While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to grow, it may be resulting in another, more silent health crisis, an expert at Fox Chase Cancer Center says.
More than one-third of Americans have missed routine cancer screenings during the pandemic, which could mean many cases of cancer have gone undetected.
“The fear is that we’re going to see an uptick of patients in the later stages of cancer,” said Evelyn Gonzalez, senior director of the Office of Community Outreach at Fox Chase.
Finding and treating cancer early on can increase the patient’s chances of survival, with a recent study published by The BMJ showing delaying cancer treatment by even one month could raise a patient’s risk of dying by about 10 percent.
Even while people are staying home and complying with social distancing regulations, they should still be communicating with healthcare providers about cancer screenings, Gonzalez said. A rise in unemployment can also mean a rise in lack of health insurance, meaning people don’t have the funds for screenings.
“COVID has decimated how people are thinking – they’re in survival mode, not really thinking about healthcare needs,” Gonzalez said.
Dec. 7 through 11 marks Cancer Screen Week, a movement founded by the American Cancer Society, Genentech, Rally Health and Stand Up To Cancer. This year more than ever, it’s vital to schedule a screening, or reschedule one that had been previously canceled.
Telehealth conferences are a key solution to remaining in touch with a professional while staying at home. Patients can tell doctors any symptoms they may be experiencing, and can plan in-person visits only if it warrants further examination.
In the event a screening must take place in person, Gonzalez recommends calling institutions and see what they are doing to ensure patients and staff are safe during the pandemic. Fox Chase and its mobile screening unit have taken precautions to ensure all COVID-19 guidelines are adhered to.
“I encourage our communities to be open to speaking with healthcare providers even during this time,” Gonzalez said. ••
Visit FindAHealthCenter.hrsa.gov to find health centers in your ZIP code.
