Dear Editor,

I am writing this letter to express my views and analyze the recently published article in your journal “Caregivers’ concerns through health professionals’ eyes,” by Oliveira et al. (Reference Oliveira, Lourenço and Sotero2024), which focuses on the challenges faced by informal caregivers of cancer patients receiving palliative care (PC). The research was conducted in Portugal and identified 3 main themes: caregiver burden, intra-family impact of the illness, and network vulnerability. The study emphasized the psychological, physical, and social challenges caregivers face (Oliveira et al. Reference Oliveira, Lourenço and Sotero2024). However, some critical aspects are not covered in depth in the article. Amid the fight against cancer, other challenges often arise, including the economic burden borne by families (Johnson et al. Reference Johnson, Czeisler and Howard2021). PC, as an approach that emphasizes improving cancer patients’ and their families’ quality of life, often carries significant financial consequences (Gaertner et al. Reference Gaertner, Siemens and Meerpohl2017). When a family member is diagnosed with cancer, not only the health aspect is a concern but also the financial burden that may arise (Carrera et al. Reference Carrera, Kantarjian and Blinder2018). The cost of PC, which includes pain management, psychological support, and care at home or specialized facilities, can drain family savings (Knaul et al. Reference Knaul, Farmer and Krakauer2018). Families often face unexpected and expensive expenses not fully covered by health insurance. Direct costs such as medicines, medical equipment, and healthcare services become an additional burden in addition to loss of income due to reduced working hours or having to stop working to care for the patient (Kaye et al. Reference Kaye, Okeagu and Pham2021).

In addition to direct costs, indirect costs must also be taken into account. The psychological burden experienced by families often leads to mental health problems that require additional treatment (Fegert et al. Reference Fegert, Vitiello and Plener2020). Ongoing financial stress can impact the family’s well-being long-term, including children who may need extra emotional and psychological support (Cameron et al. Reference Cameron, Joyce and Delaquis2020). Uncertainty about the economic future often pressures families already struggling with the emotional challenges of caring for a loved one.

Several solutions can be considered to reduce this burden. Financial education and planning are critical first steps, such as monthly budgeting, long-term investments (stocks, bonds, or mutual funds), and emergency funds (Kim et al. Reference Kim, Anderson and Seay2019). Families must be informed about various options for financing care, including health insurance, government assistance, and assistance programs from nonprofit organizations (Odeyemi Reference Odeyemi2014). Wise management of financial resources is essential to minimize the long-term economic impact.

On the other hand, community support also plays a crucial role. Support groups, both online and face-to-face, such as online communities for people with chronic diseases, can provide valuable information and emotional support (Kingod et al. Reference Kingod, Cleal and Wahlberg2017). Governments and social organizations need to be more proactive in providing information and assistance to families struggling with the economic burden of PC (Williams et al. Reference Williams, Eby and Crooks2011). Initiatives such as community fundraising, legal aid, and psychological counseling can go a long way in easing the burden on families (McDaid et al. Reference McDaid, Knapp and Raja2008).

In conclusion, the financial impact of PC for cancer patients on families cannot be ignored (Gardiner et al. Reference Gardiner, Brereton and Frey2014). Addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive approach involving effective financial planning, community support, and responsive public policies. Thus, families can focus more on providing compassionate support to their family members battling cancer (Surbone et al. Reference Surbone, Baider and Weitzman2010).