Psychosocial experience of parents with children diagnosed with cancer in Lubumbashi

Introduction: Objective is to determine the psychosocial problems, social acceptance, and cost impact of parents with cancer.

Methodology: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study over two-year periods (from January to 1999) (from August 3, 2018 to March 31, 2020) in the pediatric oncology unit of the clinics of the University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo.

Results: 129 parents of children with cancer in the pediatric oncology unit were included in our study. The most children with cancer (53%) were accompanied by their mother with a low level of education (53.0%). Emotional shock was the most observed reaction. (68%) when the disease (cancer) is announced. Retinoblastoma has had a significant economic impact on families without medical coverage. Only 38% received psychological support from parents. Sadness was the most common feeling (77%) of households. Support workers consider their relationship to be in the medical profession acceptable in 67% of cases and difficult in 11%. The majority of parents (78%) felt that the time it took to provide medical care was longer than expected.

Conclusion: Parents of children with cancer had different feelings and reactions. This observation can be useful for the development of a health policy, in particular that of paediatric cancer.