Risk factors associated with adherence to medical oncology treatment in pediatrics

Cecilia Prieto B.*, Gloria Ibarra B., Pablo Guzmán V., Alejandra Werth C., Romina Espinoza O., Roberto Sepúlveda C.

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In Chile, between 450 and 500 cases of cancer are diagnosed annually in children and adolescents. Treatment is financed by the state, but there are non-financial elements that could condition adherence to treatment.

Objective:
to explore family, socioeconomic, housing, and support network risk factors that could affect adherence to medical treatment in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer.

Patients and Method:
Descriptive observational study in pediatric oncology hospitals of a national cancer program. Through a “Social Care Form” applied to 104 caregivers of children and adolescents, between August 2019 and March 2020, socioeconomic data of children diagnosed with cancer were recorded in four dimensions: i) Individual/family/health; ii) Work/education/socioeconomic; iii) Housing/environment; and iv) Participation/support networks.

Results:
99% of the children and adolescents were registered in the public health system; 69% belonged to the lowest income brackets. Care for children and adolescents was mainly provided by the mother (91%). 79% reported living in a house; 48% owned or were paying for their home. Housing quality was described as good (70%), with low levels of overcrowding. 56% of households had access to Wi-Fi internet connection, while 27% reported no access. The main support network reported was the family (84%).

Conclusions:
Family, socioeconomic, housing, and support network risk factors were observed in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer; socioeconomic and gender aspects highlight the social inequalities in these families. Descriptive baseline results were obtained, so it is suggested to re-observe its evolution and thus measure its impact on adherence to treatment.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)144-152
Number of pages9
JournalAndes Pediatrica
Volume94
Issue number2
Early online date20 Jan 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 11 Apr 2023

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Cancer
  • Oncology
  • Tumors
  • Poverty
  • Adherence

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