Neuro‐oncological patients' and caregivers' psychosocial burden during the COVID‐19 pandemic—A prospective study with qualitative content analysis

Objective The COVID-19 pandemic may reinforce psychosocial distress of neuro-oncological patients. We aimed to (1) differentiate the burden caused by versus tumor and (2) establish topics relevant for brain patients (BTPs) caregivers. Methods Patients caregivers were prospectively assessed from April 2020–July 2020 a 10-item comprising interview over phone, including qualitative quantitative questions. They quantitatively evaluated i.a. thermometer (DT, score 1–10). questions analyzed using structured content analysis: defined main categories. Subcategories derived an inductive approach assessing frequency patients' caregivers' answers. Results A total 69 20 interviewed; n = 36 female (49%), mean age was 53 years (range 32–81). Patients' disease-related DT scores higher than COVID-19-related scores: median 7 2–10) distress: 5.0 2–7). Caregivers perceived due disease (DT disease: 8; range 2–10 vs. pandemic: 3, 0–10). five 21 subcategories elaborated, most frequently mentioned “restrictions in public private affairs” (28%), “changes psychological well-being” (23%), “limited social interaction contact restriction” (25%). similar those BTPs. Conclusion considerable proportion still as more burdensome pandemic. established items possibly great relevance during these difficult times, which could be implemented content-related adaption assessment.