Cancer survivorship programs: time for concerted action

Hematologists, specialists in cancer survivorship and patient advocates met in Bergamo, Italy (Nov 14–16, 2013) to highlight the physical, mental, psychosocial and financial challenges faced by cancer survivors and their families. Gaps in research and resources were all too apparent. This planned meeting perspective, not a formal consensus statement, reflects the key points mentioned by the participants during the discussions and the personal view of the authors. It proposes urgent action in key areas to ensure that people surviving cancer will suffer fewer long-term health problems than their predecessors and to contain costs.