References Family in sickness and in health Current statistics show that two out of every three families will be affected by cancer. The consensus in most studies that have investigated the influence of support on patients' adjustment is that those who are able, despite their illness, to maintain close interpersonal relations with family and friends cope more effectively with the disease than those who are not able to maintain such a relationship.
Cancer does indeed invade the family.
Individual members, especially the spouse, are often highly distressed and cannot provide support for the patient. Spouses cannot be considered as natural providers of support for patients, because they themselves might be in need of emotional support or help. Moreover, in situations where family relationships were poor prior to diagnosis, illness may place further stress on these relationships. Adherence to treatment 2. Social environment Family function before Family function during Marital relationship System of social support 3.