During the critical phase of the covid-19 pandemic in Portugal, “it was an arduous task” to convince many of the patients with cancer to proceed with treatments, revealed Sónia Rego , Hospital da Luz oncologist in the units of Arrábida and Porto, in an interview on Porto Canal . Guest of the TV show “D’Mais”, broadcasted on May 25, the specialist talked about her activity during the state of emergency and gave some advice on how patients with cancer should live this new phase, in order to resume, as far as possible, their normal life. “Oncologic patients already have to be very careful regularly not to contract infections – and now doubly. But just as it is important not to be infected by covid-19, they also cannot suspend the treatments designed to their type of tumour”, stated the physician, explaining some of the measures taken in the hospital units she practices in to reinforce their protection. Among them, the setting-up of exclusive circuits for the circulation of these patients and regular testing to screen for SARS-CoV-2 (in accordance with the guidelines of the General Directorate for Health). “Urgent consultations have never stopped – I did several first consultations during that period – and we gave many follow-up video and phone consultations , to continue to monitor those patients”, she added. In a time where the population in general tries to resume its normal life, Sónia Rego leaves some recommendations to oncologic patients: keep informed, continue treatment in all safety and try to be as much as possible protected in contacts with other people, that should continue to be restricted. Sónia Rego on Porto Canal
