015144:Southeastern United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*