The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on anxiety levels among patients who have to go to the hospital due to chronic illnesses: A prospective study

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer and hemodialysis (HD) patients are at high risk for COVID-19. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of pandemic on anxiety in these patients.

Methods: One hundred and six oncology and 97 HD patients participated in the study. Anxiety levels were assessed by using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). At the end of 8-month follow-up, these questionnaires were re-administered.

Results: During this period, 38 patients (38/203; 18.7%) had COVID-19 infection. Twenty-three patients (23/203; 11.3%) died due to COVID-19 and/or other causes. One hundred and thirteen of the remaining patients were participated in the second questionnaire. Having COVID-19 was not the independent factor for changes in STAI, and BAI scores in any regression models.

Conclusion: Having COVID-19 does not affect the increased anxiety levels in HD and oncology patients. The effect of the pandemic may have remained in the background, as these patients have more concerns about their own diseases.

Keywords: Beck anxiety; COVID-19 pandemic; STAI; hemodialysis; oncology.