Measuring the Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on a Longitudinal Study of Patient Reported Symptoms in Patients with Breast Cancer
摘要
COVID-19COVID-19 introduced unique challenges for individuals with breast cancerBreast cancer, a population already vulnerable to significant symptom burdenSymptom burden. While increased psychological distressPsychological distress during the pandemic has been well-documented, the intersection of symptom burdenSymptom burden, socioeconomic factors, and resilienceResilience remains less explored. Understanding how financial insecurity, social supportSocial support, and resilience influenced the symptom experience can provide valuable insights for future healthcare strategies. Women with breast cancerBreast cancer faced disruptions in employment and social interactions, contributing to worsening symptom burdenSymptom burden. Higher resilienceResilience was associated with lower symptom severity, highlighting its protective role. However, individuals who experienced job or income loss reported greater depression, sleep disturbances, and difficulties engaging in social roles. Those living alone reported increased heightened symptom burdenSymptom burden, emphasizing the importance of social supportSocial support in managing health. The findings of this study call for more research on an integrated precision health care approach to care that considers treatment-related factors alongside environmental, social, biological, and economic influences. Recognizing these factors, healthcare providers can develop effective support systems to mitigate symptom burdenSymptom burden and enhance well-being, particularly during crises.