Cross-Sectional Study of Factors Associated With Self-Efficacy for Nutritional Planning by Family Caregivers of Patients With Gastrointestinal Cancer

Objective: To examine factors associated with the self-efficacy for nutritional planning by family caregivers of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, with a focus on caregiver burden and decision-making related to the consumption of fruits and vegetables (F&V). Methods: This cross-sectional study examined 378 family caregivers of patients who had GI cancers, mostly in the stomach, colorectum, or liver. Self-efficacy for nutrition planning, caregiver burden, and decision-making regarding the consumption of F&V were measured using the Nutrition Self-Efficacy Scale, the Brief Assessment Scale for Caregivers, and Henry’s Decisional Balance Scale for F&V consumption, respectively. Results: Family caregivers who had greater nutritional self-efficacy had higher perceived “pros” regarding the health benefits of F&V, were married, had higher comorbidity scores, and had longer durations of caregiving. Family caregivers who had decreased nutritional self-efficacy had higher perceived “cons” to consuming F&V and increased perceived burden on other family members. Conclusion: Our results suggest that increased awareness of the benefits and challenges of consuming F&V, along with strong support systems for family caregivers, can improve the diets of patients with GI cancer.