Clinical Scorecard: Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Patient Survival Rates

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Short-term (one-year) survival rates for cancer patients diagnosed in 2020-2021 were lower than those diagnosed in 2015-2019.
• Survival declines were observed across all cancer stages and multiple cancer types, notably colorectal, prostate, and pancreatic cancers.
• Disruptions to cancer screenings and treatment access during the pandemic likely contributed to worse survival outcomes.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Maintain timely cancer screening and diagnostic services even during healthcare system disruptions.

Management

• Ensure prompt initiation of cancer treatment to mitigate survival declines associated with delayed care.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Monitor short-term survival trends to detect and address pandemic-related impacts on cancer outcomes.

Risks

• Recognize increased mortality risk in cancer patients due to delayed diagnosis and treatment during pandemic conditions.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Over 1 million patients diagnosed with malignant cancer in 2020-2021

Approximately 144,000 deaths within one year post-diagnosis, representing about 17,400 excess deaths compared to pre-pandemic trends

Clinical Best Practices

• Prioritize continuity of cancer screening programs during public health emergencies.
• Implement strategies to reduce delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment initiation.
• Use cancer registry data to track survival outcomes and inform healthcare planning.
• Prepare healthcare systems to maintain oncology services during future pandemics or crises.

References

• JAMA Oncology Study on COVID-19 Impact on Cancer Survival
• American Cancer Society Epidemiology Insights