Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patient-Reported Outcomes of Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors.
Claudia A BargonMarilot C T BatenburgLilianne E van StamDieuwke R Mink van der MolenIris E van DamFemke van der LeijInge O BaasMiranda F ErnstWiesje MaarseNieke VermulstErnst J P SchoenmaeckersThijs van DalenRhodé M BijlsmaDanny A Young-AfatAnnemiek DoeksenHelena M VerkooijenPublished in: JNCI cancer spectrum (2020)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, breast cancer patients and survivors were less likely to contact physicians and experienced a deterioration in their emotional functioning. Patients undergoing active treatment reported a substantial drop in social functioning. One in 2 reported loneliness that was moderate or severe. Online interventions supporting mental health and social interaction are needed during times of social distancing and lockdowns.