Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Patients: Challenges and Practical Approach to Management

Abstract

The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has rapidly spread worldwide, which poses great challenges to the healthcare system around the world. This pandemic has shown that globally medical community has no care- models to deal with the effects imposed on patients with chronic illnesses. Appropriate and timely diagnosis and treatment of this highly vulnerable immunocompromised population is mandatory. Prominent challenges faced during the current outbreak include resource allocation, management of patients suffering from and follow-up-phases, patient fear and protection of healthcare workers. During Pandemic, the major management strategies for cancer patients comprise education about personal protective measures, symptoms of COVID- 19, emotional support, clear communication about infection control measures and clinical care. To decrease the risk of exposure, active individualized cancer intervention is required with reduce outpatient visits and maximum telemedicine. Currently, international guidelines to manage cancer patients in any infectious pandemic are not available. The development of a complete contingency plan with guidelines for the safety and patients care will pose beneficial effects by minimizing the risks of morbidity and mortality.