Each day an average of eight individuals find out they have cancer. This translates to 3,000 patients per year. 13,000 residents of Luxembourg currently have cancer. Following cardiovascular disease, cancer is the second highest cause of death.
Prevention plays a big role, which includes no smoking, less alcohol, a healthy diet and frequent exercise.
The decline in diagnoses can be explained by patients who, out of fear for a Covid-19 infection, are too afraid to pay a doctor or hospital a visit. This leads to further isolation.
Further reading: Luxembourg counts 3,000 cancer diagnoses per year
Many patients are also scared of a positive diagnosis, and avoid routine check-ups altogether. Dr Bauer explains, however, that most cancers can be treated if they are discovered early enough. Bauer reiterates the importance for cancer patients to go and get the vaccine, as they are vulnerable patients and may get the jab in phase 2 of the country's vaccination campaign.
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