Breast cancer patients worldwide face a dilemma like never before, how to navigate the breast cancer situation when the world has changed overnight. Breast cancer treatment in Delhi, India, and worldwide has had to evolve in a short time to accommodate the changing circumstances. You must be wondering about the risks of Covid-19 in breast cancer patients, and how to take precautions against them. So, what are cancer specialists suggesting?
Let’s talk about the risks of Covid-19 in breast cancer patients. First off, researchers and breast cancer specialists around the world have said it several times over that no correlation has been found between different cancers, including breast cancer, and an increase in Covid-19 infection rates. What does this mean?
Here are a few FAQS regarding Covid-19 infection rates in cancer patients.
1. Does Covid-19 effect cancer patients more?
Answer
Technically, no. Covid-19 is not more prevalent in cancer patients because of cancer itself. There is no correlation between cancer and Covid-19.
2. Why are oncologists in Noida, Delhi, India, and worldwide asking cancer patients, including breast cancer patients, to practice caution?
Answer
As we have mentioned earlier, breast cancer treatment in India and worldwide has had to evolve exponentially due to this pandemic; however, the treatments still affect the patients' immune system. Most cancer treatments weaken the patients' immune system, at least when they are ongoing. Even patients a little into remission do not have intact immune systems.
So, we all know now that the chances of Covid-19 infection increase with the decrease in immunity are high. Additionally, doctors have also pointed out that immunocompromised or immunosuppressed people also have higher chances of experiencing the worst symptoms of Covid-19 should they get the disease. Cancer patients are asked to practice caution because of their weakened immune system.
Risk Assessment for breast cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic
· According to some of the best breast cancer doctors in Delhi NCR, India, and the world, like Dr. Manish Singhal, low immunity due to ongoing breast cancer treatment can increase the chances of virus infection.
· Breast cancer specialists also point out the increase in the severity of Covid-19 symptoms in breast cancer patients suffering from Covid-19.
· Unplanned missed doses because of the inability to visit hospitals and clinics offering breast cancer treatment can cause more harm than good. Most of the world is in lockdown, travelling has become very difficult; while some people can stay at home for long periods, breast cancer patients seeking or receiving treatments cannot.
· Lack of support is prevalent in the post-lockdown world where supportive healthcare personnel are unable to help breast cancer patients. Remission is delayed, mental health is worsening day by day, and additional care is absent.
Precautions that can help breast cancer patients
· Change the treatment POV
1. Reduce hospital visits by choosing an oral alternative to chemotherapy.
2. Modify chemotherapy schedules to reduce clinical visits.
3. G-CSF growth factor can be utilized to minimize neutropenia, and dexamethasone can be used to reduce immunosuppression.
4. Endocrine therapies administered orally do not affect immune systems adversely and hence, can be used as usual.
5. Telemedicine can be used regularly to monitor safe treatment administration.
6. Bone agents can be delivered at minimal hospital access.
7. Some treatments which can be postponed, should be postponed, especially in the older generation.
8. Inhibitors without immediate priority should be avoided to ensure that the immune system remains in fightable state.
9. Drug holidays should be encouraged whenever possible.
· Change in additional health care POV
1. Any additional care patients need including remission therapy can be administered through telemedicine if possible with breast cancer specialist’s advice.
2. Mental health can be enriched through sessions with your psychologist or psychiatrist over phone or on video calls.
3. Meditation, breathing exercises, and other calming practises can also help aid mental health betterment.
· Change in transport POV
You cannot travel as easily as before because of the high Covid-19 infection risks, but if needed, you can always call the ambulance in emergencies. You can also get a special permit that allows you to travel for health if possible. It is advised that people practice social distancing and hygiene vigorously if they have to get out of the house.
Wrapping it up
Breast cancer treatment in India and worldwide will develop and transform as required by the circumstances, and some of it already has. However, it is of utmost necessity for you to make all your decisions regarding your condition, treatment, and the road ahead after consulting the best cancer doctor in town. If you're in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, or anywhere in India, you can choose to consult Dr. Manish Singhal, one of the best breast cancer doctor in Delhi.