CHILDHOOD CANCER: Its Impact and Financial Costs for Australian Families

Abstract

This study evaluated the impact and financial costs of childhood cancer for Australian families by means of a nonrandomized retrospective cross-sectional survey at the oncology department of a large metropolitan pediatric hospital. The Family Impact Scale (a standardized questionnaire) and the self-reported economic burden (a questionnaire on expenses and lifestyle changes) were utilized. Results of the family impact score were compared to a previously published cohort of children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The participants were 56 parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer in the year 2002. In addition to the expected high social and emotional impacts, the majority of families reported suffering from great or moderate economic hardship. Factors predictive for families at risk included single parenthood, lower household income, and greater distance from the hospital. The results show that the distribution of resources is not equitable and is currently failing to negate significant financial stresses for many Australian families.

Cancer Illness in Children and the Socioeconomic Resources of Parents

“…The existing studies are relatively small and are likely to reflect policies and labor markets in particular geographic areas (10;28-35), and only a few utilizes a comparison group (29)(30)(31). Overall, the results from Norway are more positive and suggest lesser declines in earnings than what has been reported previously (10;28;31;33;35), perhaps due to Norway's extensive welfare system.…”

Differentials in Survival for Childhood Cancer in Australia by Remoteness of Residence and Area Disadvantage

“…Major challenges regarding access to diagnostic, treatment, and support services invariably confront cancer patients who come from these isolated areas (26)(27)(28). This may mean extended periods away from home for all or part of the family while medical care for a child with cancer is being sought, causing financial strain as well as the disruption of normal family and social routines (29,30). Such difficulties could in turn have a bearing on survival to an extent that might not be evident in geographic studies within other countries.…”

Inequalities and Barriers to the Use of Health Care among Cancer Patients in the Pacific: A Systematic Review

“…These high costs are concerning due to most Pacific countries falling into the low to middle income country categories. The Journal of Paediatric Hematology found that the burden of cancer treatment costs were centered on out of pocket payments, such as travel, communication and accommodation [24].…”