As the world marks the grim milestone of 5 million COVID-19 deaths, health systems and patients are living under the threat of a second COVID-19 related health disaster—an acceleration of illness and mortality born of health care delayed or abandoned over the course of the pandemic.
This is particularly acute among those living with cancer. Patients already diagnosed may have seen lifesaving treatment deferred. Others have missed the opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention.
This article is part of a series in which OECD experts and thought leaders — from around the world and all parts of society — address the COVID-19 crisis, discussing and developing solutions now and for the future. Aiming to foster the fruitful exchange of expertise and perspectives across fields to help us rise to this critical challenge, opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the OECD.
