Perceptions and information needs regarding household exposure to anticancer drugs among family members living with patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy in Japan: A qualitative descriptive study

Introduction As outpatient chemotherapy has become increasingly common, family members may be exposed to anticancer drugs in daily life through contact with patients' body fluids and contaminated environments. However, little is known in Japan about family members' perceptions of household exposure to anticancer drugs. In this study, we explored family members' perceptions of household exposure to anticancer drugs and their information needs. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six cohabiting family members of patients receiving outpatient cytotoxic anticancer drug therapy. The data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach. Results Seven categories were identified and integrated into a storyline. Family members had an incomplete understanding of household exposure to anticancer drugs and expressed concerns about its potential effects on themselves and other family members. Some questioned the risks of such exposure, and all participants prioritized the patient's treatment and expressed a willingness to follow recommended preventive measures if provided with information about exposure. Perceptions of exposure risks differed according to family composition, and participants wanted information about currently available knowledge, potential risks, and preventive measures despite the limited evidence regarding household exposure. Conclusions These exploratory findings suggest that healthcare professionals should provide information about household exposure to anticancer drugs not only to patients but also to family members living with them, even when evidence is limited. Information provision could be tailored to individual family circumstances because perceptions of exposure risks may differ according to family composition.