Fearing that serious health conditions such as cancer are going untreated during the COVID-19 pandemic, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is launching an awareness campaign to convince Albertans to see their family doctor if they notice symptoms linked to those conditions.
A news release from AHS states that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, data collected by health officials shows that people are increasingly ignoring warning signs of significant health concerns.
It is estimated that there have been approximately 20 per cent fewer diagnoses of various health conditions since the start of the pandemic.
“Cancer diagnosis rates typically increase slightly each year in Alberta; however, our data shows that well over 2,000 cancers have gone undiagnosed since the COVID pandemic started last March, compared to data from the same period in 2019,” says Dr. Doug Stewart, physician and medical oncologist with AHS.
“This is very alarming. We are now seeing cases where Albertans did not seek medical attention for several months after they first noticed warning symptoms and their diagnosis is unfortunately more serious than it could have been if it was caught earlier.”
The release states that when a select group of Albertans were asked why they may not seek medical attention for these symptoms, they indicated that they were either afraid to contract COVID-19 or that they didn’t want to take resources away from those who may need it.
“Your family doctor is there for you and available to assist if you are experiencing health concerns such as new changes to your body,” said Dr. Linda Slocombe, senior medical director of primary health care with AHS.
“Primary care offices are screening patients for the necessary safety precautious to protect patients and staff. They are safe places to seek care when needed. Please contact your doctor and do not delay if you have health concerns.”
The awareness campaign is initially focused on symptoms that may be linked to a cancer diagnosis such as changes to a mole, blood in urine, a new or growing lump, trouble urinating (particularly for men) or unexplained weight loss or gain.
The campaign is initially taking the form of online promotion, as AHS has set up a webpage discussing cancer symptoms and when to see a doctor at ahs.ca/bodytalk.
“Everyone wants to do the right thing during the pandemic and this should include visiting a doctor if they have a health concern,” said Alberta health minister Tyler Shandro.
“The health system in Alberta has been and continues to be open to help diagnose and manage illness and disease. I encourage Albertans to seek medical help when needed.”
