Physical and Emotional Health of Caregivers for People Who Have Had Stem Cell Transplants

Study Summary

Background: \- Stem cell transplants are a complex treatment that can have serious side effects. Having a caregiver to help with the recovery is critical. Serving in this role, however, can cause high stress levels and negative health effects. Researchers want to better understand the health effects of caring for a family member or friend after a stem cell transplant. Understanding these effects can help develop programs that support caregivers coping with the demands of post-transplant care. Objectives: \- To study the physical and emotional health of caregivers for a family member or friend who has had a stem cell transplant. Eligibility: * Individuals at least 18 years of age who are planning to be a caregiver for a person having a stem cell transplant. * Healthy non-caregiver volunteers for comparison studies. Design: * A caregiver will be caring for a transplant recipient just before transplant admission and up through 6 weeks after hospital discharge. The caregiver will usually live with or spend at least 6 hours each day with the recipient. * All participants will have three study visits. The first visit will happen before the transplant. The second and third visits will happen at the recipient s discharge, and 6 weeks after discharge. The following tests will be done at each visit: * A health assessment with a physical exam and review of life events and current health problems * Blood, hair, and saliva samples * Questionnaires about stress levels, personal health, and the caregiving process. * Caregiver participants may have an optional fourth study visit within 72 hours after an ICU admission. This visit will include the same tests as the other visits....