Quality of life in caregivers of melanoma patients

Background The impact of melanoma on quality of life (QoL) is not limited to the patient but may also affect caregivers. Objectives To investigate the impact of melanoma on caregivers’ QoL. Materials & Methods Caregivers of melanoma patients were recruited at the melanoma unit of our hospital. The impact on caregivers’ QoL was measured using the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI). Results Data were collected for 120 caregivers, of whom 51.7% were men and the mean age was 56.9 years. Breslow thickness of melanoma was <0.8 mm in 70.8% of cases. Mean FDLQI score was 5.7 (SD: 2.4). Among the single items of the FDLQI, the highest mean score corresponded to emotional distress. The impact on QoL was greater when the caregiver was a son/daughter, and increased relative to the age of the patient and number of years since diagnosis. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first study to quantitatively evaluate the impact of melanoma on caregivers. Such impact was not negligible and mostly concerned emotional aspects. Caregivers need to be supported by structured educational and psychological interventions.