PROBLEMS FACED BY POST – CANCER PATIENTS

Q: What are the problems of post - cancer patients?

A: Cancer patients in remission & post therapy face both medical and psychosocial problems. Among the medical problems, the most common side effects are: -

1) Second tumors

2) Short stature

3) Learning disabilities

4) Specific organ dysfunction related to type of primary cancer and specific anticancer therapy.

Psychosocial problems include issues of school performance, vocational training, employment opportunity, marriage, reproduction and interfamily interactions.

It is very important to know what the most common post- cancer sequelae are and when intervention is required.

Patients should follow up with their doctor at least yearly. Evaluation may include complete blood count, urine analysis, measurement of height & weight, assessment of pubertal development, measurement of blood pressure, assessment of thyroid function & other endocrine evaluation as indicated, monitoring for relapse/second tumors, fertility counseling and assessment of psychosocial status.

Last updated on 24-06-2002