Survivors of cancer in childhood

Late effects of childhood cancer in 142 patients, presently aged 18 years and older, were examined with a medical record review and questionnaire survey. Seventy-four patients (52%) had major defects in treated organs, while 17 (12%) developed second primary neoplasms (10 malignancies and 7 benign tumors). Despite these disorders, most patients had fully active lives. Eighty-six (61%) had attended college, and many were employed as professionals or managers. Seventy-five (53%) were married; 46 had progeny. Disabling psychological illness attributed to cancer in childhood was uncommon. These findings indicate the potential for high quality of extended life for most survivors of childhood cancer. Comprehensive long-term care of these patients may further reduce adverse physiologic and psychosocial sequelae.