Transitional care for young adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Abstract

To review the obstacles and barriers to providing optimal care to young adult cancer survivors and discuss the transition from pediatric to adult health care system. Published articles and textbook chapters. More than 70% of children diagnosed with cancer between birth and 14 years of age will be cured of their primary disease. Because of multiple physical and psychosocial risk factors imposed by their therapy and previous disease, childhood cancer survivors require life-long care. Health care providers must be aware of the unique needs of these individuals for life-long follow-up and assist in facilitating this transition process.