Long term follow up of survivors of childhood cancer

It is estimated that there are around 26,000 childhood cancer survivors in the UK. These survivors have higher premature death rates and are at increased risk of a range of physical and psychosocial problems.

Remit and target users

This guideline is applicable to all people who have survived cancer in childhood, and who may experience late effects that are related to their treatment. It covers subsequent primary cancers, fertility issues, cardiac effects, bone health, metabolic syndrome, cognitive and psychosocial outcomes, long term follow up, growth problems, thyroid dysfunction and patient issues.

This guideline will be of particular relevance to general practitioners and other primary care practitioners, specialist nurses, oncologists, haematologists, endocrinologists, reproductive medicine specialists, cardiologists and radiation oncologists. It will also be of interest to counsellors, psychologists, dietitians, physiotherapists and dentists as well as patients and their families.

How this guideline was developed

This guideline was developed using a standard methodology based on a systematic review of the evidence. Further details can be found in SIGN 50: A Guideline Developer’s Handbook.

Keeping up to date

This guideline was issued in 2013 and will be considered for review in three years. The review history, and any updates to the guideline in the interim period, will be noted in the review report.

Some recommendations may be out of date, declaration of interests governance may not be in line with current policy.