Perception and expectations of preventive health behavior in medical institutions during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Germany: Results of a cross-sectional web-based survey in women with an increased hereditary risk for breast and ovarian cancer

ABSTRACT

Background: Patients with cancer are at higher risk to be infected by SARS-CoV-2, are more likely to develop a severe COVID-19 illness, and are more likely to die as a result of COVID-19. Thus, several strategies were proposed to mitigate the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic crisis with respect to people at higher risk, such as implementing strict personal precautions in cancer patients or cancer survivors. Method(s) To assess the expectations and perspectives of women with an increased hereditary risk for breast and ovarian cancer regarding measures to prevent infection and implement environmental control during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a web-based survey was placed on internet platforms of support groups between 29th January and 22th April 2021. Missing data were composed of those patients who did not answer the question or who did not have a clear opinion regarding the topic. Data are presented as frequencies of selected items. Result(s) 37.5% of participants stated, that they would like to be informed about the hygiene concept of the health care institution and 20.3% reported that this information would have changed their own behavior. To prevent the spread of the virus, 57.8% of respondents approved testing of patients previous to a visit to a health care facility and 95.3% stated, that health care professionals should be tested on a regular basis. 93.8% approved the change of appointments to ensure social distancing, but 75.0% would support the possibility to be escorted by a significant other during medical appointments. To avoid unnecessary possible exposure, 71.9% of participants endorsed the possibility of virtual patient consultations. Additionally, 84.4% of respondents expected, that health care personnel used at least surgical masks, and 68.8% expected, that the health care personnel used FFP-2 masks. Discussion(s) Protecting patients at risk and medical caregivers is a priority during pandemics. Conclusion(s) Our data emphasize the wish and need for reorganization of health care facilities with the aim to protect patients at risk.