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.