If you are living with cancer, you may be experiencing a lot of questions and fears about the COVID-19 pandemic. "What if I get this?", "Can I continue taking my medications?", etc., are probably running through your mind. This is something to think about. Because cancer patients are at a slightly higher risk of COVID-19 than the general population. Today, let's talk about what you need to know about this in simple terms.
COVID-19 Infection and Your Immune System
Simply put, a person with cancer is more likely to develop any infection. The reason for this is that the immune system is weakened.
Think of our body's immune system as an army that protects a country . This army is what protects us from diseases by fighting off enemies like viruses and bacteria that enter the body from outside.
When you have cancer, sometimes the cancer itself weakens this army. Other times, the cancer treatment weakens this army. For example, treatments like chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants reduce the number of white blood cells in the body. These white blood cells are the most important soldiers in our army. So when they are low, a virus like COVID-19 is more likely to enter the body and cause serious illness.
Even if you are a cancer survivor, your immune system may not be fully restored, so you should still be careful.
Also, some cancers affect specific organs, such as the lungs and kidneys. When an organ is not working properly, the body's ability to fight infection is reduced. While most people who get COVID-19 experience mild symptoms, if a cancer patient gets it, the illness can be more serious.
Impact of COVID-19 on cancer treatment
This is a question that many people have. "Will I have to stop my medication because of COVID-19?" The decision on this depends on several factors.
If the risk of COVID-19 is very high in your area, your doctor will talk to you and decide whether to continue your treatment or postpone it until the virus has subsided. Sometimes, stopping treatment for a while and staying home can save you from having to go to the hospital or treatment center.
However, in some cases, it may be necessary to continue treatment. In such cases, your doctor will make the best and safest decision based on the type of cancer, the stage, and everything else. So don't be afraid of this. Talk openly with your doctor.
If you haven't started treatment yet, your medical team will advise you on the best time to start treatment, taking your safety into account. Also, if you are participating in a clinical trial, find out if it is still ongoing or has been temporarily stopped.
How to protect yourself?
As someone living with cancer, it's important to be more careful than ever during this pandemic. Here are some things you can do:
- Don't leave the house except for essentials.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer when water is not available.
- Keep a distance of at least 2 meters (about 6 feet) from others.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, counters, phones) with disinfectant.
- Never touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- If possible, bring home a few weeks' worth of medications and essential supplies.
- If you go out, be sure to wear a face mask.
Stay in touch with your doctor and be aware of your symptoms.
Even if your treatment has ended or is temporarily suspended, it's important to stay in touch with your medical team. If necessary, explore ways to talk to your doctor from home (telemedicine visits).
Also, be sure to know exactly what the symptoms of COVID-19 are. That way, if you have the slightest suspicion that you may have the disease, you can take action quickly.
| Common COVID-19 symptoms |
|---|
| Cough |
| Difficulty breathing |
| Fever and chills |
| Muscle pain |
| Sore throat |
| Loss of smell or taste |
Especially remember!
If you are undergoing cancer treatment, your immune system may be weakened and you may not show symptoms of a fever. So, even if you don't have a fever, be aware of other symptoms.
If you think you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. He or she will ask you about your symptoms and decide whether you need to be tested for COVID-19. If your symptoms worsen, seek medical advice immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Cancer patients and those undergoing cancer treatment are at increased risk of complications if they develop COVID-19.
- A weak immune system is the main reason for this.
- If there are any changes to your cancer treatment plan, only your doctor will make that decision. So stay in touch with your doctor.
- Practice health habits like hand washing, wearing a mask, and social distancing more strictly than ever.
- Be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19. If you have any doubts, inform your doctor immediately.
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