Pandemic is taking terrible toll on patients fighting cancer

CANCER patients in Scotland are living through the ‘worst possible Groundhog Day’, according to a charity.

Research by Macmillan Cancer Support reveals the growing toll of the ongoing crisis on people with the disease.

A survey by the charity reveals 15 per cent of cancer patients in Scotland – around 39,000 people – are worried that disruption from the pandemic could reduce the likelihood of their treatment being successful.

Non-urgent cases of all types, including cancer, have been postponed to free up staff. Many patients have had their treatment plans changed to minimise the risk from Covid.

Screening services were paused for four months last year, leading to a diagnosis backlog. There has also been a drop in the number of patients reporting symptoms to their GPs.

Janice Preston, Macmillan’s head of services in Scotland, said: ‘This is a time of almost unprecedented challenge for people with cancer.

‘We’ve been hearing from the highly experienced staff on our support line that many of those getting in touch are more worried than before and some are really struggling.

‘We know healthcare professionals are doing everything they can to keep cancer care on track, but we also know some treatment is being disrupted. Those going through treatment are often doing so without loved ones by their side, even receiving a diagnosis alone.

‘On top of this, many are scared to go outside because of their vulnerability to coronavirus, leaving them feeling incredibly isolated.

‘For many the pandemic feels like the worst possible Groundhog Day, but we want everyone with cancer to know that they aren’t alone.

‘GPs are open for those worried about possible cancer symptoms and Macmillan’s specially trained teams are on hand on the phone and online every day to provide support.’

The research shows 22 per cent of those with cancer in Scotland – about 57,000 people – are feeling depressed because of Covid-19. Around one in four (27 per cent) feel they will not be able to return to normal activities until there are no new cases of the virus being reported.

Macmillan estimates around 250,000 people with cancer in the UK will be shielding during the latest wave of the virus, with some having done so since the pandemic began.

Meanwhile, at least 16,000 people have been newly diagnosed with cancer in Scotland since March, with many having to hear this devastating news for the first time with no one by their side due to Covid restrictions.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘We are acutely aware that this is a very worrying time for people with cancer and services offered by charities like Macmillan Cancer Support have been hugely valuable during this pandemic – we would encourage people with cancer to make use of them.

‘Our £18million partnership with Macmillan supports this work and aims to make Scotland the first country in the UK where everyone diagnosed with cancer has access to a dedicated support worker who will offer emotional, practical and financial advice.

‘Diagnosing and treating cancer has been and will remain a key clinical priority through the current Covid-19 pandemic, but early detection is key. The NHS remains open for non-coronavirus health concerns. If you are experiencing any new signs or symptoms, GP practices want to hear from you.’

‘This is a very worrying time’