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Survivors of childhood cancer

Late Health Risks


Over 75% of children with cancer are now cured of their disease. Along with excellent survival rates, achieving optimal quality of life is important. Studies have shown that at least 65% of adult survivors of childhood cancer develop late health effects from their disease and/or treatment. Close follow-up of patients post treatment for potential problems allows cancer survivors to enjoy full and active lives.

Long Term Follow-Up Clinic


Patients who have completed treatment and have no evidence of cancer are seen at the long term follow-up clinic for a full evaluation. Details regarding their disease and potential long term health risks are reviewed and discussed.

Patients may continue to be followed up to age 21 years and have been off treatment for at least 5 years. Patients who have had a bone marrow transplant or radiation as part of their treatment can be transitioned to adult oncology care. When appropriate, care can be transferred to their family physician.

The oncology team has developed disease-specific long term follow-up guidelines. However the health risk issues are complex and dependent on the original disease and treatment. Knowledge regarding the incidence and severity of these risks is increasing as well as new facts are emerging with newer therapies.

Young Adult Follow-Up Clinic


There are at least 3,000 survivors of childhood cancer in BC. Many are not aware of some of the long-term risks associated with their previous treatment. The current situation in BC is that only a very small number of patients are followed as adults at the BC Cancer Agency, some are followed by their family doctor who has been given guidelines, and some are cared for by physicians who are not aware of long-term consequences of therapy.


An ongoing comprehensive follow-up clinic for adult survivors of childhood cancer is being developed. Efforts will be made to trace and contact long-term survivors of childhood cancer.

Survivors who are interested in this program may contact Marion Nelson, Long Term Follow Up Nurse Clinician, at mnelson@cw.bc.ca.

What survivors will receive through this clinic

  • a review of their previous treatment
  • a written summary of their previous treatment
  • advice regarding possible late effects of treatment and how to prevent or treat them
  • help to organize any recommended tests if necessary
  • collaboration with their own doctor to maintain their health
  • participation in research studies of long-term outcomes if they are interested


    • Recommended Reading


    Childhood Cancer Survivors - A Practical Guide to Your Future (2nd Edition, 2006)
    By Kathy Ruccione, Nancy Keen and Wendy Hobbie.  This book can be ordered from O'Reilly.


    Additional Information


    Balding for Dollars has a Bursary Fund for survivors of childhood cancer or blood disorders who are/were involved in the BCCH Oncology/Hematology/BMT program, to support their educational pursuits.

    Page updated August 2011