For Patients

For gynecologic cancer patients who are considering vaccination for novel coronavirus

～ Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology ～

Cancer patients, including gynecologic cancer, who have novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) have been shown to be at increased risk of death due to severer COVID-19 symptoms. Cancer patients are eligible for priority COVID-19 vaccination in many countries.

We recommend gynecologic cancer patients to receive COVID-19 vaccination.

Clinical trials have shown that COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective in preventing the onset of COVID-19.

Safety of the vaccine: At this time, only few people who are seriously allergic to COVID-19 vaccine itself are supposed to avoid the vaccination.
Almost anyone with any type of cancer can receive it, regardless of their pre-existing conditions or the medication they are taking.

Effectiveness of the vaccine: Cancer patients may be less likely acquire immunity than healthy people, and may be less likely to acquire immunity during certain periods due to surgery or chemotherapy. Nevertheless, the vaccine can confer sufficient immunity to them.
If you are uncertain about when to receive vaccination, please consult with your doctor.

Although you need to carefully consider and decide on vaccination, benefits of vaccination often outweigh their risks at this point.
If in doubt, please consult with your doctor.

July 15, 2021, Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology