Cancer Treatment in the Era of COVID-19

Abstract

COVID-19 affected the health care system of India in a bad manner and preventive, curative and supportive services of the cancer patients were delayed. Cancer patients are highly susceptible to the severe form of COVID-19. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), immune response and inflammation establish the interconnection between the two diseases. The severity of COVID-19 is 76% higher in cancer patients. The rapid spread of COVID-19, combined with an unprecedented, near-complete global lockdown, has laid bare the weaknesses in health systems. India established open electronic-communication channels and a process for shared decision making, despite circumstances that preclude face-to-face meetings. Hospitals in India shared best practices and guidelines for cancer treatment during the pandemic by creating a series of webinars available through the National Cancer Grid. India performed extraordinarily in managing COVID-19 and cancer patients effectively.