Challenges and Recommendations for Cancer Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted the daily lives of humanity and the global health system. Cancer patients represent a population at risk for presenting unfavorable outcomes when infected. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the recommendations for the management of the oncological population during this pandemic. Method: PubMed and VHL platforms were used to select articles related to the management of cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, retrieving 16 publications that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: All publications reinforced the need for specific strategies for the management of cancer patients and the importance of preventive measures against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The studies discussed active treatment, palliative care and the mental health of patients and health professionals. Despite its importance, topics such as the future impact of delayed diagnosis and surgical procedures are addressed in less than half of the studies. There are no unanimous protocols for the management of cancer patients during the pandemic. Conclusion: The ideal management is to balance preventive measures against infection by the virus and strategies to offer the best treatment against neoplasms, considering the characteristics of each case, the well-being of patients and health professionals, the impact of late diagnoses and accumulation of surgeries for current and future management of cancer patients and the health system.