April 9, 2020

Coronavirus & Cancer: 4 Critical Answers for Cancer Patients

Cancer and Coronavirus: What People with Cancer Should Know

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus belongs to a group of viruses. The novel coronavirus that started in Wuhan, China has been named SARS-CoV-2, and the disease it causes has been named coronavirus disease 2019, which is abbreviated COVID-19. We have already written a thorough article on the basic facts of COVID-19. Have a look at the videos on our previous blog to learn how to wash hands or wear a mask.

Here are the common questions that relate to cancer and cancer patients

If I have cancer, am I at higher risk of getting or dying from COVID-19?

Battling cancer is very tough on the human body. Patients with cancer who are undergoing active treatments such as chemotherapy can weaken your immune system and make you prone to get infections. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19.

Hear from India’s leading doctors:

Many times, during chemo cycles, you will be at an increased risk of infections.

Adults and children with serious chronic health conditions, including cancer, are at higher risk of developing more serious complications from contagious illnesses such as COVID-19.
If I have cancer, how can I protect myself?
Unfortunately currently there is vaccine to prevent COVID-19 neither is there a specific treatment for it. The best way to protect yourself from it is to try every measure possible not to get it.

Precautions for avoiding COVID-19 are the same as for other any other contagious respiratory illnesses, such as influenza (flu).

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyday preventive measures to help prevent the spread of respiratory infections, including:
- Avoid gatherings and close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid unnecessary person-to-person contact, such as handshakes
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; and before and after coming in contact with others
If you do have to step outside, wear a mask. Wearing a mask properly is very important. Do follow WHO’s tips on how to wear a mask properly

If you do not have access to a mask then the CDC recommends to at least make a cloth mask. Here is how:

Lastly, keep a safety kit bag ready in case of any drastic changes. The kit items depend on your personal needs, but some items you may need include dressings, antiseptic, medications, thermometer, etc.
I receive cancer treatment at a medical facility. What should I do about getting treatment?

If you are receiving treatment for your cancer, please call your doctor provider before going to your next treatment appointment and follow their guidance. As health care systems adjust their activities to address COVID-19, doctors treating cancer patients may also have to change when and how cancer treatment and follow-up visits are carried out. The risk of missing a cancer treatment or medical appointment must be weighed against the possibility of exposing a patient to infection.

Some cancer treatments can be safely delayed, while others cannot. Some routine follow-up visits may be safely delayed or conducted through phone calls.

The coronavirus situation is changing daily, with states making changes in how they are handling specific situations, so check with your provider as needed.
What should I do if I have symptoms of an infection?