Frequency of vaccine hesitancy among patients with advanced cancer

Vaccine hesitancy has become prevalent in society. Vulnerable populations, such as those with cancer, are susceptible to increased morbidity and mortality from diseases that may have been prevented through vaccination.

Our objective was to determine patient perception of vaccine efficacy and safety and sources of information that influence decisions.

This study was a prospective cross-sectional survey trial conducted from March 10, 2022, to November 1, 2022, at a Supportive Care Clinic. Patients completed the survey with a research assistant or from a survey link. Vaccine hesitancy was defined as a response of 2 or more on the Parent Attitudes About Childhood Vaccines (PACV-4). Perception on vaccine safety and efficacy along with the importance of sources of information were determined by a questionnaire.

Of the 72 patients who completed the PACV-4, 30 were considered vaccine-hesitant (42%). Of those who completed the survey alone (35), 23 (66%) were vaccine-hesitant; and of those who completed the survey with the help of a study coordinator (37), 7 (19%) were vaccine-hesitant. The most important source for decision-making was their doctor (82%, 95% CI 73-89), followed by family (42%, 95% CI 32-52), news/media (31%, 95% CI 22-41), and social media (9%, 95% CI 4-16). Clinical and demographic factors including age, gender, race/ethnicity, education level, and location of residence were not associated with vaccine hesitancy.

Vaccine hesitancy is present among patients with advanced cancer. The high value given to the doctor's recommendation suggests that universal precautions regarding vaccine recommendation may be an effective intervention.