Are Those with Cancer at Higher Risk for Coronavirus?

According to Dr. Vadim Gushchin of The Institute for Cancer Care at Mercy, cancer patients with compromised immune systems are at increased risk for complications if they become infected with the coronavirus.

“Some patients do have compromised immune systems, especially those who are on active immunosuppression with chemotherapy, with low white blood cell counts, so they're technically immunosuppressed,” Dr. Gushchin said.

Even those who received chemotherapy treatments over a year ago should still consult their doctor.

“The patient should consult their oncologist to know the specifics of their treatment and whether they are still immunocompromised. But typically, they are at average risk. They are at the same risk to get coronavirus infection; they are at slightly higher risk of developing trouble if they get infected,” Dr. Gushchin said.

While some cancer patients may develop serious complications, Dr. Gushchin said the majority will recover.

Doctors' offices are taking precautions by spacing outpatient visits so waiting rooms are not crowded, rescheduling non-emergent visits and using telemedicine.

To view Dr. Vadim Gushchin’s interview regarding the coronavirus, COVID-19 and cancer patients, click here.