Associations of health beliefs and worry with COVID-19 protective behaviors among lung cancer patients

Although cognitions have predicted COVID-19 protective behaviors in cancer populations, theory suggests that emotions may be more predictive of these behaviors. This study examined Health Belief Model (HBM) variables as correlates of COVID-19 protective behaviors in lung cancer patients and whether worry about COVID-19 was associated with these behaviors beyond the effects of HBM variables. From 2021 to 2022, 191 patients (62.3% female, mean age = 66 years, range = 34-91 years, mean time post-diagnosis = 2 years, range = 0.4-22 years) completed a one-time survey. Results of regression analyses showed that fewer perceived barriers to mask wearing were associated with greater mask wearing, and greater perceived severity of COVID-19 was associated with more social distancing. Higher levels of worry about COVID-19 were associated with greater mask wearing and social distancing above and beyond the effects of HBM variables. HBM variables and worry were unrelated to hand hygiene. Results are largely consistent with theory and suggest potential intervention targets.