Perspectives of cancer patients during the COVID-19 outbreak in Israel: The long-term implications on support and well-being in an exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic's ongoing effects and long-term implications for the mental and social state of cancer patients are not yet fully known. The current study examined cancer patients' feelings about the pandemic's long-term impact on daily life 1 year after its outbreak in Israel and after the patient's vaccination against the virus.

Methods: Ten in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with cancer patients between February and April 2021.

Results and conclusions: Findings indicated four main themes: (1) managing medical care and support from the medical staff, (2) the effect of the pandemic on social interactions; (3) the impact of the pandemic on family and social support and (4) the patients' psychological well-being. Despite the patients being vaccinated, the full impact of the pandemic on cancer patients' mental and social states is still fully apparent. The findings reflect the need to assess and monitor the patients' mental state and social and medical needs during this complex time and the importance of developing external support networks.

Keywords: COVID-19; cancer; mental health; perspective; support; vaccination.