Coronaphobia: A barrier to ongoing cancer treatment?

Introduction Increased stress levels caused by the pandemic might cause delays in cancer treatment. We conducted a survey among cancer patients undergoing treatment to evaluate their psychological wellbeing and treatment adherence during Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Material and Methods Patients receiving active chemotherapy at a private oncology center between January and May 2021 were included. Healthy volunteers were employees of a district health directorate with no history of cancer or chronic disease. Treatment adherence was described as compliant if the prescribed treatment was received within a week and the information was gained from patient charts. Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) and COVID-19 phobia scale (CP19-S) were administered to participants. Results 402 participants were included; 193 (48%) were cancer patients. The mean age of the participants was 44 years old and 68% of the participants were female. All participants' CP19-S mean score was 47.9. Patient group had significantly lower CP19-S (p = 0.006). Chronic disease and history of a shocking event were the factors associated with CP19-S. All participants reporting hospital anxiety were found to have significantly higher COVID-19 phobia levels (p < 0.05). Patients' mean HADS-anxiety score was significantly higher (7.3 vs. 6.5, p = 0.027). COVID-19 phobia was an independent factor increasing the level of anxiety and depression in both groups. Adherence to treatment was 100%. Conclusion The pandemic increased levels of anxiety, however, cancer treatment continued to be a priority in patients' lives. Strategies should be developed to support oncology patients cope with the pandemic and increase their courage to avoid treatment delays.

Automated summary

This study investigates the psychological well-being and treatment adherence of cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results indicate that the pandemic has increased anxiety levels, but cancer treatment remains a priority in patients' lives. Strategies should be developed to support oncology patients in coping with the pandemic and increasing their courage to avoid treatment delays.