Influence of quarantine during the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic on physical and psychosocial aspects:perceptions of 214 Brazilian athletes

Background:Social distancing may affect athletes,training,causing negative effects on mental and physical health.Objective:This study therefore aimed to characterize the perception of Brazilian athletes about their physical and psychosocial aspects,sleep quality and coping strategies during the quarantine of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.Methods:This was a cross-sectional study with online survey,performed with Brazilian athletes(amateur and professional)over 18 years.The main outcomes measures assessed were physical and psychosocial aspects,sleep quality and coping strategies.Results:A total of 214 athletes were included.The average weekly hours of training during the quarantine was 4.71±3.71 h,of which 64.5%athletes(138/214)were oriented by medical staff during training.For 52.8%(113/214)of athletes,training intensity during the quarantine was different/very different from the intensity before the quarantine.79.4%athletes(170/214)reported moderate to extreme difficulties in keeping the same level of training during the quarantine.77.1%athletes(165/214)had moderate to extreme anxiety and each of the athletes had concern about his or her athletic career future,including return to the sport.72.9%athletes(156/214)reported change in sleep schedule during the quarantine period.Conclusion:The quarantine period during COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the athlete^perception about training routine,since athletes reported reduction in training hours and training intensity.Overall,the athletes reported that they were moderately to extremely anxious.They also had concerns about their career in the future,as well as concerns regarding return to sport.

Psychosocial Lived Experience of Parents with Children Diagnosed with Cancer in Lubumbashi

Objective: To determine the psychosocial problems, social acceptance and the impact of the costs of parents whose child has cancer. Method: We carried out a descriptive cross-sectional study over two-year periods (from January 3, 2018 to March 31, 2020) in the pediatric oncology unit of clinics at the University of Lubumbashi, in DR Congo. Results: 129 parents of children with cancer in the pediatric oncology unit were included in our study. Most children with cancer (53%) were accompanied by their mothers who had a low level of education (53.0%). Emotional shock was the most observed reaction (68%) to the announcement of the disease (cancer). Retinoblastoma has had a significant economic impact on families without medical coverage. Only 38% received psychological support from parents. Sadness was the most common feeling (77%) of households. Support workers consider their relationship with the medical profession acceptable in 67% and difficult in 11%. The majority of parents (78%) felt that the time to provide medical care was longer than expected. Conclusion: Parents of children with cancer had different feelings and reactions. This observation may be useful for the development of a health policy, in particular that of pediatric cancer in DR Congo.