‘Unusual’ Cancers Emerged After Pandemic. Doctors Ask if COVID-19 is to Blame.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors are observing an increase in “unusual” cancer cases that have left them questioning whether the virus could be a contributing factor. During the pandemic, many people delayed or avoided routine cancer screenings, leading to a decline in early stage cancer diagnoses. However, since restrictions have eased, doctors are seeing a surge in advanced cancer cases. In addition, some patients are developing rare or aggressive types of cancer that were not typically seen before the pandemic. For instance, there has been an uptick in cases of triple-negative breast cancer and glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. “We are seeing more and more cases of very advanced cancers, and we are also seeing more and more cases of rare and aggressive types of cancers,” said Dr. Richard Schilsky, chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society. Researchers are now investigating whether COVID-19 infection could be linked to the emergence of these “unusual” cancers. One theory is that the virus may weaken the immune system, allowing dormant cancer cells to grow and spread. Studies have shown that COVID-19 can cause inflammation and damage to the immune system, which could make people more susceptible to developing cancer. Additionally, the virus has been found to promote angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which is necessary for cancer growth. “It is still too early to say definitively whether COVID-19 is directly causing these cancers, but the evidence is certainly suggestive,” said Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, vice provost for global initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania. Doctors are urging people to resume routine cancer screenings and to be vigilant about any new or unusual symptoms that may indicate cancer. “If you are experiencing any new or unusual symptoms that could be related to cancer, it is important to see your doctor right away,” said Dr. Schilsky. “Early detection and treatment is crucial for the best possible outcomes.” The rise in “unusual” cancers following the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for further research into the potential long-term effects of the virus and the importance of maintaining good health practices, including regular cancer screenings.
‘Unusual’ Cancers Emerged After Pandemic. Doctors Ask if COVID Is to Blame
*
[CNN](https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/23/health/unusual-cancers-covid-pandemic-wellness/index.html)
*
[Medical Xpress](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-02-unusual-cancers-emerged-pandemic-doctors.html)
*
[The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/feb/23/unusual-cancers-emerged-after-pandemic-doctors-ask-if-covid-is-to-blame)
Summary:
Medical professionals have noticed an increase in the incidence of unusual cancers, particularly among younger patients, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. These cancers include rare forms of soft tissue sarcomas, lymphomas, and leukemias. Experts are investigating whether there is a potential link between COVID-19 infection and the development of these cancers. Possible explanations include: *
Weakened immune system:
COVID-19 can suppress the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to cancer growth. *
Inflammatory response:
The inflammation caused by COVID-19 may promote the formation of cancer cells. *
Treatment side effects:
Some COVID-19 treatments, such as radiation therapy, can increase the risk of secondary cancers. *
Delayed diagnoses:
The pandemic disrupted healthcare services, leading to delays in cancer screenings and diagnoses. Researchers emphasize that the observed increase in unusual cancers is still small and more research is needed to establish causality. They also note that the incidence of most common cancers has not increased significantly during the pandemic. However, the findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance and early detection of cancers, especially among individuals who have had COVID-19. Patients with any unusual symptoms or concerns should consult with their healthcare providers promptly.