Cancer Care In Times Of Covid
Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, the novel Coronavirus is continuously evolving at a striking rate, making things difficult for scientists and doctors around the globe. Every time the virus passes from one person to another it picks up tiny changes to its genetic code. Scientists, all around the world are trying to understand the patterns in how the virus is evolving and mutating.
It has been accurately stated that older people and people with some major health problems such as heart diseases, diabetes, cancer, Hypertension etc. are at a higher risk from the spread of the novel virus.
The recent outbreak of Covid-19 and the rate at which it is spreading is also a matter of great concern for cancer patients. For people with life threatening diseases like cancer, AIDS; it is wise that such patients have a thorough understanding about the impact of Covid-19 on them.
How are cancer patients at a higher risk?
As per the data from various countries, coronavirus can have adverse effects on the health of cancer patients in a number of ways. They are thought to be immune suppressed, which means that their body no longer has the capacity to fight with the mutant unlike any other average person. As Cancer treatments like, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and major surgeries can adversely affect their immune system, so cancer patients are highly vulnerable to the virus.
Are precautions taken by a normal person sufficient for Cancer patients?
General precautions like washing hands, using an alcohol-based sanitizer, wearing a mask and maintaining social distance, avoiding crowded & closed places etc. are to be followed religiously, especially by people with medical conditions. There are no special precautions one can take, but changes in treatment protocols can be made to reduce the stress and suffering of such patients. If a patient is at a low risk of recurrence, chemotherapy can be avoided or at least delayed thereby avoiding its impact on the immunity of the patient. Since the second wave of Covid has been quite scary more precautions are needed for patient with existing ailments.
How can cancer patients, especially on chemotherapy boost their immunity?
There are a variety of tools available that can help them to boost their immunity. One of the most critical of all is what the patients are eating. Fresh fruits & vegetables, Green salads and plenty of liquids are highly suggested. The cancer patients are also advised for light aerobic exercises, yoga, pranayam, deep breathing exercises to build up immunity. Certain medicines like multivitamins, antioxidants, trace elements are also of great help in increasing the immunity. But these medicines taken under strict guidance from the oncologist.
Should Cancer patients continue visiting hospitals in Covid?
Due to pandemic, patients with critical health issues are avoiding visiting hospitals because of the fear of infection. According to some doctors, patients avoiding regular visits and/or delaying their treatments can have severe repercussions. Keeping in mind, the prevailing conditions, the fear is understandable. In such a situation, teleconsultation is a good alternate way with doctors . In case, the doctor recommends visiting hospital for further treatment, then one should go to take the necessary treatment, with all precautions. Basic Covid precautions should be undertaken like using sanitizers, masks and hand washing whenever possible.
It goes without saying, that we are living in unprecedented times and we have to survive through these times by building resilience. No doubt the current situation is an add-on stress for people with existing medical conditions, extra precautions are always beneficial. There is nothing to worry if one can successfully avoid getting infected by taking proper precautions. Everyone should prepare themselves for the third Coivd wave which is presently looking inevitable as per some Government agencies.
About the author -
FACS (Fellow American College of surgeons)
GOLF (Global Online Fellowship), from IFHNOS (International Federation of Head & Neck Oncology Society) Formerly- KMIO, Bengaluru, Senior Surgical Oncologist
