The prevalence of financial toxicity (FT) among cancer patients from different income levels is not extensively documented. A recent study attempted to bridge this gap by focusing on the incidence of both objective and subjective FT concerning cancer treatment.
To collate relevant data, databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and CINAHL were searched. The study did not impose any restrictions on the design or setting of the studies it included. A random-effects meta-analysis was utilized to obtain the pooled prevalence of objective FT. This systematic review examined financial toxicity (FT) among cancer patients, encompassing various income countries and studies from 1999 to 2022. However, most studies concentrated on direct medical costs, neglecting direct non-medical and indirect costs, crucial aspects of FT.
Unraveling Financial Toxicity in Cancer Care: Challenges and Strategies for Improved Patient Support
Comparing cost findings was challenging due to disparities in cancer types, stages, perspectives, and timeframes for cost assessment. Objective FT measurement using the catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) method showed variations in definitions and methods. Subjective FT had diverse prevalence rates, revealing the absence of standardized measurement.
FT warrants greater attention in clinical practice, with nurses taking a pivotal role in identifying and addressing patient financial burdens. Government, cancer foundations, and organizations should invest in nurse education and training programs for FT assessment and support. To fill the FT knowledge gap, especially in low-income countries, further high-quality research is needed. Developing and validating a standardized FT quantification tool should be a research priority.
Addressing Financial Toxicity in Cancer Care: A Call for Nurse-Led Initiatives and Research
FT assessment is often overlooked in clinical evaluations. This review underscores the need for increased FT awareness in clinical settings. Nurses, given their close patient interactions, can help identify and mitigate FT. Governments and organizations should promote nurse education and training for FT assessment and patient support. Further high-quality research is essential, particularly in low-income nations, to understand FT’s impact better. Developing and validating a standardized FT measurement tool should be a primary research objective.
The study conclusively shows that cancer patients across various income groups experience significant financial burdens during their treatment. It underscores the urgency to carry out more research on interventions and policies that could potentially reduce FT caused by cancer treatment.
Original Article DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1266533
Original title: Describing financial toxicity among cancer patients in different income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
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