GILBERT (Aug. 8, 2024) – Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center is urging cancer patients to take extra care in staying safe during the hottest parts of summer. Our team of experts is sharing some key safety tips for patients and their families to navigate the extreme temperatures and still enjoy the summer.
Dr. Arti Sangave, a radiation oncologist at Banner MD Anderson in Gilbert, Arizona, wants cancer patients to understand just how critical hydration is, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. She says dehydration is a side effect of cancer, as well as from treatment itself – so patients need to take extra care in ensuring they’re getting enough water throughout the day for their body to function correctly.
“By the time you might be thirsty for water, you’re already dehydrated. So it’s critical to keep hydrated consistently throughout the day,” said Dr. Sangave. “If you’re not a fan of plain water, try adding some chilled fruit so you’re motivated to keep your fluid intake up with some healthy nutrients.”
Cancer patients need to be vigilant in limiting sun exposure, as certain forms of chemotherapy and radiation therapy can make cancer patients more sensitive to sunlight. The particular risk depends on the type of cancer you have and the treatments you’re receiving, says Dr. Molly Decker, a physician executive at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at Banner North Colorado Medical Center and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at Banner McKee Medical Center.
“It is very important for cancer patients to wear a wide-brimmed hat if they have lost their hair during chemotherapy, or are receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, to protect their scalp – that is, if they must be in the sun,” said Dr. Decker. “However if possible, try to avoid being in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest parts of the day. If it’s necessary to be outside, use SPF 30+ sunscreen and lip balm, wear sunglasses, and cover up with UPF clothing.”
Dr. Sangave also says if you’re currently in treatment for your cancer, double-check to see if swimming is safe.
“Some treatments and associated side effects can make people more sensitive to the chemicals used in pool water – and natural bodies of water can run the risk of infection due to the bacteria and other microorganisms present. But each patient’s cancer is different, so be sure check with your oncologist,” said Dr. Sangave.
Finally, it’s important for everyone to understand the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke – but it’s particularly important for cancer patients and their families to understand, since the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment can cause dehydration. Banner Health offers in-depth explanations of both heat-related illnesses and how to avoid them.
“If you’re feeling more sensitive to the heat, try to wear breathable fabrics, and keep ice packs and cold water nearby or in the car. You might also want to consider replacing a wig with a hat or cotton scarf for better airflow,” Decker said. “Cancer patients can absolutely enjoy summertime – and they should! We just want to be sure they’re preparing for the day as safely for their health as possible.”
Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center delivers cancer care to patients through the partnership of Banner Health and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner MD Anderson offers focused disease-specific expertise in the medical, radiation and surgical management of the cancer patient; an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to patient care; access to clinical trials and new investigative therapies; state-of-the-art technology for the diagnosis, staging and treatment of all types of cancer; oncology expertise in supportive care services. For more information, visit www.BannerMDAnderson.com.
Banner Health is one of the largest, secular nonprofit health care systems in the country. In addition to 33 hospitals, Banner also operates an academic medicine division, Banner – University Medicine, and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, a partnership with one of the world’s leading cancer programs, MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner’s array of services includes a health insurance division, employed physician groups, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care locations, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, stand-alone imaging centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation, behavioral health services, a research division and a nursing registry. To make health care easier, 100% of Banner-employed doctors are available for virtual visits and patients may also reserve spots at Banner Urgent Care locations and can book appointments online with many Banner-employed doctors. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health also has locations in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com.
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