1 hr ago

Childhood Cancer Survivors Face Lifelong Care Beyond Treatment

Many children who have cancer get better and finish treatment.

But finishing treatment is not always the end of their medical care.

Some medicines and radiation can affect the body years later.

Doctors may check growth, learning, the heart, fertility and emotions as children grow up.

These problems are possible, but they do not happen to every survivor.

Regular checkups can help doctors find problems early.

Counseling, healthy nutrition and rehabilitation can also help.

Doctors now want children not only to survive cancer, but also to grow into healthy adults.

Many survivors go on to study, work, have families and live full lives.

Key facts

Main goal: Help children survive cancer and reach adulthood with as few treatment-related consequences as possible.
Possible growth effects: Slower growth, delayed puberty, thyroid problems and diabetes may occur in some survivors.
Organs requiring monitoring: The heart, lungs, kidneys and bones may require follow-up after treatment.
Other possible effects: Treatment may contribute to fertility problems, dental issues, hearing loss, early cataracts or learning difficulties.
Psychological effects: Some survivors may experience anxiety or difficulty adjusting socially after intensive illness and treatment.
Second cancer risk: There is a small but real risk of a later, unrelated cancer, depending on the treatment received.
Supportive care: Regular screening, counseling, nutrition, rehabilitation and psychological support are recommended elements of survivorship care.

firstpost.com · 1 hr ago