Concerns and attitudes of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has changed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care. The use of telemedicine was quickly adopted, however the impact of COVID-19 on IBD patients’ feelings and sense of security for their health has not been extensively evaluated.Aims: Our aim was to assess patients’ views and concerns regarding their IBD condition, compliance with treatment and preventive measures, accessibility to health services and sources of information they used during the coronavirus pandemic.Methods: A questionnaire-based survey of patients with IBD (n=237) was conducted at a University and an NHS GI Units.Results: Greek patients with IBD expressed high levels of fear of coronavirus infection, with more than 50% being afraid of dying as a result of COVID-19. Seven out of ten participants felt that their IBD medications increased risk of infection and this fear was significantly higher in patients on immunosuppression. Only 2% of patients discontinued treatment on their own, all of whom were receiving immunosuppression. More than 90% of participants reported staying home and washing their hands. Three quarters of patients had access to a doctor when needed and almost 50% used the electronic paperless prescription system. Participants were satisfied with the information they received regarding COVID-19. The main sources of information were media, internet and social networks, with only one third seeking guidance from their gastroenterologist. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound, negative effect on IBD patients’ lives. COVID-19-related fears need to be actively addressed, particularly in IBD patients on immunosuppression, and relevant information should be continuously provided.