Socio-Economic and Psychological Effects of Cardiovascular Disease on Caregivers: A Study of Public Hospitals Multan, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47067/ramss.v9i1.642Keywords:
Social, Economic, Psychological Wellbeing, Caregivers, Cardiovascular Disease PatientsAbstract
The cardiovascular diseases constitute one of the major global health burdens, as it is not only impact on patient, but also their caregivers who experienced social, economic and psychological difficulties, especially in low and middle-income countries such as Pakistan. The objectives of this study were to identify socio-economic and psychological issues faced by patients' families; to identify the awareness of cardiovascular disease among patients' families and to identify the suffering experienced by families. The present study was conducted at Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi Institute of Cardiology Multan, Pakistan and Nishtar Medical Univeristy & Hospital Multan, Pakistan. The study employed a non-probability convenience sampling technique, selecting a total sample of 400 caregivers of cardiovascular disease patients from two hospitals using Bowley’s proportional allocation method to ensure representation (250 from one hospital and 150 from the other), while data were collected through a structured interview schedule consisting of closed-ended questions. Pre-testing was done on 50 respondents to ensure reliability and clarity. The findings revealed that caregivers of cardiovascular disease patients were moderately satisfied. However, the high costs of medical care, including medication, laboratory, and physician expenses, impose a considerable financial strain. The study reported that caregivers experienced disturbances in family dynamics and limited personal time, with a high level of caregiving involvement. Socio-economics and psychological pressures contribute to distress, including anxiety and stress. Pearson correlation indicated a strong relationship between economic hardship and psychological well-being (r= 0.704). Moreover, there is a moderate correlation between economic and social aspects (r = 0.447) and between social aspects and psychological distress (r = 0.436). The findings made it clear that the extensive support systems are required to deal with the linked to social, economic and psychological needs of cardiovascular disease patients of caregivers.
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