Presentation Description: Overall cure rates for childhood cancer patients now exceeds 80%. Many survivors are thriving; however, we know that the cost of cure may include lifelong impediments that can challenge the transition to adulthood and impact quality of life. Transitioning to adulthood can be more challenging for survivors when compounded by the physical, social/vocational and psychological late effects of childhood cancer.

Brain tumor survivors, especially those who receive cranial radiation at a young age, are among the most severely impacted by late effects. Many assets such as self confidence, social skills, a well developed support network, opportunities for educational and vocational success, along with a supportive AfterCare team, are essential for these survivors to achieve their full potential.

This presentation will provide an overview of the profile of the survivors at risk and the patterns of late effects. A focus on some of the common late effects and their management or prevention, using a multidisciplinary approach, will be highlighted.

Speakers:

Patricia McCarthy, RN (EC), MSc(A)
Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Oncology
Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)