Long-Term Side Effects in Patients Who Have Been Treated Successfully for Cancer

Abstract

Because an increasing number of cancer patients are surviving their illness for longer periods, the field of oncology has become concerned about the long-term effects (late effects) of the disease and its treatment and hence the quality of life of the survivors. This article reviews the literature on the physiological, psychological, and social late effects of various types of childhood and adult cancer. It points to the need to monitor survivors to prevent or ease many of the distressing later consequences that befall them.