Childhood cancer survivors face increased health risks

A new study highlights that childhood cancer survivors face a much higher risk of developing serious health issues as they age. These survivors are nearly three times more likely to suffer from diseases related to aging compared to the general population. Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related deaths in children and adolescents in the U.S. Around 500,000 people are alive today after surviving childhood cancer. The study indicates that these individuals endure significant long-term health challenges. Researchers analyzed data from over 22,000 childhood cancer survivors treated between 1970 and 1999. They found that survivors are 2.7 times more likely to develop serious conditions like breast cancer, heart disease, and strokes before they are 65. On average, these conditions appeared 17.7 years earlier in survivors. While survivors treated with radiation therapy had higher risks, even those who did not receive radiation showed elevated health risks compared to the general population. The study revealed that by age 65, about 55% of childhood cancer survivors would develop at least one of these serious conditions. The life expectancy for childhood cancer survivors has improved over the years. For those treated in the 1970s, the average life span was 48.5 years, while those treated in the 1990s can expect to live an average of 57.1 years. Despite this progress, nearly half of these survivors might die by age 65. Researchers hope the findings will encourage healthcare providers to start preventive care for these survivors earlier. This could help manage their risk of cancer and cardiovascular problems. The study also touches on concerns about environmental factors. Chemicals known as "forever" chemicals and vaping are believed to contribute to the rise in childhood cancers. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common type of leukemia in children, affecting their ability to fight infections due to the overproduction of immature white blood cells.