Proximology in a Cancer Care Setting in Burkina Faso: A Study of Cancer Patient Caregivers

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine the role of caregivers of cancer patients at Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, using a proximological approach. We carried out a cross-sectional, observational study of 72 patient/caregiver dyads that included patients followed for at least one month as outpatients for confirmed cancer and their primary caregiver from May-October 2021. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Caregiver Reaction Assessment questionnaire (CRA). Mean scores of the CRA dimensions were compared according to selected patient/caregiver characteristics. In 53% of dyads, the relationship was parent/child. Administrative formalities and emotional support were the main tasks undertaken by the primary caregivers. Strength of the parental bond, living in the same home, and knowledge of the seriousness of the patient’s illness had a significant impact on CRA scores. In our setting, we need to reflect on measures to lighten the burden of the cancer patient’s caregiver.