RESUMEN
Introduction/Aim: Emerging evidence suggests that those living with a lung disease may be more susceptible to ongoing COVID-19 symptoms and may face challenges following a COVID-19 infection. Health professionals (HPs) are key to ongoing disease management, and we aimed to gain further insights into the unique experience of patients living with a lung disease in COVID-19. Method(s): An online mixed-methods survey was developed to capture the retrospective and current COVID-19 and long-COVID experiences of Australians. This presentation will focus on the experience of those living with a lung disease, and results centred around the health system, COVID-19 symptoms, long term symptoms, immunisation and trust in the information provided. Result(s): 1 in 2 living with a lung disease experienced ongoing symptoms, impacting their ability to exercise and complete household chores. 1 in 2 were unable to receive the same level of care and support for their existing condition compared to before the pandemic. 50% of respondents had an appointment, test or procedure cancelled or delayed, causing an impact for 2 in 3. Nearly 3 in 5 sought medical advice or treatment for their ongoing symptoms. 95% mainly sought medical advice from a GP, with 92% of people receiving follow up advice, primarily prescribed medications and rest. People living with a lung disease are more concerned about managing their condition and more anxious about future COVID-19 infections and long COVID. Additionally, we will discuss some comparisons to the general population. Conclusion(s): This survey provides HPs and researchers with a unique insight into experiences of people with a lung disease. These understandings will be used to advocate for system changes, and guide the development of resources and support for people with long-COVID, in conjunction with HPs. Findings can be used to influence future care, providing greater insight into opportunities (e.g., immunisation) and challenges (e.g., unclear information).
RESUMEN
Introduction: Emerging evidence suggests an association between COVID-19 and the development of lung cancer and that those living with a lung disease may be more susceptible to persistent symptoms. Australia currently does not have an agreed definition of long-COVID, and as we transition to the endemic phase of COVID-19, we must gain a deeper understanding of the experience of Australians broadly, the influence on people living with lung disease and lung cancer, and prevalence and impact of on-going COVID-19 symptoms. To fill this evidence gap, Lung Foundation Australia surveyed Australians on their experience. Method or Implementation : An online mixed-methods survey was developed to capture the retrospective and current COVID-19 and long-COVID experiences of Australians. Questions focussed on the health system, COVID-19 symptoms, long term symptoms, immunisation, trust in the information provided by Governments, health professionals, and different sectors, and more. The survey was open for 3 weeks in July 2022, with recruitment through EDMs to existing networks, and paid promotion on social media. Results or Learnings : The survey received 2196 responses. Over 45% of respondents had a lung disease or lung cancer, offering a range of experiences and perspectives, including the unique and additional challenges. Health professionals were highly valued and recognised as a trusted source of information and support. Findings will be presented with a focus on those living with lung cancer. Contribution to policy, practice and/or research: This survey provides a unique insight into experiences of Australians, and the differences between people with a pre-existing lung disease versus the general population. The findings will be used to advocate for funding and policy action and guide the development of resources and support for individuals with long-COVID. Findings can also be used to guide general practice care, providing greater insight into opportunities (e.g., immunisation) and challenges (e.g., unclear information) remaining.