Update from Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH, Vice President of Research
New Resources for Living in High-Risk and Post-Lockdown Regions
In many parts of the country, COVID-19 is a very present reality and concern for people living with lung cancer. But for areas where the infection rate is low, life has resumed a sense of normalcy with some of our favorite pastimes, such as eating in restaurants, spending time with friends, or attending events.
However, it’s essential to remember that even in those post-shelter-in-place regions, we are not yet out of the woods, and we must remain cautious and vigilant against COVID-19. It’s important to keep in mind that the virus is still infectious and you may still be at risk.
While it’s difficult to remain isolated from family and friends and the comforts of our routine activities, lung cancer experts strongly encourage you to continue to protect yourself from the risks of COVID-19 and to refrain from partaking in routine activities that could increase your vulnerability. LUNGevity will continually be creating resources and tools for you to navigate this constantly evolving environment.
Resources for Post-Shelter-in-Place Environment
This week, we published two new Conversations with Healthcare Experts video interviews about adapting to a post-shelter-in-place environment.
The first, featuring Kristin Higgins, MD, Medical Director, Department of Radiology Oncology at Emory University, addresses questions around accessing lung cancer care in the post-shelter-in-place environment. Topics include precautions to take while attending appointments and other procedures, advice specific to radiation therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic, and new protocols that might be in place due to the public health crisis. Watch the video to learn more.
The second, a conversation with medical oncologist Stephen Liu, MD, associate professor of medicine at Georgetown University and director of the Thoracic Oncology and Developmental Therapeutics programs, answers questions from the lung cancer community about navigating clinical trials during COVID-19. Topics include precautions and practices implemented to protect patients undergoing clinical trials and advice for those considering joining a trial or already participating in one. Watch the video for expert advice and to learn more about changes due to COVID-19.
Joint Statement Addressing Pressing Concerns
A new joint statement was also published this week. With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise across the country, we provided updates on:
- What COVID-19 tests are available and which one to choose
- What public health measures are most needed
- Recent thinking on the relative risk of everyday activities
- What COVID-19 mutations mean for you
- Whether or not herd immunity is realistic without a vaccine
Read the joint statement to learn more.
Additional Resources and Support
Our knowledge of COVID-19 remains continuously evolving. As you navigate this public health crisis, be sure to continue to check the COVID-19 and Lung Cancer section of our website frequently for the latest information on living with lung cancer in both high-risk and post-shelter-in-place regions of the country.
The past four months have been a stressful, isolating, and taxing time for many of us, but particularly the lung cancer community, already vulnerable before the public health crisis began. Be sure to check out our Support Services if you need support. If you are feeling isolated or lonely, join us on our Virtual Meetups; separate meetups are available for both caregivers and survivors. Please remember, LUNGevity is here to help you navigate emotionally during these difficult times.
