COVID-19: Collateral damage in head and neck oncology and preventive measures for future pandemics

Abstract

The start of the COVID-19 pandemic led to enormous challenges for global healthcare, as capacities and resources had to be made available quickly for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. As a result, restrictions had to be accepted, especially in the care of oncological patients. The collateral damage of these limitations inevitably also affects patients with head and neck cancer. This review article summarizes the development of tumor incidences during the pandemic, internationally developed guidelines for the care of patients with head and neck cancer and studies on the delay in oncological therapies and mortality. In addition, the effects on the mental health of the patients, the psychosocial consequences and ethical issues are examined. In perspective, preventive measures for such negative collateral effects in future pandemics are discussed using the example of a concept for application software (app)-based digital care for patients with head and neck cancer.