Researchers reported that approximately 10,000 patients canceled elective surgeries in 2020. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, surgical procedures for colorectal cancer decreased during the initial year of the pandemic due to reduced screening and diagnosis caused by COVID-19 restrictions and fears of contracting the virus. The study analyzed data from the National Cancer Database and found a 17.3% decrease in colorectal cancer surgeries among over 105,000 patients in 2020 compared to 2019. The study highlighted that patients who underwent surgery in 2020 had more advanced stages of cancer compared to those treated in 2019. The study warned about the long-term consequences of delayed screenings and treatments for colorectal cancer, with an estimated deficit of 3.8 million screenings in the U.S. due to the widespread avoidance of medical care during the pandemic. The study emphasized the need for further research to understand the lasting effects of delayed cancer care. I also suggest paying attention to your body and ensuring you undergo your recommended cancer screenings.
A study conducted in May 2021, which examined the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on cancer care, found a significant impact from these measures. The study reported a decrease in patient visits and treatments received from January to May 2020.
Another study from March 2022 in France explored how lockdowns contributed to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety in cancer patients. The study revealed that the fear of contracting COVID-19 at hospitals was a major predictor of PTSD, while anxiety was primarily linked to the fear of cancer recurrence.
Researchers advised healthcare providers not to prioritize COVID-19 over cancer care, as cancer remains a critical concern for patients.
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