PURPOSE:
The study aimed to identity specific
needs for services and programs to help
childhood cancer survivors adjust and adapt to
life after treatment.
METHODS:
In-depth interviews were conducted with 31
childhood cancer survivors, diagnosed with
cancer before the age of 18 and currently between 15 and 39 years of age. Each
survivor had completed his/her
cancer treatment.
RESULTS:
The participating
cancer survivors reported
needs for services related to psychological
counseling, schooling and
learning, social skills,
mentorship, integrated
health management,
self support activities,
families of
survivors, and public recognition and
awareness.
CONCLUSION:
The results of the study indicate a need to better understand
childhood cancer survivors, provides a basis for developing various services and programs to improve the
quality of life among childhood
cancer patients,
survivors, and their
families, and supports the importance of psychosocial
adjustment.