Protecting Vulnerable Lives: The Importance of Improving Vaccine Coverage in Patients with Cancer
Eighteen million American adults are currently living with a diagnosis of cancer.
In addition to the challenges inherent to cancer treatment and survivorship, the
disease- and treatment-related immunosuppression experienced by many
patients with cancer increases their risk of morbidity and mortality when exposed
to viral or bacterial pathogens. For example, patients with cancer who contract
influenza are more likely to experience complications, require hospitalization, or
die when hospitalized than otherwise healthy individuals.
Vaccination is a cornerstone of helping to prevent infection in patients with
cancer and is recommended by national and international organizations such as
the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), the American Society of
Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology.
However, vaccination rates in patients with cancer remain suboptimal, resulting in
avoidable healthcare costs, treatment delays, and diminished outcomes. These
coverage gaps can be attributed to a range of patient, provider, and health
system factors, including:
