A STUDY ON THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN POVERTY, DEMOGRAPHICS, FAMILY SUPPORT, AND CANCER CARE IN JHARKHAND, INDIA.

Ahmad, Imteyaz; Gadiraju, Padmaja; Singh, Punam; Dehury, Ranjit Kumar; Vanlalhruaii, C.; Alam, MD Tabrez; Dehury, Parthsarathi

OBJECTIVE: The complex relationship between cancer care and poverty was examined in this paper. The study identified the association of various demographic factors with cancer care. The study also analyses the family's role and the support network in cancer care. METHODOLOGY: The study employed a mixed-method approach to understand cancer care in Jharkhand, India comprehensively. The study was conducted as a cross-sectional survey with 204 reproductive cancer patients. A structured interview schedule covered the socio-demographic variables and cancer care facilities. The study also used case study methods with three eligible adults who underwent or were currently undergoing cancer treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the study findings. The narratives of each case study construct a comprehensive understanding of each patient's journey with cancer care. The study has received ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the cancer hospital. RESULTS: The survey results show that 47% of the respondents access treatment. Only 12.7% of respondents had taken the HPV vaccine, and 44.6% got physiotherapy during the treatment. Forty-four percent of respondents accessed counselling services from health services providers. Respondents' characteristics, such as age and gender, were strongly associated with access to counselling services. Education and family income were statistically associated with access to cancer care treatment. Only 7.4% of respondents arranged transport for treatment, and 11.8% arranged logistics and various treatment therapy for cancer care. Cancer patients from Jharkhand frequently face discrimination in receiving health care due to their economic condition. The case study perceived the differences in wealth, social class and family role in cancer care. As a result, cancer patients often feel hopeless and isolated, leading to depression and anxiety. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATION: Poverty plays a negative role in providing and accessing cancer care in the state of Jharkhand. The role of family and society is essential for a cancer survivor. Psychological support from the family gives hope to life of the cancer patients. In addressing the complex relationship between financial burden and cancer care, both government agencies and the social structures must implement comprehensive strategies.

JHARKHAND (India); INDIA; DISCRIMINATION in medical care; FAMILY support; CANCER treatment; INCOME; HUMAN papillomavirus vaccines; CANCER education

Asia Pacific Journal of Health Management, 2024, Vol 19, Issue 2, p1

1833-3818

Academic Journal

10.24083/apjhm.v19i2.3897