Cancer Does Not Quarantine

— Maxim Sergeyevich, why do patients who are struggling with cancer or have a history of cancer diagnosed have a high risk of getting COVID-19?

 — Patients diagnosed with cancer are vulnerable to external stimuli and are defenseless even against a minor infection due to weakened immunity. The bone marrow cannot produce enough white blood cells to withstand the virus. Therefore, in a pandemic, they need to carefully observe precautions: wear masks in public places, wash their hands thoroughly after each exit to the street, and treat them with an antiseptic. It is better, of course, to stay home during this period. But if there is a need to visit a place where crowding is possible, be sure to observe the social distance. Remember that a distance of two meters can save a life!

 — Does the mask really save?

 — This is not one hundred percent protection. After all, the virus can also penetrate the mucous membranes of the eyes. But to a certain extent, the mask reduces the risk of disease. Like nasal sprays that create a protective film. The main thing is not to panic. Coronavirus is dangerous for its complications. But if from the virus itself, selective, targeted therapy does not exist today, then with its complications, for example, pneumonia, we can well fight. It is important to listen to your body, do not ignore the ailments! Our people often suffer the disease on their feet. With COVID -19, this will definitely not work. The virus is new, people have not yet developed antibodies to it, for the body this is a serious test.

 — How high is the risk of getting COVID-19 in patients diagnosed with lung cancer?

 — Patients with such a diagnosis or with chronic diseases of the respiratory system, for example, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, are at particular risk. They and their carers, or those in contact with them, need to carefully adhere to the rules for the prevention of coronavirus. The virus is also dangerous for patients who have recently undergone or are currently undergoing chemotherapy and have undergone surgery during the last month. It is this category of people that has the most suppressed immune system. They need to be very careful.

 — If suddenly a person who has had an oncological disease has a fever, does this mean that he has become infected?

 — If oncological patients, even in remission, have low-grade fever for some time (37.0 - 37.9 C) in the absence of signs of acute respiratory diseases, a “diagnostic search” should be made and the progression of the underlying disease should be excluded. If a person is in the process of antitumor therapy (chemo- or radiation) or has recently completed treatment, it is also necessary to exclude possible complications. To do this, contact your oncologist. If the patient observes catarrhal symptoms (signs of acute respiratory viral infections) in combination with subfebrile, febrile (38-38.9) or hectic (39 and above) fever, a viral infection can be suspected. Not necessarily coronavirus, because now is the high season for viral diseases, so do not panic. In any case, if symptoms similar to COVID-19 occur, cancer patients should also consult their doctor.

 — Is it worth it to cancel a specific treatment?

 — If a person has no signs of a respiratory disease, treatment should not be postponed. But if such symptoms appear, you need to consult with a specialist in addition: perhaps the treatment will need to be temporarily suspended. It is impossible to postpone the treatment of cancer patients, as this carries serious risks to their lives. Adjuvant chemotherapy and elective surgery can be postponed only in uncomplicated cases and only in a zone of high epidemiological activity.

 — What would you advise to people who were set an oncological diagnosis?

 — For oncological patients it is very important to stick to a very strict quarantine during the treatment period. If signs of a viral infection are available: ailment, fever, sore throat, cough — you need to call a doctor immediately. If signs of a respiratory illness appear among the relatives of a person with cancer, he or she as much as possible should be isolated from them. Additionally treat common areas in the apartment with antiseptics, avoid direct contact. In addition, attention should be paid to the quality and quantity of sleep, because its systematic deficiency inhibits the human immune system. Follow all the recommendations of doctors, take care of yourself and your family! And be healthy!