Pediatric cancer survival and marriage: issues affecting adult adjustment

Of 36 men and women, now aged 21 or older, who were treated for cancer as children, 20 have married. As part of a long-term follow-up, 13 of their spouses were interviewed about the effects of cancer on the patient and on their marriage. Comparison of patient's physical limitations, visible impairments, and psychiatric adjustment ratings indicated significant differences between patients who have married or become engaged and those who have not married.