Childhood Cancer Survivors May Have Complications Down The Road
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One of the major advances in the past 30 years has been in the area of treating cancer in children. Some conditions that were once death sentences can now be treated and children can go on to lead normal lives. But, there is a medical side that is cause for concern.
Some of the treatments that save lives can lead to problems later on.
If you are a cancer survivor, odds are good that you have discussed it with your physician but there are certain screening tests and steps you can take that can help prevent problems.
For instance, cancer survivors who were treated with chest radiation are at increased risk for heart disease and certain forms of chemotherapy put people at risk for various forms of cancer. Screening is necessary.