Psychological impact of COVID-19 to patients undergoing radiation therapy
PO-1453
Abstract
Psychological impact of COVID-19 to patients undergoing radiation therapy
Authors: AZHAR OUALHA1, Nejla Attia2, Sabrine Tbessi1, Samia Belajouza2, Nadia Bouzid1, Sameh Tebra2
1Farhat Hached Hospital, Radiation oncology department, Sousse, Tunisia; 2Farhat Hached hospital, Radiation oncology department, Sousse, Tunisia
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Purpose or Objective
The exceptional
health situation linked to the SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) coronavirus has created a
significant anxiety dimension for the entire population and more particularly
for patients treated in oncology. These patients are caught in the crossfire of
multiple sources of concern: fear of contracting the virus while going to the
health center, fear linked to modified treatment protocols and uncertainty about
the progression of the cancer.
Material and Methods
This
is a descriptive prospective study which aims to assess the impact of the
health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic in the radiotherapy department of Farhat
Hached hospital Sousse on the mental health of the 36 patients undergoing
treatment through various indicators: psychological distress, social support,
loneliness, symptoms of depression and symptoms of anxiety. It is based on data
collected during the survey through a questionnaire for each patient.
Results
Among 40 patients, 36 responded to the questionnaire
(rate 90% of participation). Signs of psychological distress were found in
60.3% of the patients. One from five patients had symptoms of depression and
37.5% had symptoms of anxiety. One from three patients showed signs of
loneliness and almost a quarter had low social support 25.6%. Women were at
greater risk for psychological distress and symptoms of anxiety compared to
men. In addition, 70% of patients admit to be more afraid during the first wave
of the pandemic and only 20% have considered interrupting their treatment
because of the risk of contagion when they go to the treatment center.
Conclusion
These
results invite us to re-estimate the psychological risks impacting the lives of
patients. They encourage the implementation of psychological risk prevention
actions aimed at this audience, such as listening platforms and the development
of psychological support.