Strategies aimed at overcoming COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among oncologic patients

• DOI: 10.4103/crst.crst_173_21
• Publication Date: 2021-09-13T10:37:57Z
• Authors: Cynthia Villarrea...; Bryan F. Vaca-Car...; Andrea Becerril-G...; Ana S. Ferrigno
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens; RC254-282

In a recent article titled, "COVID-19 vaccine uptake and hesitancy in Indian patients with cancer: A questionnaire-based survey," Noronha et al.[1] demonstrated high rate (59%) toward COVID-19 vaccination among oncologic Mumbai. This finding is consistent studies conducted other regions,[23] demonstrating that persists as critical impediment to prevent severe cancer patients. Notably, the acceptance reported by Solís Arce al.[4] general population India (84%) presents stark contrast. However, absence of validated instrument for assessing use convenience sample limit direct comparison results these reports. The most common reasons not having received were fear its impact on treatment lack information. Consequently, authors recognized educational campaigns are key increasing acceptance. two strategies could further enhance rates: (1) encouraging oncologists routinely provide information vaccines promote (2) implementing priority program facilitate access at particularly risk presenting disease. nearly half who had already against accepted it based their physicians' advice. Furthermore, one four hesitant they be convinced receive if treating physician recommended it. importance healthcare professionals promoting has also been discussed previous reports,[23] findings this study reinforce need assess actively endorse vaccination. Nonetheless, proportion workers counsel get vaccinated poorly explored should considered an area future research. addressing (estimated 19% worldwide[5]) urgent priority. Despite stating widely available studied, substantial (18%) declared due unavailability. Access might inadequate resource-constrained settings; while desirable give all patients, feasible. Hence, some countries restricted supply have opted deny status, others conceded early but report levels essential optimize immunization prioritize according Among population, factors such age, comorbid diseases, malignancy type, level immunosuppression may place higher infection COVID-19. Thus, limited, given preference over others. development clinical guidelines establish protocols allocation. Financial support sponsorship Nil. Conflicts interest Dr. Villarreal-Garza: Grants from AstraZeneca Roche; speaking honoraria Roche, Myriad Genetics, Novartis, Pfizer, Eli Lilly; travel fees MSD Oncology, Pfizer; advisory roles Lilly.