The American Cancer Society has joined the chorus of groups urging radiologists and patients to put off routine cancer screenings until the coronavirus pandemic dissipates.
In a March 19 announcement, the group noted that officials across the country are urging individuals to stay at home, where possible, and nonurgent imaging is no exception.
“Most people should seriously consider delaying routine cancer screening, such as the tests we recommend for adults without possible cancer symptoms to detect breast, colon, cervix or lung cancer, until the COVID-19 pandemic subsides,” Richard Wender, MD, chief cancer control officer for the ACS said in a statement.
He added that some hospitals and freestanding imaging centers may already be shutting down these services and taking the decision out of patients’ hands. Wender, however, advised patients to reschedule such screenings as soon as social-distancing measures are lifted. “Remember, these tests save lives,” he said.
The American Cancer Society’s advice follows similar calls from the American College of Radiology and Susan G. Komen. Experts cautioned that those with cancer-like symptoms should still call their provider and determine the best course of action.
Marty Stempniak has covered healthcare since 2012, with his byline appearing in the American Hospital Association's member magazine, Modern Healthcare and McKnight's. Prior to that, he wrote about village government and local business for his hometown newspaper in Oak Park, Illinois. He won a Peter Lisagor and Gold EXCEL awards in 2017 for his coverage of the opioid epidemic.