Cancer patients enduring 'worst possible groundhog day'

Cancer patients in Scotland are living through the “worst possible Groundhog Day”, according to a charity.

Research by Macmillan Cancer Support reveals a growing toll of the ongoing coronavirus crisis on people with cancer.

It reveals 15% of cancer patients in Scotland are worried disruption could reduce the likelihood of their treatment being successful.

Janice Preston, Macmillan’s head of services in Scotland, said: “This is a time of almost unprecedented challenge for people with cancer.

“Those going through treatment are often doing so without loved ones by their side, even receiving a diagnosis alone.

“On top of this, many are scared to go outside because of their vulnerability to coronavirus, leaving them feeling incredibly isolated.

“For many, the pandemic feels like the worst possible Groundhog Day, but we want everyone with cancer to know that they aren’t alone.

“We will keep doing whatever it takes to ensure people with cancer do not feel forgotten in this crisis and we want everyone to know that we’re here for them.”

The research, carried out before the recent surge in coronavirus cases, also shows around a fifth – 22% – of people with cancer are feeling depressed because of Covid-19.

Around one in four (27%) feel they will not be able to return to normal activities until there are no new cases of the virus being reported.

The YouGov survey of 270 Scots with a previous cancer diagnosis was carried out between December 2 and 22, with figures weighted.