Burden of Financial Hardship Among Breast Cancer Survivors in Maharashtra, India.

Introduction: Improved breast cancer treatments have increased survival rates, but prolonged and costly therapies strain survivors financially. This study addresses the dearth of research on financial difficulties among breast cancer survivors (BCS) in India.

Methods: A mixed-methods study was employed; we assessed financial hardship (FH) using the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity-Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (COST-FACIT), a validated 12-item questionnaire. The minimum score represents FH (FH was categorized based on scores <27).

Results: Out of 80 surveyed BCS, 60% experienced FH and had a median age of 48 years (40.5-56.5 years). Factors such as occupation, education, income, expenditures, insurance coverage, and impact on savings exhibited significant associations with FH. With only one-third having health insurance and 43.8% self-funding treatment, this research sheds light on the urgent need for targeted support and policies to alleviate the financial burdens faced by BCS in the Indian context.

Conclusion: Financial hardship harms the mental and physical health of BCS. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and insurers are crucial to establishing a compassionate healthcare system that addresses both immediate health and long-term financial concerns.