On World Cancer Day, we come together to address the urgent issue of cancer, but also that of COVID-19.
Posted at 10:00 a.m.
While the launch of vaccines in Canada was just beginning in February 2021, a year later, 90% of Canadians aged 12 and older, and almost half of children aged 5 to 11 have received at least a first dose. . Booster doses are now available, providing much-needed protection against the Omicron variant. Exhausted but heroic healthcare workers continue to provide care day in and day out.
However, sometimes it seems like things take one step forward and two steps back. Today, Quebec’s health care system is under enormous pressure. Rising hospitalizations have again forced the cancellation of elective surgeries and medical procedures, and delays in cancer screening are still commonplace.
During this pandemic, we have seen how delaying cancer care can have devastating consequences.
According to a study conducted in Canada, published in the British Medical Journal, a four-week delay in cancer treatment increased the risk of death by about 10%.
In addition, we are aware that the pandemic will have other long-term consequences for cancer. Increased exposure to risk factors such as alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, less frequent doctor visits, and delays in screening and diagnosis of advanced cancers could have serious health implications.
Cancer remains the leading cause of death in Quebec. We have made great strides over the past decades to understand cancer, to provide better treatment options and to save lives. So we don’t want to back down.
Dealing with delays but also investing in prevention
The government can take many steps to deal with the long-term impact of the pandemic on cancer. The most urgent thing is to deal with delays in appointments, screenings, diagnoses and surgeries. We must also focus on prevention and invest in this area. Research shows that four out of ten cancers are preventable. However, we are investing relatively little in strategies that could save lives and ease the strain on our health care system.
The pandemic has also highlighted the essential role of caregivers. The latter are assuming more and more responsibilities and filling the gaps in the health system. Recent surveys from the Canadian Cancer Society reveal higher levels of anxiety among caregivers. Because of the invaluable role they play in helping people with cancer, every effort should be made to highlight their importance and ensure their safety during the pandemic.
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, many communities, namely First Nations, Inuit, Métis, immigrants, visible minorities, low-income people and rural residents were underserved overall. of the spectrum of cancer care. Inequalities have been exacerbated during the pandemic and priority will need to be given to the needs of these groups as soon as possible.
Our government has a responsibility to get us out of this pandemic, but also to build a forward-looking health care system that works for everyone in the country.
Invest in preventive and equitable care. By acting now, we will achieve better results in the future, both for cancer and for other diseases.
Everyone can help maintain our health care system by getting vaccinated and following public health guidelines. The fewer cases of COVID-19 there are, the more people with cancer can receive the care they need and have a better chance of survival.
People should also watch for signs and symptoms of cancer, continue to get regular screening tests, and talk to their doctor if they notice any changes. Early detection of cancer is essential.
As the pandemic enters its third year, it has never been more important to advocate for the needs of people with cancer and their caregivers.