Individuals with cancer and cancer survivors are at a greater risk of developing coronavirus infection and are also two- to three-fold more likely of suffering serious events and mortality. 

A meta-analysis and systematic review were performed to examine the prevalence of cancer in patients suffering from coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Also, the link of cancer with severe events was assessed that incorporated severe cases judged by clinical symptoms, utilization of intensive care unit services, and death.

An extensive literature search was done in the major databases in Chinese and English. The publication selection and data extraction were done by two investigators independently. A meta-analysis was utilized to procure estimates of pooled prevalence of tumor in coronavirus-infected subjects and examine the link of cancer with serious events, after determining potential heterogeneity, publication bias, and rectification for the estimates when needed. In total, 38 studies comprising 7094 individuals suffering from coronavirus infection were incorporated in this analysis. 

Pooled prevalence of cancer was found to be 2.3% overall and 3.2% in Hubei province. Notably, corresponding estimates were found to be 1.4% and 1.9% after correcting the publication bias. Cancer was considerably linked with events of serious cases (odds ratio [OR] = 2.20) and death (OR = 2.97) in coronavirus-infected individuals. There were minimal publication bias and no vital heterogeneity.

Cancer comorbidity is linked with the risk and severe events of coronavirus infection. Special measures should be taken to safeguard cancer patients (especially cancer survivors), with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions from coronavirus exposure.