Factors related to health status in mothers of children with cancer

BACKGROUND: Mothers are typically the primary caretakers of children with cancer, and the burden of caring responsibilities may influence their health status. Few studies have previously explored factors related to the health status of mothers with children suffering from cancer. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine factors related to health status in mothers of children with cancer. METHODS: A total of 120 mothers of children with cancer were recruited from two medical centers in southern Taiwan. Associations among demographic data, the Social Support: Personal Resource Questionnaire (PRQ85) part 2, and the Duke Health Profile (DUKE) were examined using one-way ANOVA and stepwise regression. RESULTS: A significant, positive relationship was found between social support and mother health status. Marital status was related to physical health, social health, general health, anxiety, depression, anxiety-depression and total health score. The mother's age and family monthly income were correlated with depression. Stage of child's disease was correlated with mother's mental health, general health, anxiety, depression, anxiety-depression and general health. Mother's social support and stage of child's disease were found to be significant predictors, accounting for 39% of variance in mother's health status. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Clinical staff should be aware that stage of (child's) disease may influence the health status of the mother care-giver. Clinical staff should also further enhance social support to promote the health of mothers with children who have cancer.