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Outcomes of cancer patients with COVID-19: the Virginia Commonwealth University experience.

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PURPOSE The cancer population is significantly impacted by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to inherent risks of infection imposed by malignancy and therapeutic agents. Evaluating risk factors in this group… Click to show full abstract

PURPOSE The cancer population is significantly impacted by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to inherent risks of infection imposed by malignancy and therapeutic agents. Evaluating risk factors in this group will lead to improved guidelines for treatment of malignancy in the setting of a COVID-19 pandemic. PATIENTS AND METHODS This retrospective study reviewed 295 inpatient cancer patients positive for COVID-19 between February 2020 and December 2021 to determine specific risk factors of mortality and associated complications. Various patient characteristics were collected to evaluate for outcomes in patient death, oxygen requirement, ventilatory support, and increased length of stay. RESULTS 31 (10.5%) of 295 patients died due to COVID-19. Of those that died, the majority had hematologic cancer (48.4%). There was no difference in odds of death among the cancer groups. Those vaccinated had a reduced risk of death (OR 0.04, CI 0-0.23). Patients with lung cancer (OR 3.69, CI 1.13-12.31), obesity (OR 3.27, CI 1.18-9.27), CHF (OR 2.68, CI 1.07-6.89) were more likely to require ventilation. Those treated with hormonal therapy had higher odds of having a prolonged admission (OR 5.04, CI 1.17-2.53). Otherwise, cancer therapy had no significant difference in any outcome. CONCLUSION The mortality rate of cancer patients was 10.5%, lower than other studies. Vaccinations had mortality benefit, but no effect on hypoxia, ventilator use, or LOS. Delaying cancer therapy during peak infection is likely not necessary based on results of this study. With improved knowledge in the risks of infection and utility of personalized precautions, both providers and patients can better prepare for another potential wave of COVID-19.

Keywords: covid virginia; cancer patients; virginia commonwealth; outcomes cancer; patients covid; cancer

Journal Title: Cancer investigation
Year Published: 2023

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