Metabolic syndrome and growth hormone deficiency in adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The Prevalence, Risk Factors and Cardiometabolic Complications of Obesity in Childhood Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Prevalence, risk factors and metabolic complications of overweight/obesity (OW/OB) are not well described in the childhood survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Longitudinal changes in body mass index-z score (BMIz) from diagnosis to the last follow-up visit after the end of treatment were evaluated in 73 children at first complete remission. Of them, 40 were tested for adipokine profiles at visit. The mean BMIz increased gradually from diagnosis (0.07 ± 1.68) to the end of dexamethasone containing reinduction therapy (0.70 ± 1.48, P:0.007), followed by a fall at the end of treatment (0.15 ± 1.24) and a rise again at visit (0.40 ± 1.23, P:0.007). OW/OB percentage of 15% at diagnosis, increased to 35% at visit (p < 0.05). Post-treatment OW/OB in survivors was related with being OW/OB at diagnosis (OR 5.4, 95% CI [0.94-31.7]; P = 0.02) and after dexamethasone containing reinduction therapy (OR 5.1, 95% CI [1.1-21.4]; P = 0.05), but not with age at diagnosis, gender, treatment intensity and cranial irradiation. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was more prevalent in survivors (13%) than in Turkish children (2%). As compared with controls, survivors had higher leptin level (8.1 ± 8.6 vs 3.2 ± 2.2 ng/ml, P = 0.01) and leptin/adiponectin ratio (2.1 ± 3.5 vs 0.6 ± 0.5, P = 0.03). Leptin/adiponectin ratio was correlated with HOMA-IR (r: 0.57, P = 0.001). The prevalence of OW/OB and MetS are elevated in the childhood survivors of ALL. Post-treatment OW/OB in survivors is related with OW/OB at diagnosis and dexamethasone containing therapy. Elevated leptin level and leptin: adiponectin ratio may serve as an early sign of metabolic derangement increasing the risk for early cardiovascular disease.

Vascular Aging Is Accelerated in Hematological Cancer Survivors Who Undergo Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant

BACKGROUND

Survivors of allogeneic stem cell transplant (SCT) receive intensive cancer treatments that are associated with cardiovascular dysfunction. Markers of vascular age can indicate early signs of adverse (cardio)vascular changes; however, the impact of SCT on these makers is unknown. We aimed to determine the short (3 months) and longer-term (≥2 years) effect of SCT on markers of vascular age in hematologic cancer survivors compared with an age-matched noncancer control group.

METHODS

The short-term effects of SCT, markers of vascular age (aortic compliance, arterial elastance, and ventricular-vascular coupling) were assessed via cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cardiac and aortic volumes) before and ≈3 months post-SCT in 13 short-term survivors and compared with 11 controls. The longer-term impact was assessed by comparing 14 long-term survivors (6.5 [2-20] years post-SCT) to the short-term survivors (post-SCT) and controls (n=16).

RESULTS

The groups were similar for age and body mass index. In the short-term survivors, no significant group-by-time interactions were observed for any markers of vascular aging from pretransplant to posttransplant (net difference for change in compliance between groups -0.07 [95% CI, -1.49 to 1.35]). For the time-course analysis, aortic compliance was significantly lower in both SCT groups (overall P=0.007) compared with controls, whereas ventricular-vascular coupling was higher in both survivor groups as was arterial elastance in long-term SCT survivors (ie, worse; P<0.01 for all).

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of an accelerated vascular aging phenotype in allogeneic SCT survivors and provides insight into the increased burden of cardiovascular disease among hematologic cancer survivors.

Recommendations for Nutritional Supplementation in Pediatric Oncology: A Compilation of the Facts

BACKGROUND

As one of the few modifiable risk factors, the importance of dietary patterns for both disease prevention and treatment outcome in pediatric oncology has gained increasing popularity. Malnutrition is associated with lower survival rates, tolerance to treatment, and quality of life. Yet, especially in children with malignancies, nutritional deterioration is common, and pediatric cancer patients often present with inadequate intake of micro- and macronutrients alike. Despite the reported widespread use of dietary supplements, few empirical data provide a basis for clinical recommendations, and evidence for their efficacy is inconsistent. Current literature lacks a systematic approach as to how and which supplements should be recommended for specific patients, types of cancer, or during specific treatments. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of the most frequently used nutrients in pediatric malignant diseases and to give a practical guide based on current scientific evidence.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed through April 2023 to select meta-analyses, systematic reviews, observational studies, and individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of macro- and micronutrient supplementation in pediatric oncology. The search strategy included the following medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords: "childhood cancer", "pediatric oncology", "nutritional status", "dietary supplements", "vitamins", "micronutrients", "calcium", "magnesium", "vitamin D", "zinc" "glutamine", "selen", and "omega-3 fatty acids". The reference lists of all relevant articles were screened to include potentially pertinent studies.

RESULTS

The present review provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the latest evidence about the role of nutrition and diet in pediatric oncology, also focusing on different nutritional interventions available for the management of the disease. We summarize evidence about the importance of adequate nutrition in childhood cancer and the role of several micronutrients and critically interpret the findings. Possible effects and benefits of supplementation during chemotherapy are discussed, as are strategies for primary and secondary prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

We here describe the obvious benefits of dietary supplementation for childhood cancer. Further large-scale clinical trials are required to verify the impacts of deficiencies and the possible benefits of supplementation and optimal dosages. (337 words).

Detecting Sarcopenic Obesity in Survivors of Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: An Exploration of Body Mass Index and Triponderal Mass Index as Potential Surrogate Markers

Survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) often have altered body composition secondary to treatment effects, including sarcopenic obesity (SO), which increases the risk of both metabolic complications and frailty. SO is difficult to detect without using advanced imaging techniques to which access is often limited. To explore whether common clinical indices can reliably identify the presence of SO in a cohort of long-term survivors of ALL, the discriminatory capacity of body mass index (BMI) or triponderal mass index (TMI, kg/m 3 ) for detecting SO was assessed. Thresholds of BMI and TMI associated with overweight or obesity status had poor sensitivity (<50%) and specificity for detecting SO. Total misclassification rates at these thresholds exceeded 50% and positive likelihood ratios were nonsignificant. Notably, TMI is more strongly correlated with elevated adiposity than is BMI in this survivor population ( R2 =0.73 vs. 0.57), suggesting further exploration is warranted. Our study is limited by the sample size, precluding detailed regression analysis. This study highlights the challenges of identifying SO in survivors of pediatric ALL using common clinical indices. Prospective evaluation of additional potential surrogate markers in survivors, in conjunction with the component features of SO, should be a key focus of future research.

Fecal microbiota of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and metabolic syndrome: an exploratory study

Metabolic syndrome and obesity occur commonly in long-term pediatric cancer survivors. The intestinal microbiome is associated with metabolic syndrome and obesity in the general population, and is perturbed during cancer therapy. We aimed to determine if long-term survivors of pediatric cancer would have reduced bacterial microbiome diversity, and if these findings would be associated with components of the metabolic syndrome, obesity, and chronic inflammation. We performed a cross-sectional exploratory study examining the intestinal microbiome via 16S amplicon sequencing, treatment history, clinical measurements (blood pressure, body mass index) and biomarkers (hemoglobin A1c, lipoproteins, adiponectin: leptin ratio, C-reactive protein, TNFα, Interleukin-6, and Interleukin-10) between 35 long-term survivors and 32 age, sex, and race matched controls. All subjects were aged 10-40 years, and survivors were at least five years from therapy completion. Survivors had lower alpha diversity compared to controls (Shannon index p = .001, Simpson index p = .032) and differently abundant bacterial taxa. Further, among survivors, those who received radiation (18/35) to the central nervous system or abdomen/pelvis had decreased alpha diversity compared to those who did not receive radiation (Shannon and Simpson p < .05 for both). Although, no specific component of metabolic syndrome or cytokine was associated with measures of alpha diversity, survivors with low adiponectin-lectin ratio, elevated body mass index, and elevated C-reactive protein had differently abundant taxa compared to those with normal measures. The microbiome of cancer survivors remains less diverse than controls even many years after diagnosis, and exposure to radiation may lead to further loss of diversity in survivors.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08880018.2022.2049937.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary and Other Endocrine Surveillance Among Childhood Cancer Survivors

Endocrine disorders in survivors of childhood, adolescent, and young adult (CAYA) cancers are associated with substantial adverse physical and psychosocial effects. To improve appropriate and timely endocrine screening and referral to a specialist, the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group (IGHG) aims to develop evidence and expert consensus-based guidelines for healthcare providers that harmonize recommendations for surveillance of endocrine disorders in CAYA cancer survivors. Existing IGHG surveillance recommendations for premature ovarian insufficiency, gonadotoxicity in males, fertility preservation, and thyroid cancer are summarized. For hypothalamic-pituitary (HP) dysfunction, new surveillance recommendations were formulated by a guideline panel consisting of 42 interdisciplinary international experts. A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE (through PubMed) for clinically relevant questions concerning HP dysfunction. Literature was screened for eligibility. Recommendations were formulated by drawing conclusions from quality assessment of all evidence, considering the potential benefits of early detection and appropriate management. Healthcare providers should be aware that CAYA cancer survivors have an increased risk for endocrine disorders, including HP dysfunction. Regular surveillance with clinical history, anthropomorphic measures, physical examination, and laboratory measurements is recommended in at-risk survivors. When endocrine disorders are suspected, healthcare providers should proceed with timely referrals to specialized services. These international evidence-based recommendations for surveillance of endocrine disorders in CAYA cancer survivors inform healthcare providers and highlight the need for long-term endocrine follow-up care in subgroups of survivors and elucidate opportunities for further research.

Evaluation of blood pressure in pediatric survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and healthy children; A case-control study

Background:

The exact prevalence of hypertension in children surviving acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has not been fully estimated. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of arterial hypertension (AH) and to determine the risk factors for the development of AH in children surviving ALL with current treatments.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 150 patients (84 males, 66 females, with an age range of 1–16 years) were included in the study. Demographic and clinical information of patients were initially recorded. Hypertension is defined as average systolic blood pressure (BP) and/or diastolic BP that is greater than the 95^th percentile for gender, age, and height.

Results:

The mean age at the assessment of BP was 11.3 and 9.8 years in the ALL and control group, respectively. A total of 20.6% of survivors of ALL and 10% of controls had high BP. Most patients in both groups had normal BP (65.3% patients in ALL group and 75.4% subjects in the control group). The number of patients with hypertension was significantly higher in ALL patients as compared with the control group (P = 0.026).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of AH in children surviving ALL is higher than in children in the general population, which emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of BP in children surviving ALL and intervention in the lifestyle of this population. Careful follow-up of BP status is warranted for long-term survivors of childhood cancer.

The Efficacy of Targeted Exercise on Gross Motor and Neuromuscular Performance in Survivors of Childhood Leukemia: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

This quasi-experimental study examined the efficacy of targeted exercise training on gross motor performance and neuromuscular impairments in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL CCS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten ALL CCS (median age: 10 years; range: 6-14 years) performed a 6-week training program three times per week (five in-person sessions), including a warm-up, total body stretching, progressive jump rope training, and a cool down. Gross motor performance (test of gross motor proficiency) and lower extremity rate of muscle activation (electromyography), joint torques (motion capture and force plate), and jump height (motion capture) were measured during a countermovement jump at baseline and post-training.

RESULTS

Post-training, ALL CCS demonstrated improvements in body coordination, strength and agilty, bilateral coordination, running speed and agility, and strength gross motor performance (mean change: 1.6-8.1; p < 0.05), the rate of muscle activation of the tibialis anterior and vastus lateralis muscles (mean change: 0.58-0.75; p < 0.05), hip and ankle joint torques (mean change: 0.07; p < 0.05), and jump height (mean change: 0.05; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that targeted exercise training can improve gross motor performance and neuromuscular impairments in ALL CCS post-medical treatment.

Energy cost of walking in obese survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort

Purpose

Adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have impaired adaptive physical function and poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Obesity may contribute to these impairments by increasing the physiological cost of walking. Due to treatment exposures during ALL therapy, survivors' cost of walking may be more impacted by obesity than the general population. Therefore, we examined associations between obesity, persistent motor neuropathy, and energy cost of walking; and examined associations between energy cost of walking, adaptive physical function, and HRQoL, in adult survivors of childhood ALL vs. community controls.

Methods

Obesity was measured via body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage. The physiological cost index (PCI) was calculated from the six-minute walk test. Adaptive physical functioning was measured using two tests: the timed up and go (TUG) test and the physical performance test. Persistent motor neuropathy was measured using the modified total neuropathy score; HRQoL was measured using the Short-Form-36 questionnaire. The associations between obesity and PCI were evaluated using multivariable linear regressions in adult survivors of childhood ALL (n = 1,166) and community controls (n = 491). Then, the associations between PCI, adaptive physical functioning and peripheral neuropathy were examined using multivariable linear regressions. Finally, to determine the association between obesity, and neuropathy on PCI, while accounting for potential lifestyle and treatment confounders, a three model, sequential linear regression was used.

Results

Obese individuals (BMI > 40 kg/m² and excess body fat percentage [males: >25%; females: >33%]) had higher PCI compared to those with normal BMI and body fat percentage (0.56 ± 0.01 vs. 0.49 ± 0.009 beats/meter p < .01; and 0.51 ± 0.007 vs. 0.48 ± .0006 beats/meter p < .01, respectively). Treatment exposures did not attenuate this association. Increased PCI was associated with longer TUG time in survivors, but not community controls (6.14 ± 0.02 s vs. 5.19 ± 0.03 s, p < .01). Survivors with PCI impairment >95th percentile of community controls had lower HRQoL compared to un-impaired ALL survivors: 46.9 ± 0.56 vs. 50.4 ± 1.08, respectively (p < .01).

Conclusion

Obesity was associated with increased PCI. Survivors with high PCI had disproportionately worse adaptive physical function and HRQoL compared to controls. Survivors with increased energy costs of walking may benefit from weight loss interventions.

Cardiometabolic risk in childhood cancer survivors

The Italian Cancer Registry Association has estimated that for the five-year period 2016-2020, in line with the previous five years, approximately 7,000 neoplasms have been diagnosed among children and 4,000 among adolescents. Leukemias, brain tumors and lymphomas together account for more than two-thirds of all pediatric cancers. Fortunately, the five-years survival rate has progressively improved reaching 80% thanks to the continuing improvement of therapeutic protocols but the vast majority of these cancer survivors will have at least one chronic health condition by 40 years of age. Long-term complications concern various organs and systems and have a multifactorial etiopathogenesis. Obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome represent chronic diseases that affect life expectancy. Cardiovascular risk partly linked to therapies and genetic susceptibility and partly linked to the presence of obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome predispose childhood cancer survivors to heart failure, coronary artery disease, valvular disease, arrhythmia. Hence the cardio- metabolic risk of childhood cancer survivors can have a significant impact on their lives, families, and on society at-large. It is therefore very important to know the risk factors that predispose to the development of cardio-metabolic pathologies in childhood cancer survivors, the possible primary and secondary prevention strategies, the methods of surveillance and the therapeutic approaches.

Restoration of H3k27me3 Modification Epigenetically Silences Cry1 Expression and Sensitizes Leptin Signaling to Reduce Obesity-Related Properties

The trimethylation on histone H3 lysine 27 (H3k27me3), a transcriptionally repressive epigenetic mark of permissive chromatin, can be removed by the histone lysine demethylase 6a (Kdm6a). However, the physiological function of H3k27me3 and Kdm6a on circadian genes remains largely elusive. With the ChIP-Seq and mRNA microarray assays, a critical role is identified for Kdm6a in the regulation of H3k27me3 to impact the expression of Crytochrome 1 (Cry1) in the hypothalamus of diet induced obesity mice. More importantly, both conditional knockout and pharmacological inhibition of Kdm6a reduce body weight and stabilize blood glucose homeostasis. Although a Kdm6a inhibitor fails to decrease body weight in leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice, it significantly decreases Cry1 expression, enhances sensitivity to exogenous leptin administration, and blocks body weight increases in endo-leptin-deficient ob/ob mice. Moreover, gene analysis of the human hypothalamus further reveals a positive correlation between Kdm6a and Cry1. The results show that inhibition of Kdm6a reduces the Cry1 expression and sensitizes leptin signaling to combat obesity-related disease. Therefore, it implicates Kdm6a as an attractive drug target for obesity and metabolic disorders.

Skeletal Muscle and Childhood Cancer: Where are we now and where we go from here

Skeletal muscle (muscle) is essential for physical health and for metabolic integrity, with sarcopenia (progressive muscle mass loss and weakness), a pre-curser of aging and chronic disease. Loss of lean mass and muscle quality (force generation per unit of muscle) in the general population are associated with fatigue, weakness, and slowed walking speed, eventually interfering with the ability to maintain physical independence, and impacting participation in social roles and quality of life. Muscle mass and strength impairments are also documented during childhood cancer treatment, which often persist into adult survivorship, and contribute to an aging phenotype in this vulnerable population. Although several treatment exposures appear to confer increased risk for loss of mass and strength that persists after therapy, the pathophysiology responsible for poor muscle quantity and quality is not well understood in the childhood cancer survivor population. This is partly due to limited access to both pediatric and adult survivor muscle tissue samples, and to difficulties surrounding non-invasive investigative approaches for muscle assessment. Because muscle accounts for just under half of the body's mass, and is essential for movement, metabolism and metabolic health, understanding mechanisms of injury responsible for both initial and persistent dysfunction is important, and will provide a foundation for intervention. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the available evidence describing associations between childhood cancer, its treatment, and muscle outcomes, identifying gaps in current knowledge.

Monitoring of Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Disease in Childhood Cancer Survivors

Advances in cancer treatment have significantly improved childhood cancer survival, although metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease are common long-term complications that may occur years after treatment. Childhood cancer survivors may not receive appropriate follow-up due to lack of communication between oncologists and primary care physicians, or, from lack of awareness of possible long-term metabolic and cardiovascular complications after cancer treatment. We, therefore, reviewed current evidence on long-term effects of cancer therapy, and appropriate monitoring for long-term treatment effects in childhood cancer survivors that could lead to early detection and prompt treatment to prevent future cardiovascular events.

Fatigue, Physical and Functional Mobility, and Obesity in Pediatric Cancer Survivors

BACKGROUND

Survivors of childhood cancer are prone to an increased risk of chronic issues such as cardiovascular disease, fatigue, weight-related problems, and emotional disturbances.

OBJECTIVE

This study utilized the biopsychosocial model to examine the hypothesis that greater depression and lower mobility would be significantly associated with greater fatigue and higher body mass index in survivors of childhood cancer.

METHODS

Data were analyzed for 144 children treated and followed up for an oncology condition at a southeastern academic medical center. Voluntarily, children completed the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 1.0, and parents completed the Family Symptom Inventory as part of a brief annual psychosocial screening battery. Height and weight were collected by a clinic nurse prior to questionnaire completion.

RESULTS

Hierarchical linear regression showed that shorter time since diagnosis (β = -.154, P < .05), greater child-reported depression (β = .396, P < .01), and lower mobility (β = .427, P < .01) significantly predicted greater fatigue (adjusted R = 0.54). Older age (β = .262, P < .01) and not receiving chemotherapy (β = -.209, P < .05) significantly predicted higher body mass index (adjusted R = 0.051).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings showed that fatigue tends to improve over time after treatment but may be predicted by greater depression symptoms and lower mobility in recent survivors of childhood cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

For survivors of childhood cancer with higher levels of fatigue, treating symptoms of depression and maximizing physical and mobility may be of clinical value. With the impact of psychological and social factors not yet understood in pediatric cancer survivors, weight status in recent survivors of childhood cancer is likely a complex interaction between biological and treatment factors.

Increased Levels of Adipocyte and Epidermal Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Survivors

Childhood cancer survivors are highly exposed to the development of side effects after many years of cessation of anticancer treatment, including altered lipid metabolism that may result in an increased risk of overweight and metabolic syndrome. Adipocyte (A-FABP) and epidermal (E-FABP) fatty acid-binding proteins are expressed in adipocytes and are assumed to play an important role in the development of lipid disturbances leading to the onset of metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum A-FABP and E-FABP levels, overweight, and components of the metabolic syndrome in acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors. Sixty-two acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors (34 females) were included in the study. The mean age at the time of the study was 12.41 ± 4.98 years (range 4.71–23.43). Serum levels of A-FABP and E-FABP were analyzed using a commercially available ELISA kit. The ALL survivors presented statistically higher A-FABP levels in comparison with the healthy controls (25.57 ± 14.46 vs. 15.13 ± 7.61 ng/mL, p < 0.001). The subjects with body mass index (BMI) above the normal range (18 overweight, 10 obese) had a greater level of A-FABP compared to the ALL group with normal BMI (32.02 ± 17.10 vs. 20.33 ± 9.24 ng/mL, p = 0.006). Of all participants, 53.23% had at least one risk factor of metabolic syndrome; in this group, only the A-FABP level showed a statistically significant difference compared to the healthy control group (30.63 ± 15.91 vs. 15.13 ± 7.61 ng/mL, p < 0.001). The subjects with two or more metabolic risk factors (16.13%) presented higher levels of both A-FABP (33.62 ± 17.16 vs. 15.13 ± 7.61 ng/mL, p = 0.001) and E-FABP (13.37 ± 3.62 vs. 10.12 ± 3.21 ng/mL, p = 0.021) compared to the controls. Univariable regression models showed significant associations between BMI and systolic blood pressure with the A-FABP level (coeff. 1.02 and 13.74, respectively; p < 0.05). In contrast, the E-FABP level was only affected by BMI (coeff. 0.48; p < 0.01). The findings reported herein suggest that the increased levels of A-FABP and E-FABP may be involved in the pathogenesis of overweight and the onset of metabolic syndrome in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, further longitudinal, prospective studies of fatty acid-binding proteins and their potential role in the pathogenesis of obesity and metabolic syndrome in ALL survivors remain to be performed.

Early signs of metabolic syndrome in pediatric central nervous system tumor survivors after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation and radiation

PURPOSE

Cancer survivors treated with stem-cell transplant (SCT) and radiation therapy are at a high risk for late effects including the metabolic syndrome. This study reviewed the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumor survivors treated with autologous SCT and craniospinal radiation.

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional study in pediatric CNS tumor patients, who underwent a one-time evaluation at least 18 months post-autologous SCT for the presence of components of metabolic syndrome: obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and abnormal glucose levels.

RESULTS

Twelve patients were evaluated, and two (16%) met full criteria for the metabolic syndrome. Seven patients (58%) had at least one component of metabolic syndrome: elevated glucose levels in 8% (1/12), obesity 17% (2/12), hypertriglyceridemia 17% (2/12), and reduced HDL cholesterol in 25% (3/12). None had hypertension. Nine patients (75%) demonstrated abnormal fasting lipid profiles with elevated total cholesterol levels, although only 25% (3/12) fulfilled criteria for a diagnosis of dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric CNS tumor survivors treated with autologous SCT and craniospinal radiation are at risk for early signs of metabolic syndrome, most commonly hyperlipidemia. Further studies evaluating the progression of these early signs to full criteria for the metabolic syndrome diagnosis are required.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Metabolic Syndrome Among Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Survivors: Experience From South India

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Improved survival of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has diverted attention to the long-term consequences of the treatment; metabolic abnormalities being one of the most important issues.

METHODS

Children diagnosed with ALL at age 14 years and younger at Regional Cancer Centre in South India who completed treatment and who were on follow-up for >2 years were enrolled in the study between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019. They were prospectively evaluated for the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) and associated risk factors.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total of 277 survivors of pediatric ALL were recruited during the study period. MS was present in 8.3% (n=23) and 6% (n=13) survivors by National Cholesterol Education Programme Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEPATP III) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in the survivors was 9% and 13%. The prevalence of increased waist circumference, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, elevated fasting glucose, and increased blood pressure were 10.5%, 28.9%, 24.9%, 2.5%, and 9%, respectively. Overweight/obese survivors were at an increased risk for developing MS (odds ratio=17.66; 95% confidence interval=6.2-50.16, P=0.001). Survivors who received cranial radiotherapy were at an elevated risk for having low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, the prevalence of MS was higher in childhood ALL survivors, as compared with the general population. The study points to the need for regular screening of pediatric ALL survivors for early detection of MS, along with lifestyle modification in those with metabolic abnormalities, to curb the growing incidence of coronary artery disease.

Intestinal Dysbiosis and Development of Cardiometabolic Disorders in Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Critical Review

Significance: Survivors of pediatric cancers have a high risk of developing side effects after the end of their treatments. Many potential factors have been associated with the onset of cardiometabolic disorders (CMD), including cancer disease itself, chemotherapy, hormonal treatment, radiotherapy, and genetics. However, the precise etiology and underlying mechanisms of these long-term complications are poorly understood. Recent Advances: Greater awareness is currently paid to the role of microbiota in the emergence of cancers and modulation of cancer therapies in both children and adults. Alterations in the composition and diversity of intestinal microbiota can clearly influence tumor development and progression as well as immune responses and clinical output. As dysbiosis is closely linked to the development of host metabolic diseases, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, it may increase the risk of CMD in cancer populations. Critical Issues: Only limited studies targeting the profile of intestinal dysbiosis before and after cancer treatment have been conducted. Further, the exact contribution of intestinal dysbiosis to the development of CMD in cancer survivors is poorly appreciated. This review intends to clarify the influence of gut microbiota on CMD in childhood cancer survivors, elucidate the potential mechanisms, and evaluate the latest research on the interplay between diet/food supplement, microbiota, and cancer-related CMD. Future Directions: The implication of intestinal dysbiosis in late metabolic complications of childhood cancer survivors should be clarified. Intervention strategies could be developed to reduce the risk of survivors to CMD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 34, 223-251.

Hypogonadism and cancer survivorship

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypogonadism is highly prevalent among not only patients with a history of prior treatment for cancer, but also among those patients with a new oncologic diagnosis who have not yet received any cancer therapy. Hypogonadism can cause a wide array of signs and symptoms including: deceased muscle mass; increased fat mass; decreased energy, mood, and overall sense of well being; diminished bone mineral density; infertility; and impaired libido and sexual function. This purpose of this manuscript is to review the mechanisms by which cancer and oncologic treatment regimens can adversely affect the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis, resulting in hypogonadism. Risks and benefits associated with the treatment of testosterone deficiency are also discussed, which are important considerations for clinicians caring for affected patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hypogonadism has a high prevalence in the setting of cancer and is an important survivorship issue. Recent randomized controlled trials confirm testosterone's therapeutic benefits in terms of sexual function, mood body composition, and bone health, but the specific benefits in terms of quality of life are less clear.

SUMMARY

More prospective studies are needed to further delineate the risks, benefits, and overall outcomes of testosterone replacement therapy in patients with cancer and cancer survivors.

Endocrine Health in Childhood Cancer Survivors

Endocrine late effects, including reproductive disorders and secondary thyroid cancer, have been reported in up to 50 %childhood cancer survivors (CCS) more than 5 years after treatment. Most endocrine disorders are amenable to treatment; awareness of symptoms is therefore of great importance. Recognition of these symptoms may be delayed however because many are nonspecific. Timely treatment of endocrine disorders improves quality of life in CCS and prevents possible consequences, such as short stature, bone and cardiovascular disorders, and depression. At-risk CCS must therefore be regularly and systematically monitored. This article provides a summary of the most commonly reported endocrine late effects in CCS.

Early Arterial Intimal Thickening and Plaque Is Related with Treatment Regime and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Young Adults Following Childhood Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

The long-term vascular effects following childhood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are not well characterized. We compared arterial wall morphology and function using very-high resolution ultrasound (25–55 MHz) in 62 patients following autologous (n = 19) or allogenic (n = 43) HSCT for childhood malignancies and hematological disease (median age 25.9 years, IQR 21.1–30.1; median follow-up time 17.5 years IQR 14.1–23.0) with an age matched healthy control group (n = 44). Intima-media thickness of carotid (CIMT 0.49 ± 0.11 vs. 0.42 ± 0.06 mm, p < 0.001), brachial, femoral, radial arteries, and local carotid stiffness, but not adventitial thickness, were increased (p < 0.001). Diffuse intimal thickening (>0.06 mm) of femoral or radial arteries (n = 17) and subclinical carotid or femoral plaques (n = 18) were more common (p < 0.001). Radiation predicted plaques (p < 0.001) and local carotid stiffness (p < 0.001), but not intimal thickening. CIMT was predicted by age, BMI >30 kg/m², hsCRP >2.5 mg/L, hypertension, HbA1c > 42 mmol/L, and cumulative anthracycline >150 mg/m². Cumulative metabolic syndrome criteria and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were more common among HSCT and related with CIMT (p < 0.001), but CIMT was similar among controls and HSCT without CVD risk factors. Long-term childhood HSCT survivors show early arterial aging related with radiation, metabolic, and CVD risk factors. Prevention of risk factors could potentially decelerate early arterial wall thickening.

Metabolic response to exercise in childhood brain tumor survivors: A pilot controlled study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Survival rates in children diagnosed with malignant brain tumors exceed 70%. A higher risk of dyslipidemia, central obesity, and insulin resistance has been reported among these children. We investigated substrate utilization during submaximal exercise.

DESIGN/METHODS

Ten brain tumor survivors and 10 healthy children were matched by sex, age, and Tanner stage. Participants completed a submaximal incremental exercise test to determine their fat and carbohydrate oxidation rates.

RESULTS

The relative oxygen volume (VO₂ ) peak was significantly higher in the control group than in the survivors of childhood brain tumors (43.3 ± 11.9 and 32.4 ± 10.2 mL/kg /min, P = .04). At the same relative exercise intensity, there was no difference in the carbohydrate or lipid oxidation rate between the two groups, or in the maximal fat oxidation (MFO) rate, or in the heart rate or percentage of VO₂ peak to reach MFO. Healthy children achieved MFO at significantly higher muscular power than did brain tumor survivors (47.9 ± 20.8 and 21.8 ± 9.6 W, P = .003).

CONCLUSION

Because child brain tumor survivors are less physically fit than healthy children, and substrate utilization during submaximal exercise is not different, physical activity should be promoted for child brain tumor survivors.

Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in High-Risk Pediatric Patients: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

This scientific statement presents considerations for clinical management regarding the assessment and risk reduction of select pediatric populations at high risk for premature cardiovascular disease, including acquired arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis. For each topic, the evidence for accelerated acquired coronary artery disease and stroke in childhood and adolescence and the evidence for benefit of interventions in youth will be reviewed. Children and adolescents may be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease because of significant atherosclerotic or arteriosclerotic risk factors, high-risk conditions that promote atherosclerosis, or coronary artery or other cardiac or vascular abnormalities that make the individual more vulnerable to the adverse effects of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Existing scientific statements and guidelines will be referenced when applicable, and suggestions for risk identification and reduction specific to each setting will be described. This statement is directed toward pediatric cardiologists, primary care providers, and subspecialists who provide clinical care for these young patients. The focus will be on management and justification for management, minimizing information on pathophysiology and epidemiology.

Strategies to prevent anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in cancer survivors

Cancer diagnostics and therapies have improved steadily over the last few decades, markedly increasing life expectancy for patients at all ages. However, conventional and newer anti-neoplastic therapies can cause short- and long-term cardiotoxicity. The clinical implications of this cardiotoxicity become more important with the increasing use of cardiotoxic drugs. The implications are especially serious among patients predisposed to adverse cardiac effects, such as youth, the elderly, those with cardiovascular comorbidities, and those receiving additional chemotherapies or thoracic radiation. However, the optimal strategy for preventing and managing chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity remains unknown. The routine use of neurohormonal antagonists for cardioprotection is not currently justified, given the marginal benefits and associated adverse events, particularly with long-term use. The only United States Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency approved treatment for preventing anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy is dexrazoxane. We advocate administering dexrazoxane during cancer treatment to limit the cardiotoxic effects of anthracycline chemotherapy.

Cranial Irradiation in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Is Related to Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Reduced Large Artery Compliance in Cancer Survivors

Long-term survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood malignancy, are at remarkably increased risk of heart failure (HF) in middle age, most likely due anthracycline cardiotoxicity. The role of cranial radiation therapy (CRT) in the development of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, a predecessor of overt HF, remains unclear. Our aim was to compare LV function and systemic arterial properties according to past CRT in young adult survivors of anthracycline-treated ALL. We studied young adult survivors of childhood ALL at a median of 16 years from diagnosis treated with anthracycline-based chemotherapy, with (n = 12) or without (n = 30) CRT. In addition to fractional shortening (FS) and ejection fraction (EF), LV function was quantified by tissue Doppler imaging of the mitral annulus. Aortic strain/distensibility and arterial compliance were derived from echocardiography and simultaneously recorded pulse pressure. Despite similar FS and EF, peak mitral annular systolic velocity (median (interquartile range): 9.0 (7.5–10.0) vs. 10.0 (8.8–11.5) cm/s, p = 0.05), and early diastolic velocity (13.8 (13.0–14.8) vs. 15.5 (14.0–17.3), p = 0.01) were decreased after chemotherapy combined with CRT compared to chemotherapy without CRT. Systemic arterial compliance was lower in post-CRT subjects (1.0 (0.8–1.2 vs. 1.4 (1.1–1.7) mL/mmHg, p = 0.002). Aortic strain and distensibility were similar regardless of prior CRT. In conclusion, lower arterial compliance and subclinical LV dysfunction may be possible late consequences of past CRT in adult survivors of childhood ALL. Whether arterial stiffening is associated with future HF development in CRT-exposed ALL survivors remains to be investigated.

Diabetes mellitus among adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Greater than one-half of children who are treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) develop ≥1 treatment-related medical conditions in their lifetime, many of which are known risk factors for diabetes mellitus. In the current study, the authors evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of diabetes mellitus among clinically assessed adult survivors of childhood ALL METHODS: The authors performed a retrospective evaluation of data from survivors of ALL and community controls who were enrolled in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study between October 1, 2007, and June 30, 2016. Participants were adults with ≥10 years of survival of childhood ALL and community controls who completed clinical and laboratory evaluations. Data for the current analysis were abstracted from medical records. Exposures evaluated herein included chemotherapy and radiation exposures and medical history, including drug-induced diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

Of 1360 eligible adults who were ≥10-year survivors of childhood ALL, a total of 1044 completed the evaluations; these individuals had a mean age of 33.97±9.14 years and 50.86% were male. The 368 controls, 45.65% of whom were male, had a mean age of 35.33±10.21 years. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was found in approximately 7.47% of survivors and 3.80% of controls (odds ratio [OR], 2.07; 95% CI, 1.11-3.87). In adjusted models, among survivors, older age (OR, 1.05 for each additional year; 95% CI, 1.02-1.08), body mass index ≥30 kg/m² (OR, 7.40; 95% CI, 2.61-20.97), and drug-induced diabetes mellitus occurring during ALL therapy (OR, 4.67; 95% CI, 2.53-8.61) were found to be associated with T2DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult survivors of childhood ALL are at an increased risk of T2DM. Adult survivors of childhood ALL who are of older age, with an overweight or obese body mass index, and/or who developed drug-induced diabetes mellitus during treatment should be closely monitored for T2DM during long-term follow-up.

Cardiovascular Testing Detects Underlying Dysfunction in Childhood Leukemia Survivors

PURPOSE

Childhood leukemia survivors commonly develop late-onset cardiovascular disease after treatment with anthracyclines. Resting echocardiogram is the standard procedure for monitoring cardiac health but this method may not be sensitive enough to detect subclinical injury. Exercise echocardiography may provide a viable alternative.

METHODS

Nineteen (9 males; age, 19 ± 3 yr) anthracycline-treated survivors of childhood leukemia and 17 (8 males) healthy individuals of similar age (22 ± 2 yr) were recruited. All survivors had normal resting echocardiography upon recruitment. Exercise echocardiography was performed using contemporary imaging techniques. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD), body composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness (V˙O2peak) were assessed to determine predisposition to additional disease.

RESULTS

Mitral valve peak flow velocity in late diastole (interaction, P = 0.007) increased from rest in survivors (P = 0.023) and controls (P = 0.020) immediately postexercise but did not recover again in the survivors (exercise-recovery, P = 0.784) after recuperation. Consequently, E/A ratio (interaction, P < 0.001) was lower in the survivors at recovery (P < 0.001). Survivors had reduced FMD (7.88 ± 1.70 vs 9.65 ± 2.83; P = 0.030), maximal and recovery HR (P = 0.001; P < 0.001), minute ventilation (P < 0.001), and V˙O2peak (absolute, 2.64 ± 0.62 vs 3.14 ± 0.74 L·min, P = 0.034; relative, 36.78 ± 11.49 vs 45.14 ± 6.80 mL·kg·min; P = 0.013) compared with controls. They also had higher total body fat (percentage, P = 0.034; mass, P = 0.024) and fat mass in the central (P = 0.050), peripheral (P = 0.039) and visceral (P < 0.001) regions. Survivors matched controls with regard to height (173.0 ± 7.8 cm vs 173.8 ± 9.1 cm; P = 0.796), body mass (76.16 ± 19.05 kg vs 70.07 ± 13.96 kg; P = 0.287) and body mass index (25.2 ± 5.1 vs 22.9 ± 2.7; P = 0.109).

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise echocardiography unmasked subclinical diastolic dysfunction that may indicate late anthracycline toxicity in apparently healthy survivors of childhood leukemia. Presence of secondary risk factors indicates increased predisposition to comorbidities and highlights the importance of assessing cardiovascular health during follow-up.

Long-Term Endocrine and Metabolic Consequences of Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review

The number of patients surviving ≥5 years after initial cancer diagnosis has significantly increased during the last decades due to considerable improvements in the treatment of many cancer entities. A negative consequence of this is that the emergence of long-term sequelae and endocrine disorders account for a high proportion of these. These late effects can occur decades after cancer treatment and affect up to 50% of childhood cancer survivors. Multiple predisposing factors for endocrine late effects have been identified, including radiation, sex, and age at the time of diagnosis. A systematic literature search has been conducted using the PubMed database to offer a detailed overview of the spectrum of late endocrine disorders following oncological treatment. Most data are based on late effects of treatment in former childhood cancer patients for whom specific guidelines and recommendations already exist, whereas current knowledge concerning late effects in adult-onset cancer survivors is much less clear. Endocrine sequelae of cancer therapy include functional alterations in hypothalamic-pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and gonadal regulation as well as bone and metabolic complications. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy all contribute to these sequelae. Following irradiation, endocrine organs such as the thyroid are also at risk for subsequent malignancies. Although diagnosis and management of functional and neoplastic long-term consequences of cancer therapy are comparable to other causes of endocrine disorders, cancer survivors need individually structured follow-up care in specialized surveillance centers to improve care for this rapidly growing group of patients.

Long-term effects on growth, development, and metabolism of ALL treatment in childhood

INTRODUCTION

One aim of the long-term care in survivors from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) during childhood is to avoid or limit complications caused by aggressive therapeutic strategies.

AREAS COVERED

ALL survivors are a heterogeneous group according to therapeutic protocols. In the last decades, cranial radiotherapy (cRT) has been largely replaced by intrathecal chemotherapy (CT) with a reduction of endocrine sequelae. Published studies are generally difficult to be interpreted because patients were treated according to different risk-adapted protocols and results are conflicting. We perform this review on endocrine long-term effects in childhood ALL survivors focusing on studies published in the last decades. Articles were selected using the following terms (Mesh terms): 'acute lymphoblastic leukemia' AND 'survivors' AND 'childhood' AND 'growth/puberty/fertility/obesity/metabolic syndrome/bone'.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Most childhood ALL survivors treated with CT alone attain normal height and have adequate pubertal development. Despite recent protocols improvements, ALL survivors still develop long-term metabolic complications (overweight, obesity, and cardiovascular disease) especially the female gender and patients with an increased body mass index (BMI) at diagnosis. The aim of this review is to describe the state of the art on these topics. We should be able to anticipate, prevent, and treat endocrine long-term morbidities through a well-established follow-up strategy.

Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome in Survivors of Childhood Cancer

Endocrine complications, including diabetes and metabolic syndrome, are highly prevalent in childhood cancer survivors. These metabolic derangements may contribute to survivors' risk of excess cardiovascular morbidity and premature mortality. This review summarizes existing knowledge on risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome among childhood cancer survivors, focusing specifically on known risk factors, potential mechanisms, and screening recommendations. Early diagnosis via standardized risk-based screening can improve long-term outcomes in this population. Additional work is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these metabolic complications and to inform the design of risk-reducing interventions and optimize long-term cardiometabolic health among survivors of childhood cancer.

Long-term complications in adolescent and young adult leukemia survivors

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer, defined by the National Cancer Institute as having been diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 39 years old, have not benefited from the same improvements in quality of outcomes and survival that have been seen for individuals diagnosed in childhood or as older adults. Although is leukemia composed of a diverse group of diagnoses, leukemia AYA survivors share unique vulnerabilities with other AYA diagnostic groups. They will spend the majority of their lives as survivors, with clear evidence of adverse medical conditions, health care requirements, and social and psychological needs that differ not only from their peers but also, from the needs of other cancer survivor populations. Furthermore, they share a developmental stage of life in which careers, finances, and family concerns are uniquely impacted by the cancer diagnosis and treatment. Leukemia in AYAs typically presents with higher-risk biologic features, and treatment requires multiagent chemotherapy, including alkylating agents, anthracyclines, high-dose steroids, frequently intrathecal chemotherapy, and sometimes, cranial radiation. Thus, AYAs have significant risks for long-term complications, subsequent malignancies, and accelerated development of usual age-related comorbid conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and dyslipidemias. AYAs require specialized health care monitoring, surveillance for late effects, and periodic evaluation of psychosocial, health behavior, and life goal outcomes.

Metabolic syndrome as cardiovascular risk factor in childhood cancer survivors

Over the past decades, survival rates of childhood cancer have increased considerably from 5 to 30% in the early seventies to current rates exceeding 80%. This is due to the development of effective chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and stem cell transplantation, combined with an optimized stratification of therapy and better supportive care regimens. As a consequence, active surveillance strategies of late sequelae have been developed to improve the quality of survival. Several epidemiological studies have reported an increased incidence of (components of) metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular disease in childhood cancer survivors (CCS). Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) after cranial radiotherapy (CRT) has been previously described as an important cause of MetS. New insights suggest a role for abdominal radiotherapy as a determinant for MetS as well. The role of other risk factors, such as specific chemotherapeutic agents, steroids, gonadal impairment, thyroid morbidity and genetics, warrants further investigation. This knowledge is important to define subgroups of CCS that are at risk to develop (subclinical) MetS features. These survivors might benefit from standard surveillance and early interventions, for example lifestyle and diet advice and medical treatment, thereby preventing the development of cardiovascular disease.

Vascular Structure and Function in Cancer Survivors after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

This study examined the effects of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and associated preparative regimens on vascular structure and function. Measures of carotid artery stiffness and brachial artery endothelial-dependent dilation were obtained in patients who had survived ≥ 2 years after HCT for hematologic malignancy and were diagnosed at ≤21 years. HCT survivors (n = 108) were examined: 66 received total body irradiation (TBI) alone or with a low-dose cranial radiation boost (TBI±LD-CRT), 19 received TBI plus high-dose cranial radiation (TBI+HD-CRT), and 23 received a chemotherapy-only preparative regimen (CHEMO). Siblings (n = 83) were invited to participate as control subjects. Although endothelial-dependent dilation did not differ between siblings and HCT survivors, carotid cross-sectional compliance, cross-sectional distensibility, diameter compliance, and diameter distensibility were greater in siblings than HCT survivors. Comparing the HCT preparative regimens, carotid cross-sectional compliance, cross-sectional distensibility, diameter compliance, diameter distensibility, and incremental elastic modulus were significantly lower in the TBI+HD-CRT group compared with siblings or with TBI±LD-CRT and CHEMO treatment groups. Cross-sectional distensibility and diameter compliance were significantly lower in the TBI±LD-CRT group compared with siblings. TBI±LD-CRT and CHEMO groups did not differ from each other in these vascular measures. HCT preparative regimens containing TBI+HD-CRT resulted in greater arterial decrements, indicating increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary and Growth Disorders in Survivors of Childhood Cancer: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

OBJECTIVE

To formulate clinical practice guidelines for the endocrine treatment of hypothalamic-pituitary and growth disorders in survivors of childhood cancer.

PARTICIPANTS

An Endocrine Society-appointed guideline writing committee of six medical experts and a methodologist.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to remarkable improvements in childhood cancer treatment and supportive care during the past several decades, 5-year survival rates for childhood cancer currently are >80%. However, by virtue of their disease and its treatments, childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk for a wide range of serious health conditions, including disorders of the endocrine system. Recent data indicate that 40% to 50% of survivors will develop an endocrine disorder during their lifetime. Risk factors for endocrine complications include both host (e.g., age, sex) and treatment factors (e.g., radiation). Radiation exposure to key endocrine organs (e.g., hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and gonads) places cancer survivors at the highest risk of developing an endocrine abnormality over time; these endocrinopathies can develop decades following cancer treatment, underscoring the importance of lifelong surveillance. The following guideline addresses the diagnosis and treatment of hypothalamic-pituitary and growth disorders commonly encountered in childhood cancer survivors.

Insight from mitochondrial functions and proteomics to understand cardiometabolic disorders in survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND

Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (cALL) is the most prevalent form of cancer in children. Due to advances in treatment and therapy, young cALL subjects now achieve a 90% survival rate. However, this tremendous advance does not come without consequence since ~2/3 of cALL survivors are affected by long-term and late, severe complications. Although the metabolic syndrome is a very serious sequel of cALL, the mechanisms remain undefined. It is also surprising to note that the mitochondrion, a central organelle in metabolic functions and the main cellular energy generator, have not yet been explored.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether cALL survivors exhibit impairments in their mitochondrial functions and proteomic profiling in relationship with metabolic disorders in cALL survivors compared to healthy controls.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Anthropometric measures, metabolic characteristics and lipid profiles were assessed, mitochondria isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and proteomic analyzed. Our data demonstrated that metabolically. Unhealthy survivors exhibited several metabolic syndrome components (e.g. overweight, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, inflammation) whereas Healthy cALL survivors resemble the Controls. In line with these abnormalities, functional experiments in these subjects revealed a significant decrease in the protein expression of mitochondrial antioxidant superoxide dismutase, PGC1-α transcription factor (a key modulator of mitochondrion biogenesis), and an increase in pro-apoptotic cytochrome c. Proteomic analysis of mitochondria by mass spectrometry revealed changes in the regulation of proteins related to inflammation, apoptosis, energy production, redox and antioxidant activity, fatty acid β-oxidation, protein transport and metabolism, and signalling pathways between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Through the use of proteomic analysis, our work demonstrated a number of significant alterations in protein expression in mitochondria of cALL survivors, especially the metabolically Unhealthy survivor group. Further investigation of these proteins may help delineate the mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunctions exert cardiometabolic derangements in cALL survivors.

Quality of life and chronic health conditions in childhood acute leukaemia survivors

BACKGROUND

Survival of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia involves an increasing risk of long-term morbidities. Due to the impact of cancer treatment and comorbidities, AL survivors may experience a decrease in their health-related quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to describe the long-term comorbidities, related quality of life and their development predictors in these survivors.

METHODS

cross-sectional study of 54 survivors aged ≥18 and who have a survival rate of more than 10 years. Quality of life was assessed by personal interview using SF-36 questionnaire.

RESULTS

53.7% of AL survivors developed more than one comorbidity (24.7% hypothyroidism; 20.3% obesity; 14.8% metabolic syndrome; 18.5% subclinical cardiac dysfunction); 20.3% of them were severe. 73.3% of high-risk leukaemias and 66.6% of patients treated with radiotherapy or stem cells transplantation reported long-term comorbidity, P<.05. Global quality of live score was: 86.3 (14) (classified as very good). Patients with high-risk acute leukaemia (83.2 vs. 89.5), severe long-term comorbidities (80.4 vs. 89.7) and females (81.8 vs. 89.9), reported worse quality of life, P<.05. Physical summary score was worse in: obese (80 vs. 92) and hypothyroid (84.9 vs. 92.4) and radiotherapy-treated survivors (82.3 vs. 87.5); mental summary was worse in survivors with hypogonadism (68.2 vs. 86.3) and trasplanted patients (77.2 vs. 83.1), P<.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute leukaemia survivors reported an increase prevalence of chronic comorbidities, related to cancer-treatment. Despite a decrease in scores for certain physical or mental items, global quality of life was very good in all acute leukaemia survivors, even better than compared with the general population.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the Metabolic Syndrome, and Its Components in Adult Survivors of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

A growing number of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) survivors reach adulthood and face long-term health-related problems. We review risk factors and the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), a cluster of obesity-related comorbidities, including abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, impaired glucose metabolism, and type 2 diabetes in ALL and HSCT survivors.

RECENT FINDINGS

Components of the MetS are already detected during the first year of ALL maintenance therapy and significantly worsen over time. The prevalence of MetS increases at a faster rate in this setting than in the general population. Factors found to be of the greatest potential risk to the development of the MetS are central obesity, increased BMI, irradiation therapy, older age, poor diet, and low level of physical activity. The early onset of MetS and its components among ALL and HSCT survivors calls for early and continuous screening to identify those at risk and to implement preventive measures.

Cranial Irradiation Induces Hypothalamic Injury and Late-Onset Metabolic Disturbances in Juvenile Female Rats

Cranial radiotherapy is one of the most effective tools for treating children with brain tumors. However, radiotherapy-induced late-onset side effects have a significant impact on patients' quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of irradiation on metabolism and the possible molecular and cellular mechanisms behind such effects. Female Wistar rats were subjected to a single dose of 6-Gy whole-brain irradiation on postnatal day 11. The animals were sacrificed 6 h or 20 weeks after irradiation. Cell death and proliferation, microglial activation, and inflammation were analyzed and RNA sequencing was performed. We found that irradiation led to a significantly increased body weight from 15 weeks (p < 0.05) along with white adipose tissue accumulation and adipocyte hypertrophy at 20 weeks, and these changes were accompanied by glucose and lipid metabolic disturbances as indicated by reduced glucose tolerance, increased insulin resistance, increased serum triglycerides, and an increased leptin/adiponectin ratio. Furthermore, irradiation induced cell death, microglial activation, inflammation, and persistent astrocyte reactivity in the hypothalamus. Hypothalamic transcriptome analysis showed that 865 genes were downregulated and 290 genes were upregulated in the irradiated group 20 weeks after irradiation, and further pathway analysis showed that the insulin resistance-related PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and the energy expenditure-related adipocytokine signaling pathway were downregulated. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that the expression of fatty acid metabolism-related proteins and effector proteins was significantly different in the irradiation group. This study demonstrates that ionizing radiation to the juvenile female brain induces hypothalamic damage that is likely to be associated with delayed metabolic abnormalities, and this critical vulnerability of the hypothalamus to irradiation should be taken into consideration in the development of future protective strategies for radiotherapy.

Metabolic and Psychological Impact of a Pragmatic Exercise Intervention Program in Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Pediatric Cancer-Related Cerebral Insult

PURPOSE

To assess metabolic function among adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of childhood cancer-related brain surgery or cranial irradiation (CRT) and to determine feasibility, safety, and metabolic as well as psychological impact of a 6-month exercise program in this cohort.

METHODS

Twenty AYAs aged 15-23 years were recruited. All had completed cancer treatment by age 15.5 and were more than 1 year after end of treatment. Metabolic function was assessed at baseline (T1), after a 6-month non-intervention period (T2), and after the 6-month intervention (T3). Psychological assessments were performed at T1 and T3. Eight to 12 months after the program (T4), its lasting impact was assessed by questionnaire. The 6-month intervention consisted of small group-based, tailored, supervised exercise sessions combining resistance and aerobic exercise. Sessions were offered up to thrice per week and adherence defined as participation in ≥24 sessions. Flexibility was built into the design with an alternative home-based program offered to those who could not attend the gymnasium.

RESULTS

Thirteen of the 20 recruited participants were adherent to the program. There was one fall during exercise, but no injury was sustained. Higher rates of metabolic impairment than would be expected in a healthy cohort were found at baseline both among brain tumor survivors and survivors of total body irradiation. Central adiposity reduced post-intervention (p = 0.014) and improvements in adaptive function were seen. Participants enjoyed the program, but work and study commitments limited attendance.

CONCLUSION

AYA survivors of childhood brain tumors and CRT should be screened for metabolic and psychological well-being. Small group-based exercise is safe, feasible, and enjoyable for this cohort and may benefit them both metabolically and psychologically.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12614000796684. Retrospectively registered July 28, 2014.

Standing up to the cardiometabolic consequences of hematological cancers

Hematological cancer survivors are highly vulnerable to cardiometabolic complications impacting long-term health status, quality of life and survival. Elevated risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease arises not only from the effects of the cancers themselves, but also from the toxic effects of cancer therapies, and deconditioning arising from reduced physical activity levels. Regular physical activity can circumvent or reverse adverse effects on the heart, skeletal muscle, vasculature and blood cells, through a combination of systemic and molecular mechanisms. We review the link between hematological cancers and cardiometabolic risk with a focus on adult survivors, including the contributing mechanisms and discuss the potential for physical activity interventions, which may act to oppose the negative effects of both physical deconditioning and therapies (conventional and targeted) on metabolic and growth signaling (kinase) pathways in the heart and beyond. In this context, we focus particularly on strategies targeting reducing and breaking up sedentary time and provide recommendations for future research.

Prevalence and characteristics of metabolic syndrome in adults from the French childhood leukemia survivors' cohort: a comparison with controls from the French population

The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among adults from the French LEA childhood acute leukemia survivors' cohort was prospectively evaluated considering the type of anti-leukemic treatment received, and compared with that of controls. The metabolic profile of these patients was compared with that of controls. A total of 3203 patients from a French volunteer cohort were age- and sex-matched 3:1 to 1025 leukemia survivors (in both cohorts, mean age: 24.4 years; females: 51%). Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Metabolic syndrome was found in 10.3% of patients (mean follow-up duration: 16.3±0.2 years) and 4.5% of controls, (OR=2.49; P<0.001). Patients transplanted with total body irradiation presented the highest risk (OR=6.26; P<0.001); the other treatment groups also showed a higher risk than controls, including patients treated with chemotherapy only. Odd Ratios were 1.68 (P=0.005) after chemotherapy only, 2.32 (P=0.002) after chemotherapy and cranial irradiation, and 2.18 (P=0.057) in patients transplanted without irradiation. Total body irradiation recipients with metabolic syndrome displayed a unique profile compared with controls: smaller waist circumference (91 vs 99.6 cm; P=0.01), and increased triglyceride levels (3.99 vs 1.5 mmol/L; P<0.001), fasting glucose levels (6.2 vs 5.6 mmol/L; P=0.049), and systolic blood pressure (137.9 vs 132.8 mmHg; P=0.005). By contrast, cranial irradiation recipients with metabolic syndrome had a larger waist circumference (109 vs 99.6 cm; P=0.007) than controls. Regardless of the anti-leukemic treatment, metabolic syndrome risk was higher among childhood leukemia survivors. Its presentation differed depending on the treatment type, thus suggesting a divergent pathophysiology. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov identifier: 01756599.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors after Childhood Cancer Treatment Are Independent of the FTO Gene Polymorphism?

The study objective was to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors in patients treated for childhood cancer (N = 101) and to determine the involvement of clinical (cancer type and therapy) and/or genetic (FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism) factors. Anthropometric features, laboratory findings, and standardized osteodensitometric indices (fat and lean mass) were considered. Overweight/obesity was found in 17.82% of the patients; however, central adiposity was found in as many as 42.5%. At least one abnormality in lipid metabolism was observed in 35.6%. Densitometry revealed elevated levels of fat mass in 44.55% of the patients. None of the parameters studied were associated with the FTO gene polymorphism. Standardized waist circumference was significantly higher in patients treated for leukemia than those treated for solid tumors (p = 0.04). Our findings indicate a high rate of central adiposity among childhood cancer survivors, especially leukemia patients. The prevalence of risk factors of cardiovascular disease after anticancer therapy is not FTO gene polymorphism-dependent.

Genomic determinants of long-term cardiometabolic complications in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors

BACKGROUND

While cure rates for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (cALL) now exceed 80%, over 60% of survivors will face treatment-related long-term sequelae, including cardiometabolic complications such as obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension. Although genetic susceptibility contributes to the development of these problems, there are very few studies that have so far addressed this issue in a cALL survivorship context.

METHODS

In this study, we aimed at evaluating the associations between common and rare genetic variants and long-term cardiometabolic complications in survivors of cALL. We examined the cardiometabolic profile and performed whole-exome sequencing in 209 cALL survivors from the PETALE cohort. Variants associated with cardiometabolic outcomes were identified using PLINK (common) or SKAT (common and rare) and a logistic regression was used to evaluate their impact in multivariate models.

RESULTS

Our results showed that rare and common variants in the BAD and FCRL3 genes were associated (p<0.05) with an extreme cardiometabolic phenotype (3 or more cardiometabolic risk factors). Common variants in OGFOD3 and APOB as well as rare and common BAD variants were significantly (p<0.05) associated with dyslipidemia. Common BAD and SERPINA6 variants were associated (p<0.05) with obesity and insulin resistance, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we identified genetic susceptibility loci as contributing factors to the development of late treatment-related cardiometabolic complications in cALL survivors. These biomarkers could be used as early detection strategies to identify susceptible individuals and implement appropriate measures and follow-up to prevent the development of risk factors in this high-risk population.

Fitness, body composition and vascular health in adolescent and young adult survivors of paediatric brain cancer and cranial radiotherapy

Background Survivors of paediatric brain cancer and/or cranial radiotherapy (CRT) are at an increased risk of developing serious comorbidities. Established risk factors for chronic disease include central obesity, endothelial abnormalities and diminished fitness. Objectives Here we characterised anthropometry, body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), endothelial function, muscular strength and endurance and aerobic fitness in adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors. Methods Twenty survivors (10 male, 10 female; 20 ± 2 years) were compared with 19 matched controls. Muscular strength was assessed using three repetition maximum tests, while muscular endurance was determined as number of repetitions performed per minute. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) was assessed on a treadmill using a modified chronotropic protocol. Anthropometric measurements, HR and BP were taken using standard clinical protocols, while body composition and BMD were determined using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Endothelial function was measured using the flow mediated dilation technique. Results Survivors demonstrated deficits in muscular strength (latissimus dorsi pull-down, p = 0.020; bicep curl, p = 0.009), muscular endurance (squats, p = 0.012; sit-ups, p = 0.030; push-ups, p = 0.013), minute ventilation at peak exericse (p = 0.002) and VO2peak (L/min, p = 0.002; mL/kg/min, p = 0.008; mL/kg LBM/min, p = 0.010). Additionally, survivors had greater waist-to-hip ratios (p = 0.032), resting HR (p = 0.048) and higher percentage of total body (p = 0.017), central (p = 0.009) and peripheral (p = 0.032) fat. Lean body mass (p = 0.004) and BMD (p = 0.005) were lower in the survivor group. Conclusion AYA survivors of paediatric brain cancer and/or CRT exhibit altered body composition, increased resting HR and reduced BMD, muscular strength, muscular endurance and cardiorespiratory fitness compared to controls.

Prevalence of cardiovascular late sequelae in long-term survivors of childhood cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases are well-known late effects of childhood cancer and research on these late effects is a highly important emerging field. We conducted a systematic review with a meta-analysis to give an overview of the current evidence and the prevalence of late cardiovascular events.

PROCEDURE

We included publications in which the study populations were children and adolescents who survived cancer. Outcome was defined as all cardiovascular clinical and subclinical endpoints or diagnoses appearing at least one year after cancer diagnosis. A systematic overview is presented for all included studies. A quantitative meta-analysis was conducted for hypertension and stroke.

RESULTS

Sixty-four papers were included in the review. The age range at cancer diagnosis was 0-24 years; age at the end of follow-up ranged from 7 to 71 years. Prevalence of cardiovascular late effects varied from 0% for stroke up to 70% for subclinical hypertension. Large heterogeneity was found regarding study size, study design, definition of endpoints, and investigation/examination method. The weighted average prevalence was 19.7% for hypertension and 2.3% for stroke. As no specific results for gender, cancer therapy, or age at cancer diagnosis were present in most papers, a detailed comparison and pooled analysis was difficult.

CONCLUSION

This review showed the vast range of cardiovascular late effects after childhood or adolescent cancer therapy. The differences between the papers prevented drawing a conclusive picture of the prevalence of cardiovascular late effects. Large cohort studies and better reporting are needed to improve the knowledge on this topic.

Does the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome Increase in Thyroid Cancer Survivors?

BACKGROUND

The steep rise in thyroid cancer observed in recent decades has caused an increase in the population of long-term thyroid cancer survivors. Other than recurrences of cancer, the long-term health consequences of surviving thyroid cancer, particularly metabolic syndrome, have not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to estimate the risk of metabolic syndrome in thyroid cancer survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Population-based data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were used for the analysis. The data of KNHANES IV-VI from 2007-2014 were obtained. After excluding subjects who were under 19 years old, whose fasting interval was less than 8 hours, and whose data for predefined variables including metabolic syndrome components were incomplete, 34,347 subjects were analyzed. The incidence of metabolic syndrome and its components were evaluated in three groups: subjects with no history of thyroid cancer, subjects diagnosed with thyroid cancer within 3 years of the survey date, and subjects diagnosed more than 3 years before the survey date.

RESULTS

Thyroid cancer diagnoses were made within 3 years of the survey date for 95 subjects (group 1, short-term survivors) and more than 3 years earlier than the survey date for 60 subjects (group 2, long-term survivors). Metabolic syndrome was frequently observed with clinical significance (odds ratio [OR] 1.986 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0-3.70], p = 0.030) in short-term survivors compared with subjects with no thyroid cancer history. Risks for having high blood pressure and high fasting glucose were estimated to be higher in the short-term survivor group (OR 2.115 [CI 1.23-3.64], p = 0.006 and OR 1.792 [CI 1.03-3.11], p = 0.038, respectively). No significant associations were noticed in the long-term survivor group when compared with the group with no thyroid cancer history.

CONCLUSION

Risks for metabolic syndrome, especially high blood pressure and high fasting glucose, were increased in short-term survivors of thyroid cancer but not in long-term survivors when compared with subjects with no history of thyroid cancer.

Metabolic Syndrome in Long-Term Survivors of Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation

Since its introduction more than 50 years ago, hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) has transformed from an inescapably fatal procedure to one where cure from malignant and other nonmalignant hematologic diseases is becoming increasingly common. Nevertheless, longevity is not entirely restored. New causes of mortality have emerged; of particular importance is that of increased cardiovascular disease (CVD), related to metabolic syndrome and its components. Controversy exists over whether the metabolic abnormalities induced are a direct effect of HSCT itself or a consequence of other therapies involved. Analysis of the mechanisms that promote the changes in metabolic components will give insight into future HSCT therapy as well as CVD pathogenesis and prevention.