Recommendations on Management of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: an Iranian Consensus

Abstract

Purpose: Today, the rapid outbreak of COVID-19 is the leading health issue. Patients with cancer are at high risk for the development of morbidities of COVID-19. Hence, oncology centers need to provide organ-based recommendations for optimal management of cancer in the COVID-19 era. Methods: In this article, we have provided the recommendations on management of locally advanced rectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic based on our experience in Shohada-e Tajrish Hospital, Iran. Results: We recommend that patients with locally advanced rectal cancer should be managed in an individualized manner in combination with local conditions related to COVID-19. Conclusion: Our recommendation may provide a guide for oncology centers of developing countries for better management of locally advanced rectal cancer.