Psychosocial effects of the corona pandemic on people with cancer: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: The Corona pandemic caused far-reaching changes since 2020. We wanted to find out which factors determined the psycho-social well-being of cancer patients during the pandemic. Methods: From May to July 2021, structured interviews were conducted concerning lockdown, social limitations, the virus itself, the treatment situation, and opportunities. Results: Twenty people took part in the study (doctors, psychologists, nurses, social workers, patients). One of the most important aspects was the ban on visits. Others were the fear of infection and the possibility of vaccination. Wearing a mask seem to have been worse for the experts. Conflicts in families about the “right” behavior to protect yourself from infection have been a stressful issue for patients, just as the lack of balance and recreation in free time. Conclusion: Patients in the third wave of corona have become accustomed to the rules. Especially loneliness and the organization of time at home are psycho-social stress factors.