Experiencing the COVID-19 health crisis: Quality of life of young to mid-life hematology patients

Purpose: This study questions the quality of life of young to mid-life hematology patients during lockdowns in France.

Method: Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2022.

Findings: Thematic content analysis identified three main themes: (1) regulating fear of COVID-19 during the health crisis, (2) maintaining relationships and fostering social support during the pandemic, and (3) removing the stigma of cancer with COVID-19: a positive factor for patients' quality of life.

Interpretation: Study participants experienced the restrictions imposed on the entire population in the face of COVID-19 in various ways, including positive events. In fact, for some, the lockdown situation allowed them to better "fit in" and feel less stigmatized because of their patient status. Indeed, lifestyles specific to them became common barrier gestures to the whole population.

Implications for psychosocial providers or policy: The results underline the importance of broadening the communication fields and fostering psychosocial skills in these patients.