Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, MSc, a geriatric oncologist and researcher in the Department of Geriatrics at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán in Mexico City, Mexico, discusses ways to reduce the risk of contracting the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 is expected to rise, particularly in older patients with cancer who are more vulnerable to the virus, says Soto Pérez de Celis.

However, the severity of COVID-19 is unpredictable, so patients should take proactive and preventative measures to avoid populated areas and follow the recommendations that have been made by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These strategies can help minimize one’s risk of contracting the virus, concludes Soto Pérez de Celis.

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Dr. Soto Perez de Celis on COVID-19 Risk Reduction

Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, MSc, a geriatric oncologist and researcher in the Department of Geriatrics at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán in Mexico City, Mexico discusses nuances of treating older patients with breast cancer.

Although older women with breast cancer account for about half of breast cancer cases worldwide, their representation on clinical trials is very low, ranging from about 15% to 20%, says Soto Pérez de Celis. As a result, there is a lack of data to provide high-quality treatment for this patient population.

As patients age, their organ function, physical capabilities, and tolerance to treatment all change, says Soto Pérez de Celis. All of these factors must be considered when choosing a treatment strategy. The goal is to provide these patients with the best treatment possible while avoiding toxicity. The best way to accomplish this is by undertaking a geriatric assessment, says Soto Pérez de Celis.

For over 50 years, comprehensive geriatric assessments have provided insight to a patient’s cognition, physical function, psychological status, and social support. While these evaluations are not typically performed in an oncology visit, this information can shed light on the biological and functional measures associated with an older patient with breast cancer, concludes Soto Pérez de Celis.

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Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, MSc, discusses nuances of treating older patients with breast cancer.

Enrique Soto Perez de Celis, MD, MSc

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Dr. Soto Perez de Celis on COVID-19 Risk Reduction

Dr. Soto Perez de Celis on Nuances of Treating Older Patients With Breast Cancer