We are still in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis, the aftermath will probably be a lot more devastating or hopeful; we'll know when we get there. However, people are already suffering from the consequences of the virus-induced pandemic health-wise, especially breast cancer patients, actually, ALL cancer patients. It is normal to feel lost. There are a lot of questions, a lot of myths, and a sea of confusion in the community. For in-depth answers, you can always consult a reputed cancer specialist like Dr. Manish Singhal, considered to be the best oncologist in Delhi NCR. But, we are here to bust some myths and answer some questions to make your life a little bit easier.
Let’s bust some myths
Myth 1
Breast cancer patients are at a higher risk of getting covid-19
Reality
No. There is no proof of breast cancer patients' increased vulnerability to coronavirus infection. However, as a precaution, breast cancer patients should consult a cancer specialist to get some valuable recommendations during the pandemic because although they are not vulnerable to get infected any more than non-cancer individuals, some of these patients might have compromised immune system which can lead to them getting severe symptoms should they get infected with the novel coronavirus.
Myth 2
People in remission from breast cancer are vulnerable to COVID-19
Reality
No. Again, there is no proof that people in remission or cancer survivors are at a higher risk of getting COVID-19. Everything depends on the immune system. If your immune system was ever affected by cancer treatment and has since recovered, then you are at no higher risk than anybody else.
Myth 3
If breast cancer patients get Covid-19, they’ll die
Reality
Not at all. As a cancer patient in treatment or in remission, or even as a cancer survivor, if you get COVID-19, there is a high chance that you will RECOVER. For immunocompromised breast cancer patients, yes, the COVID-19 symptoms might become severe; the stressor here is at MIGHT. It really depends on your all-around health.
Myth 4
Breast cancer patients should avoid exercising during the pandemic
Reality
No. Exercising is good at all times. In fact, exercising can enhance your immunity. So, keep on exercising through the pandemic. But, do it in your house as much as possible. If you need to exercise outside, maintain social distancing at all times, and follow the other recommended steps.
Myth 5
Breast cancer patients should avoid surgery at any cost during the pandemic
Reality
No. You cannot make such a decision all by yourself. You need to consult your cancer specialist, or if you need a second opinion or a fresh perspective during these difficult times, you can consult an experienced cancer specialist who is keeping up with the need of the hour, like Dr. Manish Singhal, offering the best breast cancer treatment in Delhi.
Myth 6
Breast cancer patients cannot use homemade masks during the COVID-19 pandemic
Reality
of course, they can. Cloth masks made at home are just as good as any other expensive mask, even for breast cancer patients.
Myth 7
Breast cancer patients should maintain social distancing for a longer time
Reality
Okay, the confusion here is primarily between social distancing and social isolation. Everybody should be social distancing now, and we don't know till when. But, that does not mean you should isolate yourself. Be in contact with your family and friends through digital media and calls.
Myth 8
Spraying alcohol on the skin is good enough to keep Covid-19 away
Reality
Do not spray alcohol directly onto your skin; that will do more harm than good. Yes, use hand sanitizers to keep your hands germ free when you cannot wash them with soap and water, but, that's it.
Myth 9
Breast cancer patients should move to a less populated rural area to decrease the chances of infection
Reality
No. Moving away from the city might mean moving away from all the high-end medical facilities for you. That is not at all feasible for cancer patients. Keep close to the medical facilities, keep close to your cancer specialist, and stay safe.
Some FAQS
Since we have already covered some of the myths and realities of breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic, we'll now delve into some of the common questions.
Should cancer patients postpone their treatment due to this pandemic?
If your treatment can be postponed, then you can just to be safe. But, you HAVE to work with your cancer specialist to devise a treatment plan that works for you. If required, consult the best cancer doctor in town, for Delhi residents, it is Dr. Manish Singhal, a renowned cancer specialist in Delhi.
Should you decrease your number of visits to the clinic or hospital during the pandemic?
Again, do not take this decision by yourself. You can talk about oral treatment options; delayed surgeries if possible, take help from telemedicine when possible, and use every resource there is to talk to your doctor about devising a safe plan for you.
For doctors who are providing in-home treatment options, is it safe?
Yes, under your cancer specialist's observation, it is safe to opt for in-home treatments. However, very few doctors are offering these services. For example, Dr. Manish Singhal, one of the best breast cancer doctor in Delhi NCR.
Few parting words
There is a lot of fear and confusion among cancer patients during these times due to the mixed information around them. It is best to get your information from the source, i.e., your cancer specialist, instead of illegitimate sources all around.
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