Implementing continued radiation therapy for cancer management in low resource countries during and after the COVID-19 crisis.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Oncologists have an arduous task of weighing the urgency of treating cancer patients against risk for COVID-19 exposure, especially in low resource countries, where there is shortage of radiation equipment, personnel as well as resources to deal with the crisis. Strategic planning to control the spread of infection is critical in this susceptible patient population as well as healthcare workers involved in radiation delivery.Areas covered We reviewed all the available literature and present feasible strategies for sustainable and continued care of cancer patients amidst this pandemic.Expert opinion Further research is warranted to maintain and improve survival outcomes for cancer patients in spite of necessary restrictions.