SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF FAMILY MEMBERS OF ONCOLOGY PATIENTS AT THE REGIONAL HOSPITAL OF CÁCERES, MATO GROSSO, 2025

Abstract

Cancer is one of the leading public health problems in Brazil and worldwide, with significant repercussions for the lives of patients and their families. The primary caregiver plays a central role in this context by providing direct care as well as emotional and organizational support. This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic profile of family caregivers of cancer patients treated at the Regional Hospital of Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil, in 2025. This is a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory study involving 21 primary caregivers selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, followed by thematic analysis. Most participants were between 34 and 49 years of age (52%), were female (76%), self-identified as mixed-race (57%), were married (47%), and were self-employed (47%). Regarding place of residence, 28% lived in the municipality of Pontes e Lacerda. The predominant relationship with the patient was that of son or daughter (61%). Most patients were women (80%), diagnosed with breast cancer (35%), followed by metastatic cancer (25%). The majority were undergoing chemotherapy (65%) and had received their diagnosis more than 60 days before the interview (80%). The findings highlight the importance of family caregivers in the oncology care process and emphasize the need for institutional strategies aimed at providing support and promoting the mental health of these family members.