Cancer Patients Warned on COVID-19 Precautions

Coronavirus (COVID-19), which threatens the entire world, can progress more severely in cancer patients in particular and can pose life-threatening risks. Noting that cancer patients' immune systems may be weak and therefore more susceptible to infections, Prof. Dr. Şeref Kömürcü, Medical Oncology Specialist at Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi, stated: "Cancer patients should isolate themselves from their surroundings during this period and, in addition to balanced nutrition, pay much greater attention to hygiene rules than ever before." The most common cancers worldwide are, in order: lung, breast, colorectal, prostate and skin cancers. In Turkey, breast, lung, thyroid and colorectal cancers are the most frequently seen cancers in women; while in men, lung, prostate and colorectal cancers lead.

Pointing out that approximately 200,000 new cancer diagnoses are made annually in Turkey, Prof. Dr. Şeref Kömürcü, Medical Oncology Specialist at Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi, offered 15 recommendations to cancer patients for protection against Coronavirus:

1. Wash your hands with water and soap for 20 seconds after touching anything. In places without water and soap, you can also use hand sanitizers or 80-degree cologne.
2. Do not touch your face with your hands. It is especially important not to have contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. The virus spreads from these areas.
3. Do not shake hands with or have contact with anyone, including family members. Maintain at least 1-1.5 meters distance between yourself and other people. Avoid accepting visitors as much as possible.
4. Stay away from people who are coughing or sneezing. The virus can be transmitted to you through droplets. When necessary, especially when going outside, wear a mask.
5. Avoid enclosed spaces and do not frequent crowded places.
6. Do not travel during this period.
7. Drink plenty of water.
8. Perform the exercises recommended by your doctor. Exercise strengthens the immune system.
9. Pay attention to getting good sleep. Healthy sleep strengthens the immune system.
10. Consume fruits and vegetables recommended by your doctor. Healthy nutrition is important for a strong immune system.
11. Avoid bad habits such as smoking.
12. Spend as much time at home as possible and do not accept visitors.
13. Do not go to hospitals except in emergencies. Do not interrupt your chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted treatments. During this pandemic period, always use masks and gloves when going to and from the hospital.
14. If you have complaints such as cough, fever or shortness of breath, consult your doctor.
15. Do not panic thinking that the COVID-19 pandemic period is temporary; take your precautions.