February 1, 2021 | Kelly Long, BS, CPC, CPCO, CAPM
World Cancer Day, which falls on Feb 4, 2021 seeks to build awareness across the international community that cancer can lead to preventable suffering and injustice, and that efforts are needed to significantly reduce illness and death from the disease. As an individual who has worked in the health care industry for over 20 years, I have seen my share of medical documentation where a patient has been given this devastating diagnosis and must suddenly learn to navigate a new reality of medical appointments, treatment plans and staggering life changes.
According to the American Cancer Society:
Preventive measures play such an important role in the early detection of many cancers. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, the American Cancer Society was one of many organizations that recommended routine cancer screenings and elective medical procedures be postponed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This guidance, compounded by the fear of catching COVID-19 in health care settings, resulted in a steep drop in routine screenings. Today, screenings and preventive visits with health care providers are slowly getting back to pre-COVID .
Oncology providers highly recommend their patients compile their own personal medical record following a cancer diagnosis. According to American Society of Clinical Oncology, a complete personal medical record should include the following information:
It’s reassuring and important to note that more than one-third of cancer cases can be prevented, while another third can be cured if detected early and treated properly. Treatment options and scientific knowledge continue to advance and despite the negative impact of COVID-19, I believe we can continue to rally to address cancer in our communities and as a nation.
The 2021 theme for World Cancer Day is “I Am and I Will.” This theme seeks to counter negative attitudes and the fatalistic belief that nothing can be done about cancer. Instead, our personal actions can be powerful and impactful. Let us stand together and continue to support those affected by cancer and continue the diligent work towards a cure.
Kelly Long is a clinical development analyst with 3M Health Information Systems.