Cancer and COVID-19 Resources

Hester Hill Schnipper, LICSW, OSW-C Program Manager Emeritus, Oncology, Social Work

APRIL 29, 2020

Cancer patient searches for online COVID-19 information

Facts matter. In difficult times, facts matter even more. All the news, bulletins, and rumors flying around can easily be overwhelming and scary. Those of us who are living with cancer likely feel even more vulnerable and worried than others — although no one is feeling completely strong, healthy, and safe these days.

It is important to remind yourself that not everything you hear or read is true. Always consider the source. Fox News may be describing a situation differently than CNN. These differences can be upsetting or confusing or infuriating, but right now they might even be dangerous. Knowing the truth matters.

Any specific questions or worries that you have about your own health need to go directly to your doctor. If the question is COVID-19-related, start with your PCP. If the question is related to your cancer or cancer treatment, perhaps with the new layer of virus concern, start with your oncologist.

People who are currently receiving cancer treatment are considered to be at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they are diagnosed with the coronavirus. When you hear that people with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk, this refers to people who are currently ill or being treated for cancer. It does not include you if your cancer is distant, and you are doing fine. To be clear, just because you had cancer sometime in the past, you are not part of the higher risk group unless there are other health-related issues. If you are worried about your specific situation, ask your doctor.

Here is a list of resources for people who are concerned about both cancer and COVID-19.

Above content provided by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.

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