When Kate Middleton visited the hospital where she underwent cancer treatment this week, it was supposed to be a show of “support” for patients, but some took issue with her remarks.
The Princess of Wales returned to the Royal Marsden Hospital in London on Tuesday January 14 to speak with patients and share what she learned from her own experience of treatment at the same facility.
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“I wanted to come and show my support for the incredible work that is being done here and for those who are going through treatment and going through such difficult times,” she told one patient. Hello America reported for the first time.
“There is light at the end of this tunnel, very happy to meet you and good luck. You are in good hands,” she assured the woman.
Middleton also opened up about how she personally found ways to cope while going through treatment.
“Everyone told me to keep a positive mindset, it makes such a difference,” she said, adding: “I really felt like I needed some sunshine. You need a lot of water and a lot of sun.”
Some social media users took issue with the mention of “lots of sun,” noting that chemotherapy can increase sensitivity to the sun.
“What type of chemotherapy patient is advised to enjoy the sun???” An X user wanted to know, adding in particular that people should not be advised to do things that could be dangerous for them. This is not good!”
Related: Kate Middleton returns to hospital where she received cancer treatment
“All the medications my daughter takes for her leukemia say the exact opposite,” another person wrote. “If you’re battling cancer, don’t follow (this) advice,” they continued, “’Lots of sun’ will literally burn you, as most chemotherapy drugs (and antibiotics) cause sensitivity to sun.”
“Every cancer patient I know, including my sister, has been advised not to go out in the sun in case of side effects from their treatment. It is disgusting that cancer charities cancer allow this misinformation to go unchallenged. People will try to copy this ridiculous statement!” said a third, while someone else pointed out that “Catherine’s PR team” must have “forgotten to advise her accordingly”.
Some fans, however, defended the royal, pointing out that her comments could have been misinterpreted.
“I don’t think she meant the words ‘bake in the sun’ literally, but a nice day helps,” another user suggested.
“She is NOT on treatment at the moment so she was probably told sunlight was okay. I was told the exact same thing after she finished treatment for breast cancer,” shared another fan, adding: “Sunlight at appropriate times with protection leads to good VIT D levels.”
Experts recommend that anyone who needs to spend time outdoors take necessary sun precautions, especially those undergoing cancer treatment.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy both increase sensitivity to the sun, putting patients at risk of burning, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. It is therefore important for people undergoing cancer treatment to take precautions when outside. Nurse practitioner Marie Brunspecialist in geriatric oncology, emphasized in his August 2017 report: “Chemotherapy and the sun do not go well together. »
Next: Prince William praises Kate Middleton for her ‘remarkable’ strength in birthday tribute
