Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the cancer incidence in Germany

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on medical care both in Germany and worldwide. Individuals with comorbidity, especially cancer patients, represent a particularly vulnerable group. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer both nationally and internationally. Already at the beginning of the pandemic, there were serious limitations in the diagnosis of cancer diseases as well as in early detection and screening examinations. Delays in diagnosis were evident as well as a significant decline in the number of diagnosed cancer cases. Some patients avoided seeking medical care for fear of infection. Restrictions on supply capacity and delays in cancer treatments occurred. These therapy modifications can influence the course and survival of oncological patients in the long term.