The Tale of Two C’s, Cancer and COVID-19: Oncologist’s Viewpoint from India

Abstract

Cancer as a malady is perspicacious and molds itself just before we reach to stab it, on the other hand, COVID-19, an entity with limited genetic material is affecting entire humanity in such a florid way is overwhelming and the mechanism is so simple yet so authoritative.COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all dimensions of mankind with maximum impact on the healthcare system and economy. We the oncologists are so constrained and helpless due to a blooming pandemic, which we have never seen in recent history. We wish to highlight certain issues pertaining to cancer care, which became relevant in such vacillating anticipation. Another dimension needs consideration for limited resources countries; they will always be in the state of prolonged waitlists, limited availability of quality care centers, and hence inferior cancer outcome. Closing the machinery of radiotherapy, surgical and medical oncologists sitting idle is a big loss for sure. We here discuss and suggest a few need of the hour interventions.

Keywords

• covid-19, cancer care, india