1595P Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination among cancer patients in an Irish cancer centre

Mullally, W. J.; Flynn, C.; Carr, P.; Kennedy, M. J.; O'Donnell, D.; McCarthy, M.; Alken, S. P.; Cadoo, K.; Sukor, S.; Lowery, M.; Gallagher, D. J.; Grant, C.; Kelleher, F.; Cuffe, S.

Background: Hospitalised cancer patients have a three times higher risk of death (14%) from COVID-19 than the general public. Vaccination provides an unprecedented opportunity to decrease morbidity & mortality, however, there is a limited data regarding cancer patients’ attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination. Methods: An anonymised questionnaire was completed by volunteering cancer patients attending the ambulatory care unit of a large tertiary cancer centre (Feb to April 2021), prior to vaccination rollout in this cohort. It assessed patients’ acceptance of, and attitudes toward, COVID-19 vaccination. Statistical significance was assessed with Chi-square test (χ2). Results: There was an 80% response rate (143/179). This included 79 females (55%) with a median age range of 51–60 yrs. (n = 35/24%). Most (78%) had a good performance status (PS = 0-1) & lung was the most frequent (28%) cancer type. Eight (6%) had previous COVID-19 infection. Among respondents, 128 (90%) intended on getting vaccinated, 12 (8%) were unsure & three (2%) would refuse. Those intent on vaccination were less concerned with side effects, viewed the pandemic as serious & perceived cancer as a cause for more severe infection compared to the rest (Table). All 101 (71%) patients who received the influenza vaccine were intent on COVID vaccination. Almost 20% (n=28) reported that they were more likely to receive the flu vaccine due to the pandemic. Twelve (8%) identified attending their GP as a barrier, with 97% (n=135) willing to attend hospital for vaccination. While this service is free, 69% (n=99) were willing to pay, with nearly 40% (n=57) up to €50. [Formula presented] Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a very high acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccination among Irish cancer patients such that many would be willing to pay & attend hospital to receive it. The barriers to uptake provide an opportunity to improve education. An unexpected consequence, may be a beneficial increased uptake of the influenza vaccine. Legal entity responsible for the study: S. Cuffe. Funding: Has not received any funding. Disclosure: All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.