In the situation where Thailand and the world are facing the pandemic of COVID-19, cancer patients must take care of their health to cope with the situation during the ongoing pandemic. Many cancer patients wonder if they are at higher risk than the general population and if the treatment and medication approach differ if they contract COVID-19 . Therefore, knowing the correct way to handle it should not be overlooked.
10 ways cancer patients should know to take care of themselves during COVID-19
- Cancer patients undergoing treatment or chemotherapy should continuously visit the doctor as scheduled to ensure effective treatment.
- Always wear a mask and carry alcohol gel when leaving the house.
- Choose good quality standard masks. If using a fabric mask, it must be capable of preventing airborne droplets.
- Avoid unnecessary crowded places and maintain social distancing from others.
- Eat nutritious food, with all 5 food groups, focusing on protein.
- Exercise moderately, suitable for doing at home.
- In case of cancer patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, chronic liver or kidney disease, respiratory diseases, and immunodeficiency, who are at high risk if infected with COVID-19, which might be severe and life-threatening, the doctor will consider and prescribe drugs individually.
- Lung cancer patients must take special care of their health to strengthen the lungs and the body, whether it be eating nutritious food, exercising appropriately, getting enough rest, not leaving the house unless necessary except for medical appointments, wearing masks, carrying hand sanitizing gel, and maintaining cleanliness at all times.
- Stay Home Stay Healthy, keep a strong physique and mind at home. Find activities, whether it be exercising, reading, listening to music, household chores, or hobbies to relax. Importantly, keep a positive mind to strengthen immunity and generate positive energy for daily life.
- Choose reliable sources of information that present factual and correct data, to prevent panic and behave correctly in every situation.
During COVID-19 , cancer patients should take extra care of their health. If in doubt, they should seek advice from a specialized oncologist to properly take care of themselves in daily life and get through the COVID-19 situation together.
