Negligible Effects of the Survey Modes for Patient-Reported Outcomes: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

PURPOSE

This study compared the measurement properties for multiple modes of survey administration, including postal mail, telephone interview, and Web-based completion of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among survivors of childhood cancer.

METHODS

The population included 6,974 adult survivors of childhood cancer in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study who completed the Brief Symptom Inventory-18 (BSI-18), which measured anxiety, depression, and somatization symptoms. Scale reliability, construct validity, and known-groups validity related to health status were tested for each mode of completion. The multiple indicators and multiple causes technique was used to identify differential item functioning (DIF) for the BSI-18 items that responded through a specific survey mode. The impact of the administration mode was tested by comparing differences in BSI-18 scores between the modes accounting for DIF effects.

RESULTS

Of the respondents, 58%, 27%, and 15% completed postal mail, Web-based, and telephone surveys, respectively. Survivors who were male; had lower education, lower household income, or poorer health status; or were treated with cranial radiotherapy were more likely to complete a telephone-based survey compared with either a postal mail or Web-based survey (all P < .05). Scale reliability and validity were equivalent across the 3 survey options. One, 2, and 5 items from the anxiety, depression, and somatization domains, respectively, were identified as having significant DIF among survivors who responded by telephone (P < .05). However, estimated BSI-18 domain scores, especially depression and anxiety, between modes did not differ after accounting for DIF effects.

CONCLUSION

Certain survivor characteristics were associated with choosing a specific mode for PRO survey completion. However, measurement properties among these modes were equivalent, and the impact of using a specific mode on scores was minimal.

Predictive Value of Respiratory Viral Detection in the Upper Respiratory Tract for Infection of the Lower Respiratory Tract With Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Background

Hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients are frequently infected with respiratory viruses (RVs) in the upper respiratory tract (URT), but the concordance between URT and lower respiratory tract (LRT) RV detection is not well characterized.

Methods

Hematopoietic cell transplant candidates and recipients with respiratory symptoms and LRT and URT RV testing via multiplex PCR from 2009 to 2016 were included. Logistic regression models were used to analyze risk factors for LRT RV detection.

Results

Two-hundred thirty-five HCT candidates or recipients had URT and LRT RV testing within 3 days. Among 115 subjects (49%) positive for a RV, 37% (42 of 115) had discordant sample pairs. Forty percent (17 of 42) of discordant pairs were positive in the LRT but negative in the URT. Discordance was common for adenovirus (100%), metapneumovirus (44%), rhinovirus (34%), and parainfluenza virus type 3 (28%); respiratory syncytial virus was highly concordant (92%). Likelihood of LRT detection was increased with URT detection (oods ratio [OR] = 73.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 26.7–204) and in cytomegalovirus-positive recipients (OR = 3.70; 95% CI, 1.30–10.0).

Conclusions

High rates of discordance were observed for certain RVs. Bronchoalveolar lavage sampling may provide useful diagnostic information to guide management in symptomatic HCT candidates and recipients.

Sex-Specific Associations Between Chemotherapy, Chronic Conditions, and Neurocognitive Impairment in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Survivors: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

BACKGROUND

The purpose was to examine associations between treatment and chronic health conditions with neurocognitive impairment survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treated with chemotherapy only.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 1207 ALL survivors (54.0% female; mean age 30.6 years) and 2273 siblings (56.9% female; mean age 47.6 years), who completed the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study Neurocognitive Questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression compared prevalence of neurocognitive impairment between survivors and siblings by sex. Associations between neurocognitive impairment with treatment exposures and chronic conditions (graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events) were also examined. Statistical tests were 2-sided.

RESULTS

Relative to same-sex siblings, male and female ALL survivors reported increased prevalence of impaired task efficiency (males: 11.7% vs 16.9%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31 to 2.74; females: 12.5% vs 17.6%; OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.07 to 2.14), as well as impaired memory (males: 11.6% vs 19.9%, OR = 1.89, CI = 1.31 to 2.74; females: 14.78% vs 25.4%, OR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.43 to 2.70, respectively). Among male survivors, impaired task efficiency was associated with 2-4 neurologic conditions (OR = 4.33, 95% CI = 1.76 to 10.68) and with pulmonary conditions (OR = 4.99, 95% CI = 1.51 to 16.50), and impaired memory was associated with increased cumulative dose of intrathecal methotrexate (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.16 to 2.46) and with exposure to dexamethasone (OR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.19 to 5.01). In female survivors, grade 2-4 endocrine conditions were associated with higher risk of impaired task efficiency (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.20 to 3.97) and memory (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.31 to 3.92).

CONCLUSION

Neurocognitive impairment is associated with methotrexate, dexamethasone, and chronic health conditions in a sex-specific manner, highlighting the need to investigate physiological mechanisms and monitor impact through survivorship.

Clinical Benefits, Harms, and Cost-Effectiveness of Breast Cancer Screening for Survivors of Childhood Cancer Treated With Chest Radiation : A Comparative Modeling Study

BACKGROUND

Surveillance with annual mammography and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended for female survivors of childhood cancer treated with chest radiation, yet benefits, harms, and costs are uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the benefits, harms, and cost-effectiveness of breast cancer screening strategies in childhood cancer survivors.

DESIGN

Collaborative simulation modeling using 2 Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network breast cancer models.

DATA SOURCES

Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and published data.

TARGET POPULATION

Women aged 20 years with a history of chest radiotherapy.

TIME HORIZON

Lifetime.

PERSPECTIVE

Payer.

INTERVENTION

Annual MRI with or without mammography, starting at age 25, 30, or 35 years.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Breast cancer deaths averted, false-positive screening results, benign biopsy results, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs).

RESULTS OF BASE-CASE ANALYSIS

Lifetime breast cancer mortality risk without screening was 10% to 11% across models. Compared with no screening, starting at age 25 years, annual mammography with MRI averted the most deaths (56% to 71%) and annual MRI (without mammography) averted 56% to 62%. Both strategies had the most screening tests, false-positive screening results, and benign biopsy results. For an ICER threshold of less than $100 000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained, screening beginning at age 30 years was preferred.

RESULTS OF SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS

Assuming lower screening performance, the benefit of adding mammography to MRI increased in both models, although the conclusions about preferred starting age remained unchanged.

LIMITATION

Elevated breast cancer risk was based on survivors diagnosed with childhood cancer between 1970 and 1986.

CONCLUSION

Early initiation (at ages 25 to 30 years) of annual breast cancer screening with MRI, with or without mammography, might reduce breast cancer mortality by half or more in survivors of childhood cancer.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

American Cancer Society and National Institutes of Health.

Abstract 1198: The St. Jude Survivorship Portal links whole-genome genetic data with clinical therapy and outcome phenotypes for 7302 pediatric cancer survivors

Clinical and basic research addressing the long-term outcomes of the increasing and high-risk population of pediatric cancer survivors requires large cohorts with high quality information. We have assembled the largest group of pediatric cancer survivors to date with comprehensive clinical characterization and germline whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and made these data available through the Survivorship Portal on St. Jude Cloud (https://survivorship.stjude.cloud).

The Portal contains data from 7302 survivors from two large studies, including 4402 from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study (SJLIFE) with clinically-assessed outcome phenotypes, and 2900 from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) with self-reported outcome phenotypes. High-quality germline variants and genotype calls from WGS were generated and curated by an in-house pipeline with corrected indel alleles and read counts. Germline variants of individual survivors are linked with standardized phenotypes described by &gt;300 variables, spanning cancer-related data including diagnosis, length of follow-up, treatment (cumulative doses of chemotherapy, region-specific radiation therapy doses, surgery), demographic characteristics, selected health behaviors, and long-term outcomes (severity-graded chronic health conditions including second cancers). In addition, clinically-relevant genetic variables including ancestry admixture, HLA alleles, leukocyte telomere length, and blood type have been computed from WGS. Both phenotypic and genetic variables are represented by the Dictionary Browser that allows to quickly identify variables of interest, view summary graphics, cross-tabulate variables by default or user-defined categories and test for association between categories. Using GenomePaint on the Portal, investigators can navigate to a locus of interest and explore the presence and frequencies of variants in the cohort, filter variants with multiple criteria including LD r2 values, and identify DNA binding motif change for non-coding variants. Combining GenomePaint with Dictionary Browser, the real-time association analysis allows to identify trait-associated variants at a locus, through the definition of traits, covariates, and inclusion/exclusion criteria using the Dictionary Browser. Future implementation includes supporting copy number and structural variations, characterization of pharmacogenetic diplotypes, gene-level rare variant analysis, polygenic scores, time-to-event survival analysis, and data download and session management enabled by user login. We envision this cohort with high quality phenotypic and genetic information, together with an enabling software platform co-developed with multidisciplinary principal investigators, will accelerate the discovery in both survivorship research and human genetics in general.

Citation Format: Xin Zhou, Nickhill Bhakta, Jian Wang, Edgar Sioson, Jaimin Patel, Kyla Shelton, Zhaoming Wang, Shaohua Lei, Alexander M. Gout, Carmen L. Wilson, Wendy Leisenring, Smita Bhatia, Yutaka Yasui, Melissa M. Hudson, Gregory T. Armstrong, Leslie L. Robison, Jinghui Zhang. The St. Jude Survivorship Portal links whole-genome genetic data with clinical therapy and outcome phenotypes for 7302 pediatric cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 1198.

Late morbidity and mortality in adult survivors of childhood glioma with neurofibromatosis type 1: report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

Purpose

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is associated with tumor predisposition and non-malignant health conditions. Whether survivors of childhood cancer with NF1 are at increased risk for poor long-term health outcomes is unknown.

Methods

147 5+ year survivors of childhood glioma with NF1 from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study were compared to 2 629 non-NF1 glioma survivors and 5 051 siblings for late mortality, chronic health conditions, psychosocial, neurocognitive, and socioeconomic outcomes.

Results

Survivors with NF1 (age at diagnosis: 6.8±4.8 years) had greater cumulative incidence of late mortality 30 years after diagnosis (46.3%[95% confidence interval: 23.9%−62.2%]) compared to non-NF1 survivors (18.0%[16.1%−20.0%]) and siblings (0.9%[0.6%−1.2%]), largely due to subsequent neoplasms. Compared to survivors without NF1, those with NF1 had more severe/life-threatening chronic conditions at cohort entry (46.3%[38.1%−54.4%] vs. 30.8%[29.1%−32.6%]), but similar rates of new conditions during follow-up (Rate Ratio: 1.26 [0.90–1.77]). Survivors with NF1 were more likely to report psychosocial impairments, neurocognitive deficits, and socioeconomic difficulties compared to survivors without NF1.

Conclusion

Late mortality among glioma survivors with NF1 is twice that of other survivors, due largely to subsequent malignancies. Screening, prevention and early intervention for chronic health conditions, psychosocial and neurocognitive deficits may reduce long-term morbidity in this vulnerable population.

Posttraumatic stress as a contributor to behavioral health outcomes and healthcare utilization in adult survivors of childhood cancer: a report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

PURPOSE

To examine the association between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), neurocognitive and psychosocial late-effects, health behaviors, and healthcare utilization in long-term survivors of childhood cancer.

METHODS

Participants included individuals (N = 6844; 52.5% female; mean [SD] age at diagnosis = 7.6 [5.8], at follow-up = 34.9 [7.5]) in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS). Follow-up included the Posttraumatic Stress Scale, Brief Symptom Inventory-18, Short-form 36 Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) survey, CCSS Neurocognitive Questionnaire, and questions about sociodemographics, physical health, health behaviors, and healthcare utilization. Modified Poisson regression and multinomial logistic regression models examined associations between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and neurocognitive, HRQOL, health behavior, and healthcare outcomes when adjusting for sociodemographics, disease, and treatment.

RESULTS

Long-term survivors with PTSS (N = 995, 14.5%) reported more impairment in mental (relative risk [RR] 3.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.05-3.85), and physical (RR = 2.26, CI = 1.96-2.61) HRQOL. PTSS was also associated with increased impairment in task efficiency (RR = 3.09, CI = 2.72-3.51), working memory (RR = 2.55, CI = 2.30-2.83), organization (RR = 2.11, CI = 1.78-2.50), and emotional regulation (RR = 3.67, CI = 3.30-4.09). Survivors with PTSS were significantly more likely to attend cancer-specific health visits in the past 2 years (OR = 1.89, CI = 1.50-2.39), and showed greater likelihood of either high frequency (OR = 1.89, CI = 1.50-2.39) or complete lack of (OR = 1.63, CI = 1.32-2.01) primary care visits compared to survivors without PTSS.

CONCLUSIONS

Survivors with PTSS reported significantly more psychosocial and neurocognitive late effects, and were more likely to engage in variable use of healthcare.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

PTSS is associated with additional challenges for a population vulnerable to adverse late effects. Inclusion of integrative services during follow-up visits may benefit functional outcomes.

1751. The Impact of Prophylactic Systemic Antibiotics (PSA) on Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection: A Post-hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT) Recipients

Background

Prophylactic systemic antibiotics (PSA) during conditioning regimen-induced neutropenia after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) reduce bacteremia but may disrupt the gut microbiota, potentially affecting viral immunity and risk for viral infections. Prior studies suggest a critical role of gut microbiota in the reconstitution of CMV-specific CD8+ T cells and in protection from respiratory viral infections after HCT (J Immunol 2007; 178: 5209; Blood 2018; 131:2978). To identify whether PSA is associated with differences in CMV infection outcomes after HCT, we conducted a post-hoc analysis of CMV infection in the only RCT of PSA exclusively performed in HCT recipients (Infection 1986; 14:115). In that trial, HCT patients received either PSA (ticarcillin/tobramycin/vancomycin or mezlocillin/ceftizoxime) or no systemic antibiotics during neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count <500/mm³).

Methods

A post-hoc analysis was performed of a previously conducted RCT in the pre-antiviral era (1984–1986) at the Fred Hutch. Patients received unscreened blood products and were tested weekly by CMV culture in throat, and disease was evaluated by tissue biopsy or bronchoalveolar lavage. CMV disease was confirmed by chart review. We compared the cumulative incidence of CMV at any site, CMV throat shedding, and CMV disease between randomization groups by day 100 post-transplant, treating death as a competing risk. Overall survival was also compared using Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

119 and 125 allograft recipients were randomized to PSA and no prophylaxis, respectively. Baseline characteristics in both groups were balanced. CMV infection at any site and CMV throat shedding were greater in the PSA group (Figures 1 and 2); CMV disease was numerically reduced in the no PSA group (Figure 3). Overall survival by day 100 was not different between the groups (Figure 4).

Conclusion

CMV infection risk appeared to be increased in recipients of PSA with a significant anaerobic spectrum. While current PSA regimens have narrower spectrum activity, these results provide the rationale to study if changes in gut microbiota play a role in CMV reactivation and adaptive immunity after HCT.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

1756. Role of Human bocavirus Respiratory Tract Infection in Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Recipients

Background

Limited data exist regarding the impact of human bocavirus (BoV) in hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. We examined incidence and disease spectrum of BoV respiratory tract infection (RTI) in HCT recipients.

Methods

In a longitudinal surveillance study of viral RTIs among allogeneic HCT recipients, pre-HCT and weekly post-HCT nasal washes and symptom surveys were collected through day 100, then every 3 months, and whenever respiratory symptoms occurred through 1-year post-HCT. Samples were tested by multiplex semi-quantitative PCR for RSV, parainfluenza virus 1–4, influenza A/B, adenovirus, human metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, coronavirus, and BoV. Plasma samples from BoV+ subjects were analyzed by PCR. In addition, we conducted a retrospective review of HCT recipients with BoV detected in bronchoalveolar lavage or lung biopsy.

Results

Among 469 patients in the prospective cohort, 21 distinct BoV RTIs (3 pre-HCT and 18 post-HCT) were observed by 1-year post-HCT in 19 patients (median 42 years old, range 0–67) without apparent seasonality. BoV was more frequently detected in the latter half of the first 100 days post-HCT (Figure 1). The frequencies of respiratory symptoms in patients with BoV detected did not appear to be higher than those without any virus detected, with the exception of watery eyes (P < 0.01) (Figure 2). Univariable models among patients with BoV RTI post-HCT showed higher peak viral load in nasal samples (P = 0.04) and presence of respiratory copathogens (P = 0.03) were associated with presence of respiratory symptoms; however, BoV detection in plasma was not (P = 0.8). Retrospective review identified 6 allogeneic HCT recipients (range 1–64 years old) with BoV detected in lower respiratory tract specimens [incidence rate of 0.4% (9/2,385) per sample tested]. Although all 6 cases presented with hypoxemia, 4 had significant respiratory copathogens or concomitant conditions that contributed to respiratory compromise. No death was attributed mainly to BoV lower RTI.

Conclusion

BoV is infrequently detected in respiratory tract in HCT recipients. Our studies did not demonstrate convincing evidence that BoV is a significant pathogen in either upper or lower respiratory tracts. Watery eyes were associated with BoV detection.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

Chemotherapy and Risk of Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study Cohort

PURPOSE

Therapeutic radiation in childhood cancer has decreased over time with a concomitant increase in chemotherapy. Limited data exist on chemotherapy-associated subsequent malignant neoplasm (SMN) risk.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SMNs occurring > 5 years from diagnosis, excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers, were evaluated in survivors diagnosed when they were < 21 years old, from 1970 to 1999 in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (median age at diagnosis, 7.0 years; median age at last follow-up, 31.8 years). Thirty-year SMN cumulative incidence and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were estimated by treatment: chemotherapy-only (n = 7,448), chemotherapy plus radiation (n = 10,485), radiation only (n = 2,063), or neither (n = 2,158). Multivariable models were used to assess chemotherapy-associated SMN risk, including dose-response relationships.

RESULTS

Of 1,498 SMNs among 1,344 survivors, 229 occurred among 206 survivors treated with chemotherapy only. Thirty-year SMN cumulative incidence was 3.9%, 9.0%, 10.8%, and 3.4% for the chemotherapy-only, chemotherapy plus radiation, radiation-only, or neither-treatment groups, respectively. Chemotherapy-only survivors had a 2.8-fold increased SMN risk compared with the general population (95% CI, 2.5 to 3.2), with SIRs increased for subsequent leukemia/lymphoma (1.9; 95% CI, 1.3 to 2.7), breast cancer (4.6; 95% CI, 3.5 to 6.0), soft-tissue sarcoma (3.4; 95% CI, 1.9 to 5.7), thyroid cancer (3.8; 95% CI, 2.7 to 5.1), and melanoma (2.3; 95% CI, 1.5 to 3.5). SMN rate was associated with > 750 mg/m² platinum (relative rate [RR] 2.7; 95% CI, 1.1 to 6.5), and a dose response was observed between alkylating agents and SMN rate (RR, 1.2/5,000 mg/m²; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.3). A linear dose response was also demonstrated between anthracyclines and breast cancer rate (RR, 1.3/100 mg/m²; 95% CI, 1.2 to 1.6).

CONCLUSION

Childhood cancer survivors treated with chemotherapy only, particularly higher cumulative doses of platinum and alkylating agents, face increased SMN risk. Linear dose responses were seen between alkylating agents and SMN rates and between anthracyclines and breast cancer rates. Limiting cumulative doses and consideration of alternate chemotherapies may reduce SMN risk.

Association of Exercise With Mortality in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Importance

Adult survivors of childhood cancer are at excess risk for mortality compared with the general population. Whether exercise attenuates this risk is not known.

Objective

To examine the association between vigorous exercise and change in exercise with mortality in adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter cohort analysis among 15 450 adult cancer survivors diagnosed before age 21 years from pediatric tertiary hospitals in the United States and Canada between 1970 and 1999 enrolled in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, with follow-up through December 31, 2013.

Exposures

Self-reported vigorous exercise in metabolic equivalent task (MET) hours per week. The association between vigorous exercise and change in vigorous exercise and cause-specific mortality was assessed using multivariable piecewise exponential regression analysis to estimate rate ratios.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Secondary end points were cause-specific mortality (recurrence/progression of primary malignant neoplasm and health-related mortality). Outcomes were assessed via the National Death Index.

Results

The 15 450 survivors had a median age at interview of 25.9 years (interquartile range [IQR], 9.5 years) and were 52.8% male. During a median follow-up of 9.6 years (IQR, 15.5 years), 1063 deaths (811 health-related, 120 recurrence/progression of primary cancer, 132 external/unknown causes) were documented. At 15 years, the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 11.7% (95% CI, 10.6%-12.8%) for those who exercised 0 MET-h/wk, 8.6% (95% CI, 7.4%-9.7%) for 3 to 6 MET-h/wk, 7.4% (95% CI, 6.2%-8.6%) for 9 to 12 MET-h/wk, and 8.0% (95% CI, 6.5%-9.5%) for 15 to 21 MET-h/wk (P < .001). There was a significant inverse association across quartiles of exercise and all-cause mortality after adjusting for chronic health conditions and treatment exposures (P = .02 for trend). Among a subset of 5689 survivors, increased exercise (mean [SD], 7.9 [4.4] MET-h/wk) over an 8-year period was associated with a 40% reduction in all-cause mortality rate compared with maintenance of low exercise (rate ratio, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.44-0.82; P = .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Vigorous exercise in early adulthood and increased exercise over 8 years was associated with lower risk of mortality in adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Subsequent Neoplasms After a Primary Tumor in Individuals With Neurofibromatosis Type 1

PURPOSE

Fundamental gaps in knowledge regarding the risk of subsequent neoplasms (SNs) in children with pathogenic neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) variants exposed to radiation and/or alkylator chemotherapy have limited the use of these agents.

METHODS

We addressed these gaps by determining the SN risk in 167 NF1-affected versus 1,541 non-NF1-affected 5-year childhood cancer survivors from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and 176 nonoverlapping NF1-affected individuals with primary tumors from University of Alabama at Birmingham and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia exposed to radiation and/or chemotherapy. Proportional subdistribution hazards multivariable regression analysis was used to examine risk factors, adjusting for type and age at primary tumor diagnosis and therapeutic exposures.

RESULTS

In the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study cohort, the 20-year cumulative incidence of SNs in NF1 childhood cancer survivors was 7.3%, compared with 2.9% in the non-NF1 childhood cancer survivors (P = .003), yielding a 2.4-fold higher risk of SN (95% CI, 1.3 to 4.3; P = .005) in the NF1-affected individuals. In the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia cohort, among NF1-affected individuals with a primary tumor, the risk of SNs was 2.8-fold higher in patients with irradiated NF1 (95% CI, 1.3 to 6.0; P = .009). In contrast, the risk of SNs was not significantly elevated after exposure to alkylating agents (hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.3 to 3.0; P = .9).

CONCLUSION

Children with NF1 who develop a primary tumor are at increased risk of SN when compared with non-NF1 childhood cancer survivors. Among NF1-affected children with a primary tumor, therapeutic radiation, but not alkylating agents, confer an increased risk of SNs. These findings can inform evidence-based clinical management of primary tumors in NF1-affected children.

Promoting Breast Cancer Surveillance: The EMPOWER Study, a Randomized Clinical Trial in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

PURPOSE

The aim of the current study was to increase the uptake of screening mammography among high-risk women who were treated for a childhood cancer with chest radiotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two hundred four female survivors in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study who were treated with chest radiotherapy with 20 Gy or greater, age 25 to 50 years, and without breast imaging in the past 24 months were randomly assigned 2:1 to receive a mailed informational packet followed by a tailored telephone-delivered brief motivational interview (intervention) versus an attention control. Primary outcome was the difference in the proportion of participants who completed a screening mammogram by 12 months as evaluated in an intent-to-treat analysis. Stratum-adjusted relative risk (RR) and 95% CI were estimated using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel method. Secondary outcomes included the completion of screening breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and barriers to screening and moderating factors.

RESULTS

Women in the intervention group were significantly more likely than those in the control group to report a mammogram (45 [33.1%] of 136 v 12 [17.6%] of 68; RR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.3). The intervention was more successful among women age 25 to 39 years (RR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1 to 4.7) than among those age 40 to 50 years (RR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.6 to 3.2). The proportion of women who reported a breast MRI at 12 months was similar between the two groups: 16.2% (intervention) compared with 13.2% (control; RR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.6 to 2.5). Primary barriers to completing a screening mammogram and/or breast MRI included lack of physician recommendation, deferred action by survivor, cost, and absence of symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Use of mailed materials followed by telephone-delivered counseling increased mammography screening rates in survivors at high risk for breast cancer; however, this approach did not increase the rate of breast MRI. Cost of imaging and physician recommendation were important barriers that should be addressed in future studies.

Hyperthyroidism After Radiation Therapy for Childhood Cancer: A Report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

PURPOSE

The association of hyperthyroidism with exposure to ionizing radiation is poorly understood. This study addresses the risk of hyperthyroidism in relation to incidental therapeutic radiation dose to the thyroid and pituitary glands in a large cohort of survivors of childhood cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Using the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study's cohort of 5-year survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed at hospitals in the United States and Canada between 1970 and 1986, the occurrence of hyperthyroidism through 2009 was ascertained among 12,183 survivors who responded to serial questionnaires. Radiation doses to the thyroid and pituitary glands were estimated from radiation therapy records, and chemotherapy exposures were abstracted from medical records. Binary outcome regression was used to estimate prevalence odds ratios (ORs) for hyperthyroidism at 5 years from diagnosis of childhood cancer and Poisson regression to estimate incidence rate ratios (RRs) after the first 5 years.

RESULTS

Survivors reported 179 cases of hyperthyroidism, of which 148 were diagnosed 5 or more years after their cancer diagnosis. The cumulative proportion of survivors diagnosed with hyperthyroidism by 30 years after the cancer diagnosis was 2.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0%-2.9%) among those who received radiation therapy. A linear relation adequately described the thyroid radiation dose response for prevalence of self-reported hyperthyroidism 5 years after cancer diagnosis (excess OR/Gy, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.06-0.95) and incidence rate thereafter (excess RR/Gy, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.03-0.14) over the dose range of 0 to 63 Gy. Neither radiation dose to the pituitary gland nor chemotherapy was associated significantly with hyperthyroidism. Radiation-associated risk remained elevated >25 years after exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of hyperthyroidism after radiation therapy during childhood is positively associated with external radiation dose to the thyroid gland, with radiation-related excess risk persisting for >25 years. Neither radiation dose to the pituitary gland nor chemotherapy exposures were associated with hyperthyroidism among childhood cancer survivors through early adulthood.

Chronic health conditions (CHC) and late mortality in survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

10016

Background: The impact of evolving risk-stratified therapy on long-term morbidity and mortality in survivors of childhood ALL remains largely unknown. Methods: All-cause and health-related late mortality (HRM; captures death from late-effects occurring > 5 yrs from diagnosis), subsequent (malignant) neoplasm [S(M)N], CTCAE graded CHC and neurocognitive outcomes were assessed in 5-yr survivors of ALL diagnosed < 21 yrs of age from 1970-99. Therapy combinations defined 6 groups: 1970s-like ( 70s), standard and high risk 1980s- and 1990s-like ( 80sSR, 80sHR, 90sSR, 90sHR), relapse/transplant ( R/BMT). Cumulative incidence and standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated. Piecewise exponential and log-binomial models estimated rate ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Among 6148 survivors (median age 31.5 yrs), 15-yr cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 5.8% (CI 5.3-6.2) and HRM was 1.5% (1.2-1.7). Compared to 70s, HRM was lower for 90sSR and 90sHR (RR 0.1, CI 0.0-0.3; 0.2, 0.1-0.7), similar to that in the US population (SMR; CI: 90sSR 1.1; 0.6-1.9, 90sHR 1.9; 0.8-3.7). 20-yr cumulative incidence of SN was 3.5% (CI 3.1-3.9). Compared to 70s, 90sSR had lower risk of benign meningioma (RR 0.1, CI 0.0-0.3) and SMN (0.3, 0.1-0.6) with no absolute excess risk compared to the US population. 90sSR was associated with a lower risk of CHCs (Table). Conclusions: More recent risk-stratified therapy has succeeded in reducing risk of late mortality and CHCs among long-term survivors of ALL. [Table: see text]

Clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of breast cancer screening for childhood cancer survivors treated with chest radiation: A comparative modeling study

6525

Background: Survivors of childhood cancer previously treated with chest radiation face elevated breast cancer risk similar to BRCA1 carriers. Children’s Oncology Group (COG) guidelines recommend annual mammography with breast MRI, yet the benefits and costs of various screening strategies are uncertain. Methods: We used two breast cancer simulation models (Model 1 and 2) from the Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network (CISNET) and data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study to reflect high breast cancer and competing mortality risks among survivors. We simulated 3 screening strategies: annual mammography with MRI starting at age 25 (COG25), annual MRI starting at 25 (MRI25), and biennial mammography starting at 50 (Mammo50). Performance of mammography+/-MRI was based on published studies in BRCA1/2 carriers who have similar cancer risk. Costs and quality of life weights were based on US averages and published studies. Results: Among a simulated cohort of 25-year-old survivors treated with chest radiation, the lifetime breast cancer mortality risk in the absence of screening was 10-11% across models. Compared to no screening, Mammo50, MRI25, and COG25 screening avert approximately 23-25%, 56-62% and 56-71% of deaths, respectively; averted deaths for COG25 compared to MRI25 were higher in Model 1 than Model 2 (9% vs. <1%). In Model 1, both MRI25 and COG25 were cost-effective; in Model 2, MRI25 was preferable (more effective, less costly than COG25). Conclusions: Compared to no screening, initiating annual screening at younger ages for at-risk survivors averts >50% of breast cancer deaths and is cost-effective. Additional data on test performance are needed to inform recommendations on screening modality. [Table: see text]

Cardiac events in survivors of childhood cancer treated in more recent eras: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

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Background: Contemporary cancer protocols have incorporated modifications to minimize cardiotoxic exposures and preserve long-term health. We investigated the impact of these changes on late cardiac outcomes in a large cohort of adult survivors of childhood cancer. Methods: Congestive heart failure (CHF), myocardial infarction (MI), valvular disease, pericardial disease, and arrhythmias were graded by the National Cancer Institute’s Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events among 23,462 five-year cancer survivors [6,193 (26%) treated in the 1970s, 9,363 (40%) in the 1980s, and 7,906 (34%) in the 1990s] and 5,057 siblings. Cumulative incidence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated by treatment decade. Adjusted multivariable subdistribution hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI for cardiac outcomes by decade. Mediation analysis examined risks with and without cardiotoxic exposures. Results: For survivors [median age 6 years (range: 0-21) at diagnosis, 28 years (8.2-58) at follow-up], cardiac radiation (RT) exposure declined from 77% of those treated in the 1970s to 55% and 40% in the 1980s and 1990s. Anthracycline exposure increased from 28% to 50% to 64%. The 20-year cumulative incidence of CHF (0.69% for those treated in 1970s, 0.74% in the 1980s, 0.54% in the 1990s) and MI (0.38%, 0.24%, 0.19%) declined in more recent treatment eras (p < 0.01). This change was not seen for valvular disease (0.06%, 0.06%, 0.05%), pericardial disease (0.04%, 0.02%, 0.03%) or arrhythmias (0.08%, 0.09%, 0.13%). Compared to survivors diagnosed in the 1970s, the risk of CHF, MI, and valvular disease decreased in the 1980s and 1990s, but only significantly for MI (HR 0.64 95% CI 0.47-0.89 and 0.52 95% CI 0.32-0.83). The overall MI risk was attenuated by adjustment for cardiac RT exposure (HR 0.94 95% CI 0.80-1.11), mostly among Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors (HR 0.82 95% CI 0.69-0.98 [unadjusted for RT]; 1.03 95% CI 0.83-1.28 [adjusted for RT]). Conclusions: Reductions in exposure to cardiotoxic cancer therapies have resulted in declines in adverse cardiac outcomes, particularly for the RT-associated risk of myocardial infarction among HL survivors.

Late cholecystectomy in survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

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Background: Cholecystectomy (CCY) is among the most common operations performed in the developed world and is offered as a cure for symptomatic gallbladder disease. Whether survivors of childhood cancer undergo CCY at a higher rate than the general population is unknown. Methods: We identified 5-year survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 1999 who self-reported late (> 5 years after cancer diagnosis) CCY. Rates of CCY were determined among the entire cohort and in association with various risk factors and treatment exposures. Adjusted rate ratios (ARR) were estimated with multivariable piecewise exponential models. Results: Among 24,248 survivors (median follow-up 22.3, interquartile range [IQR] 16.2-30.1 years) and 5,038 siblings (median follow-up 26.4, IQR 19.3-33.7 years), the unadjusted cumulative incidence of CCY at age 50 was 7.2% (n = 757) in survivors and 6.5% (n = 168) in siblings. After adjusting for age, sex and race/ethnicity, survivors underwent CCY at higher rates compared to siblings (ARR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.1-1.5). Relative to siblings, acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors underwent CCY at a higher rate (ARR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.3-2.0), all other diagnoses were not independently associated with higher rates of CCY. Among survivors, risk factors for late CCY included female sex, increasing body mass index (BMI) class, exposure to platinum agents and total body irradiation (TBI) (Table). Conclusions: CCY is performed more commonly among childhood cancer survivors relative to siblings. In addition to known risk factors for gallbladder disease, cancer treatment exposures may further enhance risk for CCY. Awareness and education regarding this observation may ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of symptomatic disease. [Table: see text]

Emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations in survivors of childhood cancer in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

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Background: Chronic health conditions are frequent among childhood cancer survivors and lead to increased health care resource utilization. We compared rates of ED visits and hospitalizations between survivors and siblings. Methods: Analyses included 10,762 ≥5-year survivors and 2,069 siblings who completed a questionnaire from 2014-2016. We calculated ED visits and non-obstetric hospitalizations in the last 12 months per 1,000 person-years (PY) and evaluated cause-specific hospitalization rates using ICD-10 categories. Multivariable Poisson regression models evaluated predictors of survivor visits. Results: Median age in survivors and siblings was 35.3 years (interquartile range [IQR] 29.0-43.1) and 42.9 years (IQR 35.6-50.2), respectively; time from cancer diagnosis was 27.8 years (IQR 21.7-34.1). 24.2% of survivors and 16.2% of siblings had ≥1 ED visit (p < 0.001); rates were 521/1,000 PY for survivors and 246/1,000 PY for siblings (age/sex-adjusted relative rate [RR] 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7 - 2.3). Factors associated with increased survivor ED visits were black race (RR 1.6, CI 1.2-2.0), being obese (RR 1.4, CI 1.2-1.7) or underweight (RR 1.9, CI 1.2-3.0), female sex (RR 1.3, CI 1.1-1.5), younger age (p = 0.02) or abdomen/pelvis (RR 1.2, CI 1.1-1.4) or brain irradiation (RR 1.2, CI 1.0-1.4). 13.3% of survivors and 8.3% of siblings had ≥1 hospitalization (p < 0.001); rates were 219/1,000 PY for survivors and 130/1,000 PY for siblings (RR 1.9; CI 1.3 - 2.9). Factors associated with increased survivor hospitalizations were female sex (RR 1.3, 1.1-1.5), younger age (p < 0.0001), being obese (RR 1.3, CI 1.0-1.6) or underweight (RR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.2) or platinum chemotherapy exposure (RR 1.6, CI 1.3-2.0). The most common indications for hospitalization were diseases of the digestive (21.9/1,000 PY; CI 18.7 - 25.7) and circulatory (20.9/1,000 PY; CI 17.8 – 24.4) systems. Leukemia survivors had the highest ED visit and hospitalization rates. Conclusions: Childhood cancer survivors had a 2-fold increased likelihood of an ED visit or hospitalization compared with their siblings. This increases the economic burden on survivors and the health care system.

Long term morbidity and mortality among survivors of infant neuroblastoma: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS)

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Background: Infants with neuroblastoma typically have low-risk disease with excellent survival. Therapy has been de-intensified over time to minimize late effects, however the impact on survivors’ risk of late mortality, subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMN), and chronic health conditions (CHC) is unclear. Methods: We evaluated late mortality, SMNs and CHCs (graded according to CTCAE v4.03), overall and by diagnosis era, among 990 5-year neuroblastoma survivors diagnosed at < 1 year of age between 1970-1999. Cumulative mortality, standardized mortality ratios (SMR), and standardized incidence ratios (SIR) of SMNs were estimated using the National Death Index and SEER rates, respectively. Cox proportional hazards estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for CHC, compared to 5,051 CCSS siblings. Results: Among survivors (48% female; median attained age: 24 years, range 6-46), there was increased treatment with surgery alone across the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s (21.5%, 35.3%, 41.1%, respectively), but decreased treatment with combination surgery + radiation (22.5%, 5.3%, 0.3%, respectively) and surgery + radiation + chemotherapy (28.7%, 14.7%, 9.3%, respectively). The 20-year cumulative mortality was 2.3% (95% CI, 1.4-3.8), primarily due to SMNs (SMRSMN= 10.0, 95% CI, 4.5-22.3). The 20-year cumulative incidence of SMN was 1.2% (95% CI, 0.3-3.2), 2.5% (95% CI, 1.3-4.4), and zero for those diagnosed in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, respectively. SIR was highest for renal SMNs (SIR 12.5, 95% CI, 1.7-89.4). Compared to siblings, survivors were at increased risk for grade 1-5 CHC (HR 2.1, 95% CI, 1.9-2.3) with similar HR across eras (HR1970s= 1.9, 95% CI, 1.6-2.2; HR1980s= 2.2, 95% CI, 1.9-2.6; HR1990s= 2.0, 95% CI, 1.7-2.4). The HR of severe, disabling, life-threatening and fatal CHC (grades 3-5) decreased in more recent eras (HR1970s= 4.7, 95% CI, 3.4-6.6; HR1980s= 4.4, 95% CI, 3.2-6.2; HR1990s= 2.9, 95% CI, 2.0-4.3). Conclusions: Survivors of infant neuroblastoma remain at increased risk for late mortality, SMN, and CHCs many years after diagnosis. However, the risk of grade 3-5 CHCs has declined in more recent eras, likely reflecting de-intensification of therapy.

Comparing late mortality risks among childhood cancer survivors: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and British Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

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Background: It is unclear whether late-effect risks are comparable across international settings. We compared late mortality risks in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) and British Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (BCCSS). Methods: 46,474 5-year survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed from 1970-1999 and < 15 years age were included: 28,248 from the CCSS and 18,226 from the BCCSS. Late mortality (death ≥5 years from diagnosis) was assessed by linking to national vital statistics records. Adjusted ratios of the standardized mortality ratio (RSMR) and cumulative mortality probabilities were used to compare risks between cohorts. Treatment exposures were not available for the BCCSS, precluding comparison. Results: The cumulative all-cause mortality at 10 years from diagnosis was significantly lower in the CCSS (4.8%;95%CI:4.6%-5.0%) compared to the BCCSS (6.9%;95%CI:6.5%-7.2%); this was due to a lower probability of death from recurrence/progression of the primary cancer (CCSS = 3.3% vs. BCCSS = 5.8%), with significant differences observed in survivors of leukemia (7.9% vs 4.0%), Hodgkin lymphoma (2.5% vs 1.3%), CNS tumors (6.4% vs 4.4%), and sarcoma (6.5% vs 4.0%). However, with increasing time from diagnosis, risks became more similar. The CCSS ultimately had a greater cumulative mortality at 40 years from diagnosis, attributable to a 2-fold higher mortality from subsequent neoplasms (SNs) (RSMR:2.0;95%CI:1.8-2.3), cardiac (RSMR:1.7;95%CI:1.4-2.3) and pulmonary (RSMR:1.9;95%CI:1.4-2.5) causes, and other health-related deaths (RSMR:2.4;95%CI:2.1-2.9). When assessed by follow-up interval, the differences between the CCSS and BCCSS increased significantly for deaths due to SNs, cardiac and pulmonary causes, and other health-related deaths as time increased. Among those diagnosed more recently, the gap in all-cause mortality widened, with CCSS survivors diagnosed 1990-1999 experiencing approximately half the excess (RSMR:0.5;95%CI:0.5-0.6) observed in the BCCSS; this widening was driven by declines in the RSMR for most non-recurrence/progression causes of death. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that North American survivors may have received more intensive regimens during this time period to achieve sustainable remission and cure. However, the cost of this approach was a higher risk of death from late-effects. Which approach confers a net survival advantage will depend critically on the magnitude of the excess risk of late-effect deaths as the cohorts age.

Combined effect of radiotherapy and anthracyclines on risk of breast cancer among female childhood cancer survivors: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS)

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Background: Breast cancer is a common late-effect for female childhood cancer survivors and chest radiotherapy is an established risk factor. Recent findings showed that treatment with anthracyclines also increases breast cancer risk. However, the risk from the combined effect of radiotherapy and anthracyclines is unknown. Methods: We conducted a matched case-control study of 271 subsequent breast cancer and 1044 controls nested within the CCSS - a North-American cohort of five-year survivors of childhood cancer, diagnosed from 1970-1986 and followed-up through 2016. Detailed treatment records were abstracted to estimate radiation dose (Gy) to the breast cancer location and ovaries and calculate cumulative chemotherapy doses (mg/m2). Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to estimate Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Breast cancer risk increased linearly with radiation dose to the breast (OR per 10Gy = 3.9, 95%CI:2.5-6.5) and decreased with increasing ovarian dose (p < 0.01). Adjusted for radiation dose, the highest quartile of dose (455+mg/m2) of anthracyclines was associated with a 3.8-fold increased risk of breast cancer (95%CI:1.8-8.2) compared to no anthracyclines. This risk increased with cumulative anthracycline dose (p-trend < 0.01) and was non-significantly higher for ER+ than ER- breast cancers. For a breast dose of 10+Gy, the OR was 19.1 (95%CI:7.6-48.0) with anthracyclines versus 9.6 (95%CI:4.4-20.7) without anthracyclines, compared to 0- < 1Gy breast dose and no anthracyclines (p-additive interaction = 0.04). Conclusions: The combination of anthracyclines and radiotherapy doses to the breast can markedly increase breast cancer risk compared to those who receive neither treatment. Our results can be used to inform risk management for childhood cancer patients treated in the past, as well as project potential breast cancer risk from current treatment protocols.

Neurocognitive outcomes in adult survivors of neuroblastoma: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

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Background: Long-term survivors of neuroblastoma may be at risk for neurocognitive impairment due to young age at diagnosis and intensive multimodal therapies. Methods: 837 survivors of neuroblastoma (57% female; median [range] age 25 [17-58] years, age at diagnosis 1 [0-21] years) and 728 siblings (56% female; age 32[16-43] years) self-reported neurocognitive problems using a neurocognitive questionnaire. Impairment was defined as scores ≥90th percentile of siblings in emotional regulation (ER), organization, task efficiency (TE), and memory. Multivariable log-binomial models evaluated associations with treatment exposures, era and chronic conditions (Grade 2-4 CTCAE v5) adjusting for sex, age, and race. Analyses were stratified by age at diagnosis (≤1 and > 1 year) as proxy for risk group. Results: Rates of impairment were 19.7% (ER), 25.3% organization, 21.9% TE and 19.4% for memory. Survivors had 50% higher risk of impaired TE (≤1 year relative risk [RR] 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-2.03; > 1 year: RR 1.58, CI 1.22-2.06) and ER (≤1 year RR 1.51, CI 1.07-2.12; > 1 year RR 1.44, CI 1.06-1.95) versussiblings. Among survivors ≤1 year at diagnosis, treatment with platinum (RR 1.74, CI 1.01-2.97), hearing loss (RR 1.95, CI 1.26-3.00), cardiovascular (RR 1.83, CI 1.15-2.89) and neurologic (RR 2.00, CI 1.32-3.03) conditions were associated with higher risk of impaired TE. Female sex (RR = 1.54, CI, 1.02-2.33), cardiovascular (RR 1.71, CI 1.08-2.70) and respiratory (RR 1.99, CI 1.14-3.49) conditions were associated with higher risk of impaired ER. Among survivors > 1 year at diagnosis those treated in 1970-79 vs. 1990-99 had 80% higher risk of impaired ER (RR 1.77, CI 1.02-3.06). Hearing loss (RR 1.56 (1.09-2.24), respiratory (RR 2.35, CI 1.60-3.45) and cardiovascular (RR 1.74, CI 1.12-2.69) conditions were associated with higher risk of impaired TE. Conclusions: Adult survivors of neuroblastoma are at-risk for neurocognitive impairment. Differences associated with age at diagnosis, chronic disease and treatment exposures may inform risk-stratified inventions to improve neurocognitive outcomes. Reduced risk in later eras may reflect improved supportive care and knowledge of late effects.

Frailty among childhood cancer survivors: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS)

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Background: Childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk for frailty, which is a loss of physiological capacity that is typically observed among older adults. Aims: Estimate the prevalence of frailty among survivors, and examine direct and indirect effects of treatment, lifestyle, and chronic disease factors on frailty. Methods: CCSS participants who were > 5-year survivors of childhood cancer, diagnosed between 1970-1999 at <21 years of age (n=10,899, 48% male), and siblings (n=2,097, 42% male) were included. Frailty was defined from self-reported data at mean ages of 37.6±9.4 and 42.9±9.8 years for survivors and siblings, respectively, as ≥3 of the following: low lean mass, exhaustion, low energy expenditure, slow walking, and weakness. Results: The prevalence of frailty among survivors was higher compared to siblings (5.8%, 95% CI: 5.4-6.3% vs. 1.9%, 95% CI 1.4-2.5%). Prevalence was highest in survivors of CNS tumors (9.5%, 5.2-13.8%), bone sarcomas (8.1%, 5.1-11.1%) and Hodgkin lymphoma (7.5%, 4.9-10.1%). In models adjusted for sex, age at assessment, and race/ethnicity, treatment exposures were associated with frailty (Table). After adjusting for the presence of chronic diseases and lifestyle factors, these associations were attenuated. Conclusions: The prevalence of frailty among survivors (6.0% at 38 years of age) was similar to the general population aged ≥65 years (9.0%). Radiation, platinum, amputation and thoracotomy increased risk for frailty. Findings suggest interventions to prevent, delay onset, or remediate chronic disease and/or promote healthy lifestyle are needed to preserve function in this population. [Table: see text]

Impact of exercise on psychological burden in adult survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for adverse psychological outcomes. Whether exercise can attenuate this risk is unknown.

METHODS

In total, 6199 participants in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (median age, 34.3 years [range, 22.0-54.0 years]; median age at diagnosis, 10.0 years [range, 0-21.0 years]) completed a questionnaire assessing vigorous exercise and medical/psychological conditions. Outcomes were evaluated a median of 7.8 years (range, 0.1-10.0 years) later and were defined as: symptom level above the 90th percentile of population norms for depression, anxiety, or somatization on the Brief Symptom Inventory-18; cancer-related pain; cognitive impairment using a validated self-report neurocognitive questionnaire; or poor health-related quality of life. Log-binomial regression estimated associations between exercise (metabolic equivalent [MET]-hours per week^-1 ) and outcomes adjusting for cancer diagnosis, treatment, demographics, and baseline conditions.

RESULTS

The prevalence of depression at follow-up was 11.4% (95% CI, 10.6%-12.3%), anxiety 7.4% (95% CI, 6.7%-8.2%) and somatization 13.9% (95% CI, 13.0%-14.9%). Vigorous exercise was associated with lower prevalence of depression and somatization. The adjusted prevalence ratio for depression was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.72-1.05) for 3 to 6 MET hours per week^-1 , 0.76 (95% CI, 0.62-0.94) for 9 to 12 MET-hours per week^-1 , and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.58-0.95) for 15 to 21 MET-hours per week^-1 . Compared with 0 MET hours per week^-1 , 15 to 21 MET-hours per week^-1 were associated with an adjusted prevalence ratio of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.62-1.00) for somatization. Vigorous exercise also was associated with less impairment in the physical functioning, general health and vitality (P_trend  < .001), emotional role limitations (P_trend  = .02), and mental health (P_trend  = .02) domains as well as higher cognitive function in the domains of task completion, organization, and working memory (P < .05 for all), but not in the domain of cancer pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Vigorous exercise is associated with less psychological burden and cognitive impairment in childhood cancer survivors.