The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast cancer survivorship: a scoping review.

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected how cancer care is delivered globally. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on breast cancer survivors (BCS), specifically regarding their quality of life (QoL), follow-up care, and interventions to address their supportive care needs.

METHODS

This review was prepared following PRISMA guidelines. Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from January 2020 to February 2025. Primary studies in English that specifically commented on the impact of COVID-19 on the above outcomes were included.

RESULTS

Of the 40 studies included in this review, the most common designs were cross-sectional (n = 14), prospective cohort (n = 10), and qualitative (n = 7), with four randomized controlled trials. Thirty-five studies examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer survivors (BCS). Twenty studies reported worsened psychological well-being, with increased stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Stressors included fear of COVID-19 exposure during in-person care and concern over service disruptions. Fifteen studies described interruptions to follow-up care, including appointment cancellations and reduced access to surveillance. Eighteen studies noted broader changes to the care model, including virtual interventions and telemedicine, with five evaluating at-home programs and two reporting positive experiences with phone-based follow-up. Five studies addressed concerns about cancer recurrence, with no observed increases but heightened fear. Notably, three studies published after 2023 reported longer-term impacts, such as persistent anxiety, reduced healthcare access, and declines in functional well-being.

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 has negatively impacted the QoL and the care delivery of BCS. Virtual follow-up and interventions were well-received by BCS, and may be recommended as an alternative to in-person care.