Childhood/Young Adult Cancers Information
Updated Resources for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer
A diagnosis of cancer in your teens, 20s, or 30s comes at a time when you least expect to be worrying about your health. While it may seem like most cancer programs are aimed either toward young children or toward older adults, there are tons of incredible resources and support services out there with programs just for adolescents and young adults (AYAs).
Childhood Cancer Survivors’ Exposure to Chemotherapy or Radiation Does Not Increase Risk of Birth Defects in their Children
A study shows that children of childhood cancer survivors who received prior treatment involving radiation to testes or ovaries and/or chemotherapy with alkylating agents do not have an increased risk for birth defects compared to children of survivors who did not have such cancer treatment.
September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Across America, thousands of courageous children fight pediatric cancer each year, facing life?threatening battles that would challenge men and women of any age. They are cared for by loving families, friends, and communities who band together to support children in times of great need. From raising money for research and hospital stays to offering compassionate assistance to families who have lost loved ones, Americans are working every day to combat childhood cancer.
First Descents: Outdoor Adventures for Young Adults with Cancer
by Whitney Lange, Director of Programs
Kevin Lebret-White was 36 years old when he received the devastating news. Then he learned about First Descents and its programs geared toward helping young adults with cancer, like himself, regain a sense of control over their lives.
Young Adults with Cancer Face Unique Challenges
by Doug Ulman and Diana Ulman
In the natural course of life, young adults go forth with optimism, idealism, and a belief that they are indestructible. When they are robbed of that special perspective because of a life-threatening disease, they have a particularly difficult adjustment to make. There are issues that are very specific to young adults dealing with cancer.
Educational Challenges for Childhood Cancer Survivors
by Alma Morgan, MEd
Today, more than ever before, childhood cancer survivors are experiencing academic success. Many of these survivors are graduating high school with honors; attending colleges and universities of their choice; going to law school, medical school, receiving postgraduate and doctorate degrees; and entering the world of work in their chosen career paths. How is this possible?
Wigs for Kids®
For more than 27 years, Wigs for Kids® has provided thousands of custom-made hair replacement systems to children experiencing hair loss due to cancer, alopecia, burns, accidents, and other medical circumstances. In 2007, the number one reason for hair loss by children receiving wigs from Wigs for Kids was due to cancer.
The Late Effects of Treatment for Childhood Cancer
by Galit Rosen, MD, and Robert Goldsby, MD
One of the triumphs of modern medicine is the improved survival of children diagnosed with cancer. As recent as 50 years ago, childhood cancer was almost universally fatal. Now, with advances in medical and supportive care, most children with cancer will reach adulthood and be long-term survivors. As the number increases, it is becoming clear that the same cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery) responsible for improved outcomes can have long-term consequences.
