A Quantitative Study on Mental Health, Sleep Quality, and Quality of Life among Family Members of Patients With First-Episode Cancer

This study investigated mental health, sleep quality, and quality of life among family members of patients with first-episode cancer. A survey was conducted with 39 family members of patients with cancer, using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC). HADS scores indicated that 17 participants (43.6%) had adjustment and/or major depressive disorders. PSQI scores showed that 16 participants (42.1%) had sleep disturbances. However, CQOLC scores were higher than those in previous studies on families of patients with various stages of cancer. Although families of patients with first-episode cancer may not experience difficulties in their lives, their mental and physical conditions may be impaired. Healthcare providers should focus on the impact on the mental health and sleep needs of patients’ families caused by dealing with a loved one with cancer and offer support.