MNGI-25. THE CAREGIVER BURDEN IN MENINGIOMA: LONG-TERM RESULTS AND ITS EFFECTS ON CAREGIVER’S HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Various studies in oncological/neurological patients highlight that informal caregivers suffer from a significant disease burden. We aimed to assess the meningioma caregiver burden, and its effects on caregivers health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and levels of anxiety and depression. METHODS: In a multicentre cross-sectional study informal caregivers of intracranial meningioma patients at a median of 10 years after their last anti-tumour therapy were included. Informal caregivers were family members or close friends and completed the caregiver disease burden scale, SF-36 (HRQoL) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Caregiver burden was assessed as an independent determinant for caregivers HRQoL, and levels of anxiety and depression with multivariable analysis correcting for relevant confounders. Participant recruitment is still in progress. RESULTS: 110 informal caregivers were included (mean age: 64.5, female: 37.2%). Informal caregivers reported any caregiver burden in 35.2% of cases, and clinically relevant burden in 15.7%. More specifically, 20.4% of caregivers suffered from stress, 11.2% from social isolation, 13.0% from feelings of disappointment, 21.0% from emotional problems, and 12.0% from environmental factors complicating the care for the patient. The total caregiver burden score was significantly associated with decreased HRQoL on 6/8 scales and 2/2 component scores: physical function (=-6.53, p=0.071), role limitation due to physical problems (=-13.62, p=0.041), bodily pain (=-13.11, p=0.014), social function (=-11.87, p=0.001), mental health (=-14.32, p<0.001), vitality (=-14.24, p=0.001), physical component scale (=-4.40, p=0.022), and mental component scale (=-6.09, p<0.001). In addition, the total caregiver burden score was independently associated with higher anxiety (=3.11, p<0.001) and depression levels (=4.11, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Caregiver burden in informal caregivers of meningioma patients is considerable, negatively affected their HRQoL, and levels of anxiety and depression. Paying more attention to meningioma patients caregivers seems therefore warranted, and effective support should be implemented if required.