COVID-19 has taken its toll on the physical, mental, and financial health of our country in the last few months. For those facing other life challenges like a separate medical crisis, all of these stressors have likely been magnified. Cancer, in particular, can bring with it a host of questions for the patient, and when it comes to the possible intersection of COVID-19 and cancer, the unknowns are even greater—which is why it’s essential that anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer or who is a survivor confers with their doctor to ensure they know all of their risks and responsibilities.
COVID-19 and Cancer: Ask Your Physician
- Does cancer increase my risk for contracting COVID-19? Cancer weakens the patient’s immune system, a process that can increase the risk for more severe reactions to illnesses like COVID-19. Research is still in its earlier stages and it’s not yet clear whether having cancer, or previously having had it, make patients more susceptible, but it is evident that COVID-19 and cancer interact in such a way that, if a patient tests positive, he or she may have a more serious case of COVID-19 than a non-cancer patient.
- What are the precautions those concerned about COVID-19 and cancer should be taking? The CDC and other health organizations advise those at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 to stay home as much as possible, as frequent or prolonged contact with others greatly enhances the risk for contracting the illness. If you do have to go out, wear protective equipment like masks. Speak with your doctor for more information about COVID-19 and cancer in your specific community, as regions around the nation are all reopening in different ways, so it’s important to know what you should be doing to take care of yourself in your own area.
- Will the pandemic affect my cancer care? Sticking to your cancer treatment plan, despite the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, is essential. Speak with your physicians about the next steps in your care and avoid skipping appointments or treatments, as successful cancer care needs to be consistent. Healthcare facilities around the nation have remained up and running and employ the most rigorous precautions to protect their at-risk patients, including those concerned about COVID-19 and cancer.
Keep yourself educated about the latest health recommendations about COVID-19 and cancer and stay in frequent contact with your physicians so that you can face both challenges with an informed and proactive strategy.
Can I get Help With Cancer Costs During COVID-19?
Consult with your life insurance company to learn more about your policy’s cash value and any existing benefit riders. A Living Benefit Loan from Life Credit could help you access financial support for cancer costs during COVID-19. Take a look at our simple loan process and find out if you quality to borrow from your life insurance policy’s death benefit. Contact a Life Credit representative today.
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