Endocrine Abstracts

Approximately 85% of children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYA) diagnosed with cancer survive long term with an estimated 45,000 long term survivors of childhood cancer living in the UK today. It is well recognised that survival comes at a cost, with 60 - 90% of survivors experiencing at least one long term health problem (late effect). Endocrine late effects are common, occurring in approximately 50% of survivors, but the list of potential health problems is extensive and leads to significant increased morbidity and mortality in this population. The long-term consequences of recent developments in the treatment and supportive care of CAYA cancer are still to be established, but they are likely to impact on future health of these patients, including increasing the risk of endocrine problems. Managing the health needs of this ever-increasing population as they age places significant demands on services. As well as focusing on the current physical and mental health needs of survivors, we should be researching and developing ways to encourage healthy behaviours that have the potential to modify long term health risks and improve health in the future for this population.