Combined Effects of mHealth Psychoeducational and Benson Relaxation Technique Among Female Informal Caregivers of Cancer Patients in Bangladesh

Background: Cancer is a global health concern that places a substantial burden not only on patients but also on their informal caregivers, often family members or close friends without formal medical training. Numerous studies show that caregivers face significant burdens, which impact their physical, social, and psychological well-being. Female caregivers, often subjected to cultural expectations, face heightened challenges, contributing to higher levels of burden and emotional distress. However, the combined effectiveness of Benson relaxation techniques and mHealth psychoeducational interventions on female informal caregivers of cancer patients remains relatively unexplored. Objective: This study aims to investigate the combined effectiveness of the mHealth psychoeducational intervention and Benson relaxation techniques to reducing caregiving burden as well as anxiety and depression, and to assess the impact on the quality of life among female informal caregivers of cancer patients in Bangladesh. Methods: A randomized control trial study will be conducted at the Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital in Enayetpur, Sirajganj, Bangladesh. Computer-generated simple random sampling technique will be used to select study participants. The study period will be from April 2024 to September 2024. Data will be collected through face-to-face interviews, employing validated tools such as Zarit Burden Interview, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, and Bangla WHOQOL-BREF. The intervention group will receive a combined intervention using self-determination theory (symptom management, maintaining and enhancing relationships, problem-solving, stress and coping, self-care, and effective communication) and Benson relaxation techniques through recorded videos, phone calls, and SMS reminders over six months. The control group will receive only usual care. The study ensures ethical practices, obtains informed consent, and prioritizes data safety and confidentiality. Results will be analyzed using statistical methods, which will provide valuable information for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers in the field of cancer caregiving.

Sex

Female

Minimum age

18 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

* Who is facing caregiving burden in the baseline screening of the study.
* Female being 18 years of age or older.
* At least 6 months of providing care to a cancer-diagnosed patient.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Refusal to collaborate with ongoing study.
* Caregivers who receive financial compensation or are employed as formal caregivers.
* Extremely traumatic events that occur during the study (such as the death of loved ones or patients, separations, etc.) or caregivers undergoing treatment with psychotropic drugs will not be included in the study.
* Without smart mobile devices at home.