2022 World Conference on Lung Cancer (ePosters)-EP06.01-013. Differences of Oncology Treatment for Lung Cancer Patients in Pandemic COVID-19 Year: Our Clinical Experience

EP06.01-013. Differences of Oncology Treatment for Lung Cancer Patients in Pandemic COVID-19 Year: Our Clinical Experience

Back to course

Pdf Summary

This study examined the differences in oncology treatment for lung cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period in North Macedonia. The National Health Service in Macedonia had to prioritize COVID-19 services, leading to a halt in routine elective hospital care. The study analyzed 725 patients in the pre-pandemic year and 749 patients in the pandemic year, stratifying them based on age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score, histology differentiation, and method of lung cancer diagnosis. <br /><br />The results showed that in the pandemic year, there was a significant increase in undefined histology cases of lung cancer compared to the pre-pandemic year. The majority of patients were between the ages of 60-70, with NSCLC being the most common histology. The pandemic also led to a decrease in the number of operated cases.<br /><br />The study identified challenges in diagnosing lung cancer during the pandemic, including an increase in advanced stage and undefined cases. The strict screening and admission criteria implemented by hospitals may have had an impact on the treatment course of lung cancer patients. Interruptions in routine treatment during the pandemic can lead to tumor progression and increased mortality rates.<br /><br />In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on lung cancer treatment in Macedonia. The increase in undefined histology cases and a decrease in the number of surgeries highlight the challenges faced by healthcare systems during this time. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of the pandemic on lung cancer outcomes and to develop strategies to mitigate these effects.

Asset Subtitle

Simonida Crvenkova

Meta Tag

Speaker Simonida Crvenkova

Topic Management of Lung Cancer in the Era of COVID-32

Keywords

oncology treatment

lung cancer patients

COVID-19 pandemic

North Macedonia

histology differentiation

method of lung cancer diagnosis

undefined histology cases

NSCLC

treatment course

healthcare systems