"We Don't Do Any of These Things Because We are a Death-Denying Culture": Sociocultural Perspectives of Black and Latinx Cancer Caregivers.

Title"We Don't Do Any of These Things Because We are a Death-Denying Culture": Sociocultural Perspectives of Black and Latinx Cancer Caregivers.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2023
AuthorsNwakasi, CC, Esiaka, D, Nweke, C, de Medeiros, K, Villamar, W, Chidebe, R
JournalRes Sq
Date Published2023 Oct 26
Abstract

This qualitative study explored the unique challenges and experiences faced by Black and Latinx cancer survivors through the lens of their caregivers, including the specific cultural, social, and systemic factors that influence cancer survivorship experience within these communities in the United States. We conducted six focus group discussions (three Latinx and three Black groups) with a total of 33 caregivers of cancer survivors, (Mean age = 63 years). Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis; The sociocultural stress and coping model was used as a framework to interpret the findings. We identified three main themes: 1) families as (un)stressors in survivorship such as the vitality of social connections and families as unintended burden; 2) responses after diagnosis specifically whether to conceal or accept a diagnosis, and 3) experiencing health care barriers including communication gaps, biased prioritizing of care, and issues of power, trust, and need for stewardship. This study's findings align with previous research, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural, familial, and healthcare factors in cancer survivorship experiences within underserved communities. The study reiterates the need for culturally tailored emotional, physical, financial, and informational support for survivors and their caregivers. Also, the study highlights a need to strengthen mental health and coping strategies, to help address psychological distress and improve resilience among survivors and their caregivers.

DOI10.21203/rs.3.rs-3470325/v1
Alternate JournalRes Sq
PubMed ID37961616
PubMed Central IDPMC10635356
Grant ListP20 GM103430 / GM / NIGMS NIH HHS / United States