Cancer Research Continues to Provide Hope Even in the Midst of the COVID-19 Crisis

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recently held its annual scientific meeting in a three-day virtual event. One of the major topics addressed at the meeting was the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on cancer patients. As one might expect, ASCO reported, “In patients with cancer and COVID-19, cancer that is progressing was independently associated with an increased risk of death, according to an analysis of 928 patients.”

According to data from the COVID-19 and Cancer
Consortium (CCC19) registry, which included a variety of cancer types, the 30-day mortality and severe illness rates in this group of patients studied were significantly higher than previously reported for the general population. The report concluded that longer follow-up is needed … “to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on outcomes in patients with cancer, including the ability to continue specific cancer treatments.”

As a result of this crisis, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) has instituted many new protocols to help protect the safety and well-being of our patients and clinical staff. These include offering telehealth video appointments to patients when appropriate, visitor restrictions at our clinics, daily health screenings for patients and staff, as well as the use of masks, social distancing and other safety measures.

Despite the concerns COVID-19 is causing, FCS is continuing to pursue cancer research through its strategic partnership with Sarah Cannon Research Institute, one of the leading clinical trial organizations in the world. The clinical research program at FCS encompasses Phase I, Phase II and Phase III trials for a wide range of cancer types; the majority of new cancer treatments approved for use in the U.S. were first studied in clinical trials with FCS participation, prior to approval.

Florida Cancer Specialists
For more information, visit FLCancer.com

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