Quality of Life in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Abstract

More children are surviving childhood cancer than ever before; however, little is known about these survivors' long-term quality of life (QOL). This study explores factors that might influence QOL in adult childhood cancer survivors. In a cross-sectional design, 70 of 100 eligible survivors from 1 long-term follow-up clinic completed a QOL and depression symptom measure. Medical information was abstracted from charts. Analysis revealed that survivors with elevated depressive symptoms had significantly lower QOL across all domains than those with lower levels of depressive symptoms. Regression analyses were conducted to further explore relationships. Depressive symptoms appear to be a major factor contributing to adverse QOL outcomes in adult survivors. Additional research should focus on the prevention of depression symptoms and effective treatment modalities for this unique population.