Experience of Young Adults with Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study on Health Care and Psycho-Emotional Impact

Abstract

Objective: To understand the experiences of young adults with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their psycho-emotional well-being. Methodology: A qualitative case study approach, with data collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with young adults who underwent cancer treatment between March 2020 and December 2021 at a chemotherapy center in southern Brazil. The data was organized using WebQDA software and analyzed thematically. Results: The study revealed that, according to the participants, there were few changes in the oncology treatment process during the COVID-19 pandemic, and these were linked to the delay in starting treatment and delays in specialist consultations. Participants expressed concerns about contracting the virus due to the low immunity caused by cancer treatment. Additionally, strict protective measures, such as isolation, significantly affected the young adults undergoing treatment. They had to suspend their activities and distance themselves from their families, leading to negative emotional impacts. Conclusions: It can be considered that young people with cancer in the pandemic context require support from health services, particularly regarding accurate information, diagnosis, and early treatment, as delays in these processes can directly affect patient survival. Providing mental health care strategies also helps to combat both cancer and COVID-19.