Association between Family Support and Patients’ Motivation to Undergo Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Over half of cancer patients are treated with chemotherapy with collateral psychological side effects including stress, anxiety, and depression. Strong family support may help to reduce psychological stress by providing comfort, empathy, and encouragement. This study aimed to systematically review the association between family support and patients' motivation to undergo cancer treatment.

Subjects and Method: This was a systematic review following the PICO research question. Population: Cancer patients. Intervention: Strong family support. Compa­rison: Weak family support. Outcome: Motivation to undergo cancer treatment. The articles used in this study were obtained from databases Google Scholar, Pubmed, Ebsco, and other relevant sources. The search keys were “family support” AND “motivation” AND “cancer patient” OR “cancer treatment” OR “Chemotherapy”. The independent variable was family support. The dependent variable was the motivation to undergo cancer treatment. Full-text articles with case study design without publication date restrictions were included in this systematic review. The systematic review proceeded according to the PRISMA flow diagram.

Results: Fifteen articles were reviewed. Family support was significantly associated with motivation to undergo cancer treatment. Family support provides emotional, practical, and informational assistance that enhances the patient's overall well-being and determination to fight cancer.

Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between family support and motivation to comply with chemotherapy protocols in cancer patients.

Keywords: family support, motivation, cancer treatment

Correspondence: Pius Weraman. Graduate School, Universitas Nusa Cendana Kupang. Adisucipto Penfui Kupang 85001, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Email: piusweraman­@staf.­undana.­ac.id. Mobile: 08123789293.