Challenges Facing Women Caring for a Spouse Having Cancer Treatment: A Critical Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer affects patients and families, especially female spouses. Female carers are affected emotionally, psychologically, spiritually and physically. Challenges while caring for husbands with cancer include: higher stress; poorer health-related quality of life; emotional strain; impaired immune system; low appetite; high blood pressure; depression and anxiety. Female spousal carers also experience satisfaction that they rendered appropriate care to their spouse. Aim: To analyse challenges facing women caring for a spouse on cancer treatment. Method: Systematic critical literature review through CASP. Thematic analysis of data. Results: 16 studies met the inclusion criteria; 12 were selected by critical analysis. 4 themes emerged: “Quality of marital relationship”, “Effective communication”, “Carers” burden and need for support’, and “Coordination of care among providers”. Discussion: 4 themes are discussed in detail and related to literature outside the review. Conclusion: Women caring for a spouse on cancer treatment is affected by the cancer, symptoms, hospital admission and caring. They withhold information from their spouse to protect him. They have poor quality of life and poor health. HCP rarely recognize their role or needs.