Childhood cancer survivors: Anxieties felt after treatment and the need for continued support

Background Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) and their family members continue to live in fear even after treatment is concluded due to concerns about late effects and recurrences. The consequent long-term psychological burden requires long-term follow-up suited to the anxieties and needs of CCSs, which is why we have conducted the present survey. Methods We conducted a questionnaire survey at medical facilities in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions of Japan with CCSs who had survived for at least 5 years following treatment, and their family members. Results 30 (53%) CCSs and 27 (47%) CCS family members answered the questionnaires. The median age of the CCSs and their family members (CCS parents) were 23 years and 51.5years, respectively. The most common diagnosis was acute lymphoblastic leukemia (47%) and the median length of follow-up after the conclusion of treatment was 11 years. The percentage of participants who responded that they knew about late effects was significantly lower among CCSs than among CCS parents. Almost no significant difference was observed between CCSs and CCS parents in regarding their anxieties in specific life stages. The main consultants for CCSs and CCS parents were their family. However, they sought opportunities for casual consultation for current worries outside the family. Conclusions It is necessary for medical facilities not only to provide medical support, but also to establish a place where they can provide centralized consultation for the anxieties of CCSs and their parents. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.