Session Item

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 disease, oncologic patients were identified as subjects at risk of developing serious complications during pandemic. The dangerousness of the disease and the restrictive measures can both be a cause for concern and anxiety among population, and their impact on cancer patients, could be even greater. This study aimed to investigate the psychological state of cancer patients in our Institute.

From April 15^th 2020 to May 30^th 2020 all patients attending our Unit were invited to answer a self-administered questionnaire, as promoted by AIOM . Fifty-three anonymous questions were set to evaluate the participants’ risk perception of COVID-19 and their psychological status. In addition to demographic characteristics, the questionnaire investigated 5 different domain: provided information about COVID, mood, social relationships, medical history and perceived safety. Descriptive analysis was performed, in collaboration with psycho-oncologist. The patients were also divided in 2 groups, according to phase 1 (50 patients) and phase 2 (50 patients) of the pandemic.

Demographic characteristics are shown in Table 1. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed Provided information about COVID: The 42% of patients received satisfactory information about COVID from traditional and social media. In addition, the family doctor (37%) or the radiotherapist (14%) were contacted. Mood: Anxiety and concern were prevalent in the 53% of patients. Sadness, sense of impotence or vulnerability were reported in the 20%. The 26% felt calm or indifferent. Infection of family members and/or themselves (34%), future economic situation (10%), interruption of oncologic cares (4%) were the main concerns. Anger for political choices was reported in the 8%. Social relationships: A modification in daily life was perceived in the 31%, due to restrictive measures and less familiar contacts. Nevertheless, interpersonal relationships did not modified in the 75% of cases, despite the distance. The 60% was satisfied by quality of life, and the 54% enjoyed daily activity. Medical history: Previous psychological disorders were found in 9 patients. Their impact on risk perception was negligible: 1% contacted the psychologist or needed drugs adjustment to face the crisis, 0% considered suicide. The 3% of patients increased smoke, food and alcohol habits. Perceived safety: The 40% did not postponed visits or exams during this period. The 30% considered the RT Unit a safe place. No significant differences were found between the 2 groups, so all the results were considered together.

Our analysis showed  that, during the COVID-19 epidemic, oncologic patients were worried about the risks of infection, but protective measures by our Institute  resulted adequate to limit psychological distress and guarantee a good quality of life. Further actions should be taken to improve sense of security in our Unit.