Assessment of knowledge, attitude, practices and distress level of cancer patients in COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can be an extremely stressful experience for the patient. COVID-19 pandemic has further created an environment of stress and anxiety amongst cancer patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to May 2020 using google forms to assess the knowledge, distress level, practices, and attitude toward the COVID-19 pandemic in cancer patients. It was observed that the females and elderly patients (> 55 years) were more knowledgeable about the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, females were more prone to emotional stress compared to males. While the younger age group (18-35 years) had a more hard time in dealing with family-related issues compared to other age groups. Therefore, the younger age group (18-35 years) and female gender being more prone to distress, warrant more attention from health care staff and caretakers. Moreover, the study highlights the need for mental and general health screening and intervention to balance the oncological care and COVID-19 situation.