Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p> Background Palliative care is a vital component of cancer management that aims to improve the quality of life of patients and their families by addressing physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Family caregivers play a important role in supporting cancer patients; however, inadequate knowledge and unfavourable attitudes toward palliative care may hinder optimal care utilization. In Odisha, limited awareness regarding palliative care services remains a major concern. <bold>Methodology</bold> : A quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional descriptive design were used for the study. The study was conducted among 300 family members of cancer patients attending oncology departments of IMS and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Convenience sampling technique was used. Data were collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire, the standardized Palliative Care Knowledge Scale (PaCKS), and a self-structured attitude questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results The findings revealed that 81.3% of participants had moderate knowledge regarding palliative care, 14% had good knowledge, and 4.7% had poor knowledge. Regarding attitude, 89.7% of participants showed a neutral attitude, 7.7% demonstrated a negative attitude, and only 2.7% had a positive attitude toward palliative care. A slight positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitude. Conclusion The study concluded that family members of cancer patients have the moderate knowledge and neutral attitudes toward palliative care. Structured educational interventions and awareness programs are required to improve caregivers’ understanding and promote positive attitudes toward palliative care services. </p>