Face masks in radiation oncology clinics: based on evidence or source of mistakes?

Med Oncol. 2020 Aug 1;37(9):76. doi: 10.1007/s12032-020-01403-8.

Abstract

We here express our concern about a general decree to let patients wear face masks in radiation oncology clinics. We believe that potential risks associated with wearing masks, such as the risk of confounding patients, outweigh any benefits of such a policy for which evidence of protection from COVID-19 is generally weak. For asymptomatic patients, wearing masks in addition to hygiene standards will not provide additional protection of others and should be cautioned against.

Keywords: COVID-19; Face masks; Radiation oncology; SARS-CoV-2.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus / isolation & purification*
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Coronavirus Infections / transmission
  • Coronavirus Infections / virology
  • Evidence-Based Medicine*
  • Humans
  • Masks / standards*
  • Masks / statistics & numerical data*
  • Pandemics
  • Pneumonia, Viral / epidemiology*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / transmission
  • Pneumonia, Viral / virology
  • Radiation Oncology / standards*
  • Radiotherapy Setup Errors / prevention & control*
  • SARS-CoV-2