COVID-19 Conspiracy Beliefs Among Family Caregivers of Adults With Hematologic Malignancies: A Cross-sectional Analysis

Background: Little research exists on COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs among caregivers of adults with cancer and the associated caregiver characteristics. Objective: To describe COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs among caregivers of adults with cancer and explore characteristics associated with these beliefs. Intervention/Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with caregivers of adults with hematologic malignancies at a tertiary medical center in the northeastern United States from October 2021 to April 2022. COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs were assessed using a modified 19-item Oxford Coronavirus Explanations, Attitudes, and Narratives Survey Coronavirus Conspiracy Scale. Results: Among 55 caregivers, 26% believed the virus is manmade, 17% thought it was a hoax, 17% believed the World Health Organization was withholding the vaccine, and 15% thought the virus was a bioweapon designed to destroy the West. Significant differences in conspiracy belief scores were identified based on vaccine status ( Z = −2.034, P = .0438), housing insecurity ( Z = 1.840, P = .0591), energy insecurity ( Z = 2.305, P = .0219), and marital status ( Z = −2.128, P = .0345). Conclusions: While most caregivers did not endorse strong COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs, findings highlight the need for further research into the factors contributing to such beliefs. Implications for Practice: Future research should identify factors influencing COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs among cancer caregivers to guide interventions that address misinformation and support them. Foundational: This study explores COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs among caregivers—an underexplored yet critical area given their central role in cancer care during the pandemic. It identifies caregiver characteristics associated with these beliefs to inform future targeted interventions.