Patient's Perspective on the Impact of COVID-19 on Cancer Treatment in Nigeria
Year: 2022
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: PURPOSE: Because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, health care organizations introduced guidelines for modifications to health and cancer medical care delivery to mitigate transmission and ensure quality health outcomes. To examine the extent and impact of these modifications on oncology service disruptions in Nigeria, we surveyed oncology patients across selected public and private cancer treatment centers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participating in the study were 15 tertiary cancer treatment centers across 12 Nigerian states. We recruited adult patients with cancer (18+ years) on active treatment to complete a self-administered survey on cancer care during COVID-19. We conducted descriptive and multivariate data analysis using Stata 16.1. RESULTS: Respondents were (n = 1,072), female (65.7%), ages 18-49 years (50.3%), and married (80.7%). The top two cancers were breast and prostate. Overall, 17.3% of respondents reported disruptions to cancer care, and more than half (51.0%) reported difficulties accessing care. Changes in chemotherapy regimens or route of administration were reported in 8.4% of respondents. Odds for any disruption were highest for older patients, western states, patients with prostate cancer, and patients with two or more flu symptoms. Odds for radiotherapy cancellation were highest for older patients, those with prostate cancer, and those with medium service perception. CONCLUSION: This study investigated COVID-19-influenced cancer treatment disruptions in Nigeria. Patients with cancer experienced significant disruptions to cancer care. Vulnerable patients are most likely to be negatively affected. Policies and strategies aimed at minimizing service disruptions while maintaining cancer patients' safety should be a priority for all health care institutions in the COVID-19 era.
Source: JCO Global Oncology
DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00244
Authors: Adedayo Joseph, Bankole Olatosi, Mohammad Rifat Haider, Bolanle C. Adegboyega, Nwamaka N. Lasebikan, Usman M. Aliyu, Musa Ali-Gombe, Mutiu A. Jimoh, Olusegun Abayomi Biyi-Olutunde, Opeyemi Awofeso, Omolara Aminat Fatiregun, Evaristus Oseiwe Oboh, Emmanuella Nwachukwu, Ismail H. Zubairu, Samuel A. Otene, Oluwatoyin I. Iyare, Temitope Andero, Alabi Babatunde Musbau, Azeezat Ajose, Adedayo A. Onitilo
Institutions: Lagos University Teaching Hospital, University of South Carolina, University of Georgia, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, University College Hospital, Ibadan, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, National Hospital Abuja, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield Clinic
Language: English
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,472
OpenAlex ID: W4213041457