Worries of childhood cancer survivors in young adulthood

Abstract

PurposeChildhood cancer survivors worry about many issues related to their cancer history. As they grow older, additional issues may emerge. This study of a sample of Korean young adults aims to understand childhood cancer survivors' worries. MethodA purposeful sample of 28 childhood cancer survivors was recruited through survivor and parent-advocacy foundations and support groups in Korea. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted over the phone or in person. Participants ranged in age from 20 to 36, were diagnosed before age 19, and had completed treatment at the time of the study. ResultsThrough qualitative interviews, survivors' worries were identified in the following five themes: romantic relationships and marriage, fertility and the health of future children, work and social life, family, and physical health. ConclusionsThe study's findings support the importance of understanding the worries of childhood cancer survivors in young adulthood and the need for developing services and programs to help survivors acquire the appropriate social skills and coping strategies to mitigate their worries.