Are there young carers in oncology? A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review aims to investigate the support children provide in the case of a relative's cancer.

Methods: Searches were performed on four electronic databases (Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and ScienceDirect) to identify studies that report on the support provided by children to a relative diagnosed with cancer. Two researchers independently evaluated the eligibility of the studies and cross-checked them for accuracy. The Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool (CCAT) was used to assess the quality of the studies included.

Results: Out of the 10948 articles screened, 30 were included in this review. Results highlighted that cancer provokes changes in families, such as shifts in roles and increased responsibilities for the youth. Children often provided significant support to their sick relative and family members, including practical, emotional, and medical support such as household duties, medical assistance, companionship, and distraction. However, they were designated as young carers in only one study. The support provided was associated with negative effects such as stress and fatigue, and with positive effects such as increased empathy and independence. Children wished to support their family but also named several needs, such as time for themselves and the opportunity to enjoy their childhood.

Conclusion: The results of this systematic review highlight the importance of taking into account the support provided by young people facing the cancer of a relative and designating them as young carers. Much remains to be accomplished to officially recognize their role and to support them properly.

Keywords: Psycho-Oncology; adolescents; cancer; children; family; parent; sibling; support; systematic review; young carer.