Impact on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients in the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Reflection from Abraham Maslow's Theory of Basic Human Needs

Abstract

The current COVID-19 pandemic is causing damage worldwide. The risk group for evolution with severe clinical condition and death from infection by the new coronavirus are people over 60 years of age, with chronic diseases and immunosuppressed, so cancer patients are a high-risk group in the COVID-19 pandemic. When it comes to quality of life during the pandemic, the biological, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions can be affected, especially in cancer patients who already deal with the physical and mental changes resulting from the treatment and coping with the disease. In this sense, the present study aims to reflect on the possible impacts on the quality of life of cancer patients during the pandemic in parallel with Abraham Maslow's theory of basic human needs. As well as highlight the recommendations and strategies already outlined by health researchers in order to minimize such losses.