Concerns and Needs of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer in the COVID-19 Era

Objective To evaluate the concerns and needs of patients and survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC) in the COVID-19 era. Study Design Prospective cross-sectional survey. Setting Contact lists of 5 North American HNC advocacy groups. Methods A 14-question survey was distributed to the contact lists of 5 HNC advocacy groups evaluating patient and survivor needs and concerns related to their cancer care and COVID-19. Results There were 171 respondents, with 75% in the posttreatment period. The most common concern was contraction of COVID-19 (49%). More patients in active treatment preferred in-person visits than those in the early (≤5 years) and late (>5) survivorship period (72% vs 61% vs 40%, P 5 years from treatment preferred virtual visits. Emotional support outside of family and friends was sought out by a majority of respondents. Further research is needed to determine what support and educational resources are needed to best aid these various populations.