“How am I Going to Live? How am I Going to Pay Rent?”: A Mixed Methods Investigation of Employment, Stigma, and Financial Hardship Among LGBTQ+ Cancer Caregivers

Plain Language SummaryLGBTQ+ cancer caregivers face financial hardship associated with job changes and stigma. Why was the study done? Caring for a loved one with cancer can be expensive, and many caregivers have to change or leave their jobs, leading to financial strain. LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to face financial challenges and workplace discrimination, which may make caregiving even harder. This study aimed to understand how employment changes and LGBTQ+ stigma was associated the financial well-being of LGBTQ+ cancer caregivers. What did the researchers do? The researchers conducted a national survey of 332 LGBTQ+ cancer caregivers and interviewed 14 of them to learn more about their experiences. They analyzed the survey data to identify factors linked to financial hardship and examined the interviews to understand the challenges caregivers face. What did the researchers find? Many LGBTQ+ caregivers experienced significant financial hardship. Caregivers who had to change/quit jobs had more than three times the odds of financial difficulties. Those who experienced anti-LGBTQ+ stigma were also more likely to struggle financially. The interviews revealed three major themes that revolved around financial burden, LGBTQ+ identity and varying levels of support, as well as unmet financial needs. What do the findings mean? LGBTQ + cancer caregivers face serious financial challenges, especially when they have to change jobs or encounter stigma. Support programs should consider the unique needs of LGBTQ+ caregivers and work to reduce financial hardship and stigma.