Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with mesothelioma and their carers

Taylor, Bethany Tod Angela Gardiner Clare Creech Lorraine Forde Faye Darlison Liz

Why you should read this article:• To improve your knowledge of mesothelioma• To familiarise yourself with the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the healthcare of people with mesothelioma• To understand how to ensure that people with mesothelioma receive quality care and support during the COVID-19 pandemicMesothelioma is a rare, life-limiting and aggressive cancer with a high symptom burden. This article explores the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the experiences of patients with mesothelioma and their carers. The charity Mesothelioma UK conducted a service evaluation that included two surveys – one with patients with mesothelioma and their carers, and the other with UK mesothelioma clinical nurse specialists – to explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.This article presents the results of these surveys, which suggest that patients with mesothelioma and their carers have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in various areas. These include treatment and investigations, communication with healthcare teams, confusion concerning shielding, and the emotional and psychological burden of the pandemic. The authors include recommendations for practice to ensure patients and their families receive optimal treatment and support during the remainder of the pandemic.