The Role of Social Support in the Experience of Informal Caregivers of Cancer Patients: An Umbrella Review

ABSTRACT Objective To understand the role of social support in the caregiving experience of cancer patients through a narrative synthesis of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, providing a comprehensive overview in the field. Methods A systematic search of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses published between 2013 and 2024 was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus using PCC‐based search terms related to informal caregivers, social support, and cancer. Results The search resulted in a total of 1377 articles, of which 32 met the inclusion criteria and quality assessment. Through a high‐level narrative synthesis, we identified three main thematic areas: (i) the role of social support in shaping caregivers' outcomes, including their psychological well‐being, adaptation to the caregiving role and difficulties in receiving and seeking help; (ii) changes in interpersonal relationships, including the relationship with the patient; and (iii) support needs and psychosocial interventions designed to address them. Conclusions Our narrative synthesis confirms social support as a critical factor shaping psychological well‐being, role adaptation, and quality of life among informal caregivers. Evidence consistently shows that emotional and instrumental support reduce caregiver burden and distress, despite frequently reported barriers to seeking and receiving help. Caregiving reshapes interpersonal relationships, requiring ongoing role renegotiation within the caregiver‐patient dyad. Dyadic interventions focusing on relational communication are more effective than information‐only approaches and adaptable across settings. Future research and policies should prioritize person‐centered support throughout the cancer trajectory.