Presentation Description: Survivors of childhood cancer are at increased risk of developing chronic medical conditions, primarily as a direct result of the treatments they received to cure their cancers (for example radiation, combination chemotherapy). Endocrine or hormone problems are among the most common chronic medical conditions seen in adult survivors of childhood cancer. Hormone problems are most often seen in persons who were treated with radiation to the brain, neck or pelvic area and those who received high doses of a class of chemotherapy drugs called alkylation agents (such as cyclophosphamide, busulfan, melphalan, thiotepa). Hormone problems can affect growth, sexual development, stamina, and overall well being. Fortunately, many hormone problems are treatable.
This presentation reviewed the major hormone complications seen in survivors of childhood cancer, risk factors for these problems, as well as common symptoms and treatment approaches.
Speaker: Mark Greenberg
Senior Adviser, Policy & Clinical Affiars
Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO), Toronto
Senior Staff Oncologist
Division of Haematology/Oncology, SickKids, Toronto
Professor of Paediatrics & Surgery, University of Toronto