Objective: The recent outbreak of monkeypox (mpox) poses significant public health challenges, particularly for immunocompromised populations such as patients with cancer. However, misinformation poses a significant challenge during new outbreaks for patients with chronic diseases, as observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we aimed to assess perspectives and knowledge of patients with cancer on mpox and their willingness to receive mpox vaccination.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with cancer using a structured questionnaire. The survey encompassed sociodemographic data, mpox knowledge, attitudes towards vaccination, and willingness to mpox vaccination. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of vaccination willingness.
Results: A total of 275 patients were included. A significant majority (73.1%) of respondents wanted to learn more about mpox, and 33.8% were confident in global efforts to control the outbreak. 69.1% of the patients were unwilling to receive the mpox vaccine, mainly due to safety concerns and the interference with the anti-cancer treatment. In multivariable analysis, younger age (<65 years) (OR = 1.836, 95% CI:1.030-3.271, p = 0.039), information about mpox before (OR = 1.899, 95% CI:1.104-3.268, p = 0.021) and good knowledge about mpox (OR = 1.968, 95% CI:1.118-3.465, p = 0.019) were significant predictors of willingness to vaccinate against mpox.
Conclusion: A substantial proportion of cancer patients in Turkey are hesitant to receive the mpox vaccine, primarily due to concerns about safety and its implications for cancer treatment. Targeted educational interventions that address these specific concerns and enhance understanding of the benefits of vaccination are critical to improving vaccine uptake in this vulnerable population.
Keywords: Cancer patients; knowledge; mpox; vaccination; vaccine.
This study evaluated the perspectives and knowledge of patients with cancer on mpox and their willingness to receive the mpox vaccine. Among 275 participants undergoing active treatment, only 30.9% expressed willingness to receive the mpox vaccine, with hesitancy primarily attributed to safety concerns and potential interference with anticancer therapies. Multivariable analyses revealed younger age (<65 years), prior awareness of mpox, and higher knowledge scores as being independent predictors of vaccine acceptance. The findings highlight significant gaps in knowledge and high levels of hesitancy, emphasizing the need for tailored educational interventions to address misconceptions and strengthen vaccine confidence. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and public health authorities are critical to disseminating accurate, evidence-based information to increase awareness regarding mpox and improve vaccination uptake in this vulnerable population.