Cancer and the family: Variations by sex and race/ethnicity

Abstract

BackgroundCancer affects patients and their families, but few data are available on factors associated with diversity of family structures among patients with cancer. Family is a source of both support and responsibility that must be understood to support patients and their families.MethodsPooled data (2004–2015) from the National Health Interview Study were used to compare characteristics of cancer survivors with and without minor children and differences by sex and race/ethnicity among survivors with minor children.Results13.9% of cancer survivors have minor children in the household, and this experience is more likely for women and people who identify as other than non‐Hispanic White.ConclusionThere are considerable differences by sex and race/ethnicity in the characteristics of cancer survivors with minor children. Clinicians should make consideration of family circumstances a routine part of their history. Doing so will help to identify potential sources of support and responsibility that may affect adherence.