Abstract :
COVID-19 pandemic is an ongoing global pandemic which has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality. India has been one of the worst affected nations. The second wave has gripped the country in an unforeseen way. In an effort to contain the pandemic, the measures taken have led to all other health conditions taking a back seat. Patients of chronic diseases like cancer, marked by a continuity of care, have been bearing a major brunt. Access to cancer treatment has been disrupted as a result of COVID-19. This adversely affects the outcomes of the disease. This pandemic is here to stay, so cancer services should continue to be provided with due safeguarding of the health personnel and patients against the COVID-19 infections. Due modifications of the treatment schedules for systemic therapy, surgery and radiation treatment should be incorporated as per the guidelines. Vaccination of the immunocompromised, high risk, cancer patients on priority, besides that of the health care providers should be aimed at. In the long term, capacity of primary care physicians needs to be strengthened to provide basic cancer care services using a hub-and-spoke model with tertiary care centres.
Keyword :
COVID-19 infection