New Delhi: Holi is approaching, but it can invite trouble for cancer patients as they tend to have low immunity and are undergoing treatment. Follow these pivotal tips to prevent infections and respiratory complications, including coughing and breathing issues. Dr Jyoti Mehta, Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist, TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre, spoke about how one can ensure Holi celebration is safe for all cancer patients.
Holi can be a matter of concern for cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. Cancer treatments can impact the immune system, making patients prone to infections, skin reactions, and respiratory issues. Therefore, cancer patients should be cautious and avoid direct exposure to synthetic colours, crowded gatherings, and contaminated water during Holi.
Holi and cancer patients
Chemical colours can create havoc on the skin and raise the chances of skin irritation, rashes, and allergic reactions, which may take longer to heal in cancer patients. So, those open wounds, surgical scars, or radiation-affected skin can be sensitive and can get easily infected, causing unnecessary panic and anxiety. Powder colours can also be inhaled, leading to symptoms such as coughing, breathing discomfort, or infections, mainly in patients with lung involvement or even low immunity. Moreover, exposure to large crowds can also make cancer patients susceptible to viral or bacterial infections. So, if you are undergoing treatment for cancer, then it is the best decision to avoid playing Holi and be safe indoors.
What should cancer patients do?
Avoid playing with dry or wet colours that are available in the market, which contain chemicals like lead, mercury, and chromium, asbestos and silica, artificial dyes, and industrial chemicals that can give a tough time to cancer patients. Do not allow colours near surgical scars, radiation-treated skin, or IV line sites. In case of fever, rash, or breathing difficulty, seek medical advice immediately and keep the emergency numbers handy. Caregivers should ensure that the cancer patients don’t come in contact with colours at all.
Cancer patients should avoid crowded public celebrations to reduce infection risk and wear full-sleeved cotton clothes to protect their skin. Use a moisturiser to protect sensitive skin, avoid water balloons and contaminated water, stay well hydrated to prevent dryness, and rest adequately to avoid feeling fatigued. Immediately wash off any colour gently if it comes in contact with the skin. Holi can also be celebrated with near and dear ones at home peacefully without colours and balloons. Play soothing music, play indoor games, spend quality time together, and enjoy healthy meals. Wear a mask at home if you are allowing visitors, and wash your hands immediately.
Cancer patients can still enjoy Holi by celebrating indoors with close family, exchanging sweets, and participating in rituals safely. However, playing with colours and balloons is not at all advisable for cancer patients.