Background: Based on previous reports of disparities in financial burden following a cancer diagnosis, this study aims to characterize mechanisms of disparities experienced by caregivers of children with cancer, including the impact of work flexibility and social support.
Methods: Cross-sectional survey (in English or Spanish) of caregivers of children with cancer that assessed household material hardship (HMH), financial toxicity, and income change.
Results: Of 156 caregivers surveyed, 32% were Hispanic and 32% were low income. Hispanic caregivers were more likely to report HMH and financial toxicity compared to non-Hispanic White and Asian (HMH: 57% vs. 21% vs. 19%, p < .001; financial toxicity: 73% vs. 52% vs. 53%, p = .07). Low- and middle-income caregivers were more likely to experience HMH and financial toxicity compared to high-income caregivers (HMH: 68% low vs. 38% middle vs. 8.7% high, p < .001; financial toxicity: 81% vs. 68% vs. 44%, p < .001). All income categories demonstrated significant increases in HMH 1 year after diagnosis. Seventeen percent reported more than 40% income loss, more of whom were low income than high income (27% vs. 12%, p = .20). Work flexibility and social support were associated with income and financial toxicity.
Conclusion: HMH, financial toxicity, and income loss are prevalent after a child's cancer diagnosis, suggesting that screening should be incorporated into routine care. This financial burden disproportionately affects low-income and Hispanic caregivers. Further research is needed to elucidate the roles of work flexibility and social support, how safety net services are utilized by families, and how best to support families with HMH.
Keywords: caregivers; financial impact; financial toxicity; pediatric oncology; psychosocial; supportive care.
© 2023 The Authors. Pediatric Blood & Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.