This article from Oncology Nursing News reports the results of a survey of 95 kidney cancer patients conducted by Kidney Cancer UK in April 2020 about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the care and treatment of kidney cancer patients.

Three key messages came out of the survey:

  1. Although patients are concerned about COVID-19 they are equally anxious about their cancers
  2. Despite concern about COVID-19, only 16 % would not have surgery if offered for their cancer
  3. The majority of patients would still go to hospital for their scans and clinic appointments during the pandemic.

 

The article concludes that only 96% of the patients surveyed claim to have not yet been tested for COVID-19. There is a clear need for improved communication and support for kidney cancer patients to reassure them about the potential risks and their options for treatment during the pandemic. The health priorities of the patients in this survey suggest that urgent cancer care must continue, despite the challenges of COVID-19.

Read more in Oncology Nursing News here