Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic - Pediatric Cancer Survivorship

For childhood cancer survivors, the first visit to the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic will likely include a day of review and testing. Providers might create or discuss your child’s ongoing follow-up care plan. These plans are based on many factors, including cancer diagnosis and past treatments.

The types of tests our providers perform will vary greatly. Tests will depend on your child’s needs. Blood tests and imaging tests may be included, as well as other tests that check for signs and symptoms of late adverse effects from cancer treatments. We personalize care plans for each patient based on the history of their cancer, treatment and medical journey.

Most patients visit the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic once a year. But your provider will determine how often you need to visit the clinic.

Follow-up care will vary from patient to patient. But it is critical that providers monitor for adverse and long-term effects of cancer treatments as well as signs of new or returning cancers.

Our providers in the pediatric cancer survivorship program offer comprehensive care, including education and resources, to ensure your child’s health and quality of life are maintained over time. Your child will have regular follow-up visits with specialists who are up to date on the latest screening and treatment guidelines for childhood cancer survivors. 

Cancer treatments carry different health risks and concerns for childhood cancer survivors.

Childhood cancer survivors are at greater risk for a second cancer later in life due to certain therapies. For example, some chemotherapy may cause acute myeloid leukemia. At the same time, radiation therapy may cause cancers in the skin, breast, bones, brain and spine.

Other health problems may include:

• Heart problems, such as cardiovascular disease, irregular heart rhythm and heart failure
• Liver, lung or kidney problems, with severity depending on the type of treatment
• Neurocognitive problems, such as difficulty with learning, memory or multitasking, often seen with chemotherapy or radiation
• Male and female fertility problems in later life, especially following radiation or certain chemotherapy drugs
• Dental issues, including cavities, dry mouth and gum disease
• Slow or stunted bone growth from radiation or chemotherapy 
• Musculoskeletal issues, including osteoporosis and scoliosis
• Vision problems, including cataracts and dry eyes
• Mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety

Treatment effects may be apparent immediately. But some might not develop until months or even years later. That’s why it is important to maintain regular appointments at the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic, even if your child is feeling OK.

Many childhood cancer survivors will develop long-term effects from their cancer treatments. The risk for long-term effects depends on a variety of factors, including:

• Cancer diagnosis
• The patient’s sex
• Health habits
• Age at time of diagnosis and treatment
• Type and dose of treatment received
• Any pre-existing health problems or issues that arose during or after treatment
• Family history of cancer or other health conditions

Pediatric cancer survivors can help lower the risk of long-term effects from treatment while enhancing quality of life. These tips can help:

• Follow a healthy diet and limit consumption of overprocessed foods.
• Exercise regularly.
• Go to routine medical and dental checkups.
• Do not smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol.
• Use sunscreen.