Is There a Specific Profile of COVID-19 Risk Perception among People with Cancer? A Cross-Sectional Study

Aims: This study aimed to determine if people with cancer (PWC) exhibit a unique COVID-19 risk perception profile and identify psychosocial factors characterizing PWC who do not conform to the majority risk perception profile. Procedure: A cross-sectional online self-questionnaire study was conducted in France from April 25 to May 07, 2020, with a sample (n = 748) comprising PWC, individuals not currently receiving cancer treatment, and those without a history of cancer. Latent profiles of COVID-19 risk perception (PCRP) were established. Methods: A multivariate multinomial logistic regression was performed to assess the association between cancer status and PCRP membership. Characteristics of PWC across different profiles were compared. Results: Four profiles emerged, ranging from Low-Risk to High-Risk Perceivers. PWC were more likely to belong to the High-Risk Perceivers profile (aOR: 3.02; p < 0.001). PWC not conforming to this profile had a higher perceived socioeconomic level (PSL) (p < 0.05). The majority of PWC demonstrated a specific COVID-19 risk perception profile, mainly influenced by medical knowledge linking cancer to increased COVID-19 severity. PSL was a key determinant in shaping risk perception among PWC. Conclusion: Interventions targeting COVID-19 risk perception modification should consider these factors, with particular emphasis on addressing concerns related to SARS-CoV-2 infection.