Bioethical considerations for cancer patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic

According to recently published Chinese data, there is no increase in the incidence of COVID-19 infection in cancer patients; however, cancer patients had a higher incidence of serious events (hospitalization, respiratory complications and intensive care unit [ICU] admission) compared with non-cancer patients (2). According to some preliminary data from China, certain cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy are likely to increase the risk of serious complications due to SARS-CoV-2 infection (2). [...]it is well known that chemotherapy can compromise the immune system of cancer patients and increase their risk of infection. [...]the COVID-19 pandemic has suddenly elucidated an imbalance between medical needs and the available resources in health management. [...]physicians are obliged to choose and select the patients who will benefit from a mechanical ventilator.