Risk of second breast cancer in female Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors: a meta-analysis

How I Follow Hodgkin Lymphoma in First Complete (Metabolic) Remission?

Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by a high cure rate in the modern era of medicine regardless of stage, but patients suffer from a high risk of comorbidity associated with the administered therapy. The main aim of this review article is to assess and analyze the various comorbidities associated with Hodgkin lymphoma and address the survivorship of patients, including fertility, secondary cancers due to cardiovascular toxicity, and quality of life. Furthermore, this review explores the optimal strategy for detecting relapse. The treatment paradigm of Hodgkin lymphoma has shifted, with a paradigm shift toward achieving a high cure rate and low toxicity as a standard of care in this patient population. Checkpoint inhibitors, especially nivolumab, in combination with chemotherapy are increasingly being studied in the first line of therapy. However, their long-term toxicity remains to be assessed in longer follow-up. In conclusion, Hodgkin lymphoma survivors, regardless of their treatment, should be followed up individually by a multidisciplinary survivorship team in order to detect and properly treat the long-term side effects of therapy.

Survivorship care for patients curatively treated for Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: a scoping review

PURPOSE

We undertook a scoping review of the literature to synthesize what is known about lymphoma survivorship and develop a comprehensive set of lymphoma-specific survivorship recommendations.

METHODS

We searched the peer-reviewed literature from January 1995 to April 2022, focused on topics relevant to survivorship care in patients ≥ 18 years of age, treated curatively for non-Hodgkin's and Hodgkin's lymphoma, and in remission for at least 2 years.

RESULTS

We retained 92 articles; themes included late effects of treatment (53.3%, 49/92), particularly fatigue and sleep disturbances, and fertility, as well as psychosocial considerations of survivors (27.2%; 25/92), screening for secondary malignancies (22.8%; 21/92), outcomes of interventions to improve survivorship care (10.9%; 10/92), and best practices and elements for survivorship plans (8.7%; 8/92). While there were published guidelines for screening for recurrence and secondary malignancies, despite the considerable number of articles on the psychosocial aspects of survivorship care, there remains limited guidance on screening frequency and management strategies for anxiety and depression, sleep disturbances, and treatment-related fatigue within the lymphoma population.

CONCLUSION

We have developed a comprehensive set of lymphoma-survivorship recommendations; however, work is needed to adapt them to local healthcare contexts.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SURVIVORS

While there is a focus in the literature on the long-term psychosocial impacts of cancer and its treatment on lymphoma survivors, there remains no concrete recommendations on effective screening and management of detriments to quality of life such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, and distress, and availability of local resources vary widely.

Breast Cancer and Mediastinal Hodgkin's Lymphomas: Multidisciplinary Discussion

Treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) has evolved, with modern treatments combining less toxic chemotherapy and radiation, leading to improved long-term disease-free survival. However, there is a higher chance of second cancer, especially breast cancer, following effective HL treatment. The impact of reduced radiation doses and volumes, as well as the use of advanced irradiation techniques, on the risk of second malignancy is not clear. According to medical organizations, the history of chest irradiation is a relative contraindication to breast preservation therapy for women with initial breast cancer, leading to a paradigm of mastectomy. This article proposes a discussion between radiation oncologists and surgeons to review major trials and recent developments on the prevalence of breast cancer following HL therapy, the risk of contralateral cancer, the feasibility of breast conserving surgery (BCS), as well as breast reconstruction modalities.

Risk and outcome of second primary malignancy in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Hodgkin lymphoma survivors demonstrated increased risk of secondary primary malignancies (SPMs), but comprehensive analysis of the risk and outcome of SPMs in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) patients has not yet been reported.

METHODS

Patients with cHL from 1975 to 2017 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Standardized incidence ratios were calculated for the risk of solid and hematologic SPMs in cHL patients compared to the general population. The outcome of cHL patients developing SPMs were assessed by performing survival, competing risks regression, and cox proportional regression analyses.

RESULTS

In a follow-up of 26,493 cHL survivors for 365,156 person years, 3866 (14.59%) secondary cancers were identified, with an standardized incidence ratio of 2.09 (95% CI: 2.02-2.15). The increased risk was still notable after follow-up of 10 years or more, and the risk is more pronounced for patients with female gender, younger age, advanced stage, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The overall survival is worse for cHL patients with SPMs after 11 years of follow-up (P < .0001). The main cause of death for cHL patients with SPMs is not cHL but other causes including SPMs. Multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed SPMs as an independently adverse prognostic factor for cHL survivors (hazard ratio, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.05-1.21, P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significantly increased risk of developing SPMs for cHL survivors. The overall survival is worse for cHL patients and SPMs is an independent prognostic factor for cHL.

Second malignant neoplasms in lymphomas, secondary lymphomas and lymphomas in metabolic disorders/diseases

With inconsistent findings, evidence has been obtained in recent years that metabolic disorders are closely associated with the development of lymphomas. Studies and multiple analyses have been published also indicating that some solid tumor survivors develop a secondary lymphoma, whereas some lymphoma survivors subsequently develop a second malignant neoplasm (SMN), particularly solid tumors. An interaction between the multiple etiologic factors such as genetic factors and late effects of cancer therapy may play an important role contributing to the carcinogenesis in patients with metabolic diseases or with a primary cancer. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the multiple etiologic factors for lymphomagenesis, focusing on the SMN in lymphoma, secondary lymphomas in primary cancers, and the lymphomas associated to metabolic disorders/diseases, which have been received less attention previously. Further, we also review the data of coexistence of lymphomas and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with infection of hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus.

Cancer Prevention for Survivors: Incidence of Second Primary Cancers and Sex Differences-A Population-Based Study from an Italian Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

The number of cancer survivors continues to increase, thanks to advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, the incidence of a second primary cancer (SPC) is also increasing, but limited studies reporting incidence data are available regarding multiple cancers. This study presents our observations on multiple primary malignant cancers, the associations between sites, and the inherent sex differences.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report the data, disaggregated by sex, concerning the SPCs that were recorded in the "Registro Tumori Integrato" (RTI) a population-based cancer registry in Sicily, Italy, as observed in the period from 2003 to 2017, in a total population of approximately 2,300,000. SPCs were divided into synchronous and metachronous cancers. The International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, third edition (ICD-O-3), was used for topographical and morphological classifications. Multiple primary cancers with multi-organ primitiveness were selected from the database of the RTI by extracting patients with more than one diagnosis. SPCs had different histology or morphology from the particular cancer that was considered to be the index cancer case. Multicenter or multifocal cancers, or metastases, were excluded. The percentages of cancer by sex and topography, the average age of incidence, and a breakdown by age were computed.

RESULTS

Differences were observed between sexes in terms of incidence and site for SPCs. The most frequent SPC was skin cancer (20% of the SPCs observed). The associations among sites of multiple cancers are reported.

CONCLUSION

There are many gaps in our knowledge of sex differences in cancer. The study of multiple primary cancers could bring more likely opportunities for evaluation of the cancer burden and trends that can be used to identify new research areas by population health programs, as well as for clinical researchers.

Involved-Field Radiation Therapy Prevents Recurrences in the Early Stages of Hodgkin Lymphoma in PET-Negative Patients After ABVD Chemotherapy: Relapse Analysis of GHSG Phase 3 HD16 Trial

PURPOSE

The HD16 trial of the German Hodgkin Study Group (NCT00736320) demonstrated that radiation therapy in early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma without risk factors cannot be safely omitted, and therefore combined modality therapy (CMT) remains the standard treatment. To demonstrate the local effect of consolidating involved-field radiation therapy (IF-RT), we performed an analysis of the recurrence pattern of positron emission tomography (PET)-negative HD16 patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between 2009 and 2015, 1150 patients with early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma without risk factors were randomly assigned to PET guided to 20 Gy IF-RT after 2 cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine chemotherapy in the HD16 study of the German Hodgkin Study Group. The study was designed as a prospective randomized controlled trial. We correlated the localization of recurrence with the panel-based IF-RT plan, which was drawn up for all patients prospectively, blinded to treatment allocation. Accordingly, we were able to identify recurrences that occurred at least in part inside or outside of the (potential) radiation field (in-field and out-field, respectively).

RESULTS

There were 328 and 300 PET-negative patients assigned to CMT and PET-guided treatment (ie, chemotherapy alone), respectively. Within a median 47-month follow-up, disease progression or recurrence was documented for 15 and 29 patients treated with and without IF-RT, respectively. Relapse localization was unknown in 1 CMT patient. Without IF-RT, 5-year incidence of in-field relapses was 10.5% (95% confidence interval, 6.5-14.6) compared with 2.4% (0.5-4.3) with CMT (P = .0008). There were no relevant differences in out-field recurrences (5-year incidence 4.1% [1.7-6.6] vs 6.6% [3.0-10.3], P = .54). There was no grade 4 toxicity observed during IF-RT, and incidence of second primary malignancies was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

PET-negative patients of the HD16 study showed no significant toxicity after 20 Gy IF-RT, and we demonstrated that omission of IF-RT resulted in more, particularly local, recurrences. Therefore, consolidation IF-RT should still be considered as standard therapy in this setting.

Pregnancy-associated cancer and the risk of second primary cancer

PURPOSE

Hormonal changes related to pregnancy and lactation among women treated for cancer might influence the risk of second primary cancer. We investigated whether pregnancy near the time of breast cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma or other cancer diagnoses is associated with increased risk of developing a new primary cancer.

METHODS

Women born after 1 April 1935 diagnosed with cancer at ages 15-44 years during 1968-2006 were identified in the Danish Cancer Registry. Information about pregnancies from various nationwide registers was used to identify women with a pregnancy-associated cancer defined as a cancer diagnosed 6 or fewer months before the pregnancy, during the pregnancy or up to 1 year after the pregnancy. Second primary cancers were ascertained through 2013, and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using Cox regression models adjusted for age, calendar-period and number of pregnancies with the reference defined as cancer not associated with a pregnancy.

RESULTS

We identified 2,974 women with pregnancy-associated cancer and 31,970 women who were not pregnant near the time of their cancer diagnosis. There was no association between pregnancy-associated cancer and a second cancer (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.79-1.05). Among 680 women with either breast cancer or Hodgkin lymphoma associated with pregnancy, a HR of 1.16 (95% CI 0.87-1.56) for second breast cancer was observed based on 48 cases.

CONCLUSION

While hormonal changes might stimulate development of specific cancers, in particular breast cancer, it is reassuring that risk of breast and other second cancers was not related to pregnancy near the time of a first primary cancer diagnosis.

Childhood cancer survivors face markedly worse overall survival after diagnosis with breast cancer, melanoma, or colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at elevated risk of secondary malignancies (SM). Enhanced screening for SM is recommended, but compliance is poor. We hypothesized that CCS with adult-onset SM (colorectal cancer [CRC], melanoma, or breast cancer [BC]) would present with more advanced disease and have decreased overall survival (OS).

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program was queried for patients diagnosed with cancer at age less than or equal to 18 also diagnosed with adult-onset CRC, melanoma, or BC. A cohort without a history of prior malignancy was likewise identified. Tumor features and clinical outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

CCS with a SM (n = 224) were compared with patients without a childhood cancer history (n = 1,392,670). CCS were diagnosed younger (BC = 37.6 vs. 61.3, p < 0.01, CRC = 35.0 vs. 67.1, p < 0.01, melanoma = 29.6 vs. 61.3 years old, p < 0.01). CCS with BC were more likely to have Stage III or IV disease (25.2% vs. 16.5%, p = 0.01). Hormone-receptor expression also differed; CCS were less likely to develop Luminal A-type tumors (48.6% vs. 66.9%, p = 0.01). After age-adjustment, CCS had worse OS (Hazard ratio: CRC = 2.449, p < 0.01, melanoma = 6.503, p < 0.01, BC = 3.383, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

CCS were younger when diagnosed with a SM. After age-adjustment, OS was diminished. Heightened surveillance may be necessary for CCS diagnosed with SM.

Current overview and special considerations for second breast cancer in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors

Second breast cancer (SBC) is the most common solid cancer among Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) female survivors. We reviewed the related modifying risk factors, radiation-induced carcinogenesis, tumors characteristics, management specificities, prevention and surveillance modalities based on current evidence. The risk of developing SBC may be influenced essentially by the age at HL treatment, follow-up latency, dose of irradiation received and the extent of irradiated field. SBCs generally develop at younger age, they are often bilateral, and exhibit more aggressive biological features and worse prognosis. No firm answer about the benefits of breast surveillance is provided by literature, but compelling evidence tends toward a clinical benefit in early detection. Increasing awareness among health providers' care and current survivors as well as the implementation of screening measures is crucial. Great efforts are ongoing in individualizing treatment strategies for future HL patients and response-adapted approaches are holding promise in prevention of these second malignancies.

Radiation-associated breast cancers in a late-effects cohort: Long-term surveillance is essential

AIMS

Survivors of childhood, adolescent, and young adulthood malignancies have an increased risk of subsequent primary malignancies, particularly after exposure to therapeutic radiation. This study aims to evaluate the mode of surveillance and surveillance compliance, incidence and mode of detection of breast cancer, breast cancer phenotype, and outcomes after radiation-associated breast cancer (RBC) in a late-effects cohort.

METHODS

Women exposed to therapeutic radiation attending the late effects service from 1st January 2000 to 20th February 2013. All invasive and in-situ cancers, benign tumors, and deaths were evaluated. The incidence of breast cancer was compared to the Australian general population. Compliance with breast surveillance recommendations, clinicopathological features, and management of breast cancers were examined.

RESULTS

The prevalence of RBC was 17.1%. Twenty-eight cases of RBC occurred in 24 women, out of 140 women exposed to chest radiation. Patients whose first attendance was ≥15 years after radiation exposure experienced the highest incidence of RBC at 23%. The incidence of breast cancer was 11.2 times the general population (P < .001). Compliance with surveillance mammography was observed in 18.4%. Breast cancers diagnosed after the first attendance to the service were more likely screen-detected (P = .002). Most were hormone receptor positive (84.0%), invasive ductal carcinomas (82.1%), and managed with mastectomy (89.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients attending a dedicated late effects service have a high burden of subsequent malignancies generally occurring after long latency. Judicious management with adherence to long-term surveillance guidelines is advocated.

Patient-Reported Survivorship Care Practices and Late Effects After Treatment of Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

PURPOSE

Multimodal treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) yields excellent outcomes; however, survivors are at risk of developing myriad late and long-term effects.

METHODS

From a convenience sample of 964 survivors of HL (37%) and NHL (63%) using a publicly available Internet-based survivorship care plan (SCP) tool between 2011 and 2016, we examined patient-reported cancer care, toxicities, and survivorship care data.

RESULTS

Of all survivors, 67% were female and 84% were white and 88% were free of cancer. Median age of diagnosis was 28 years for survivors of HL and 49 years for NHL. Many survivors reported treatment with chemotherapy (92%), surgery (52%), and/or radiation (41%), with most radiation delivered to chest/mantle fields (81%). Survivors reported a diversity of radiation- and chemotherapy-related sequelae, including thyroid dysfunction, speaking and/or swallowing changes, pulmonary fibrosis/pneumonitis, heart disease, chronic fatigue, neurocognitive decline, neuropathy, sexual changes, and secondary breast cancers. Few reported receipt of previous survivorship information. Most reported management/comanagement by an oncology specialist after active treatment; however, a shift to management by primary care provider alone was observed as a trend over time in follow-up. Sixty-six percent of users who responded to a follow-up survey reported that they intend to share the SCP with their health care team.

CONCLUSION

Survivors of lymphoma, many of whom are free of disease, report a substantial burden of late and long-term adverse effects, suboptimal delivery of survivorship information, and transitions of care in follow-up in which fragmented systems and/or poor communication may contribute to unmet survivor needs. Multiple opportunities thus exist for which SCPs may be used to improve awareness regarding survivorship and associated adverse effects in addition to communicating follow-up care plans between survivors and treatment teams.

Pregnancy and Breast Cancer: Pathways to Understand Risk and Prevention

Several studies have made strong efforts to understand how age and parity modulate the risk of breast cancer. A holistic understanding of the dynamic regulation of the morphological, cellular, and molecular milieu of the mammary gland offers insights into the drivers of breast cancer development as well as into potential prophylactic interventions, the latter being a longstanding ambition of the research and clinical community aspiring to eradicate the disease. In this review we discuss mechanisms that react to pregnancy signals, and we delineate the nuances of pregnancy-associated dynamism that contribute towards either breast cancer development or prevention. Further definition of the molecular basis of parity and breast cancer risk may allow the elaboration of tools to predict and survey those who are at risk of breast cancer development.

Does the Incidence of Treatment-Related Toxicity Plateau After Radiation Therapy: The Long-Term Impact of Integral Dose in Hodgkin's Lymphoma Survivors

Background

Conventional radiation therapy (RT) has produced unprecedented cure rates in patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) but exposed large volumes of nontargeted tissue to radiation (integral dose).

Objective

Our goal was to report the effects of integral radiation dose on health outcomes in patients with at least 20 years of potential follow-up time.

Methods and Materials

We reviewed the medical records of 365 patients who were treated with RT for HL between 1965 and 1995. All patients were confirmed to have received primary RT with curative intent at our institution for de novo HL. Serious adverse events were classified as HL progression or death, grade ≥3 treatment- or staging-related acute or late effects, second malignancies, or cardiovascular events.

Results

The minimum potential follow-up time was 20 years, and the actual median follow-up time 22 years (range, <1-49 years) for all patients and 27 years (range, 5-49 years) for surviving patients. The overall survival rates at 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 years were 86%, 76%, 64%, 44%, and 27%, respectively. The observed-to-expected ratio for second malignancy was 3.6 (95% confidence interval, 2.9-4.4). Grade ≥3 cardiovascular events occurred in 31% of all patients (n = 112). At the time of the most recent follow up, serious adverse events occurred in 70% of the entire cohort (n = 256) and 58% (n = 103), 77% (n = 103), and 93% (n = 50) among those with a potential 20, 30, and 40 years of follow up, respectively.

Conclusions

With increased survivorship, the long-term impact of the integral radiation dose may result in clinically significant adverse events, which suggests the importance of surveillance and affirms advances in both chemotherapy and RT that minimize the integral dose in future patients with HL.

Challenges and opportunities in the care of survivors of adolescent and young adult cancers

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer are an understudied group. Much of what is known about long-term outcomes after AYA cancer has been derived from cohorts of childhood cancer survivors, which seldom include patients at the older end of the AYA age spectrum. In general, AYA cancer survivors have a lower risk for premature mortality, subsequent primary neoplasms and chronic health conditions than childhood cancer survivors. However, AYA cancer survivors are vulnerable to psychosocial challenges, concerns about fertility and relationships and financial toxicity. No single model is optimal for the care of these survivors, but it is generally agreed that all survivors require a survivor care plan that promotes their adherence to evidence-based surveillance guidelines. There is a need to create survivor cohorts that include the full range of AYA ages and diagnoses to be able to address the many pressing questions that remain unanswered in this vulnerable population.

Breast cancer occurrence after low dose radiotherapy of non-malignant disorders of the shoulder

Stochastic long-term damages at relatively low doses have the potential for cancer induction. For the first time we investigated the occurrence of breast cancer in female patients after radiotherapy of non-malignant disorders of the shoulder and made a comparison with the estimated spontaneous incidence of mammary carcinoma for this cohort. In a geographically defined district with a population of approximately 100.000 inhabitants, comprehensive data of radiological diagnostics and radiotherapy were registered nearly completely for 41 years; data included mammography and radiotherapy of breast cancer patients as well as of non-malignant disorders. Within this population a collective of 158 women with radiotherapy of the shoulder was investigated. Radiotherapy was performed with cobalt-60 photons (Gammatron) with an average cumulative-dose of 6 Gy. The average follow-up time was 21.3 years. Patients were 55 years old (median) when radiotherapy of the shoulder was performed. Seven patients (4.4%) developed breast cancer after a median of 21 years. According to the incidence statistics, 9.4 +/- 1.8 (95%CI) cases (5.9%) would be expected. In regard to the irradiated shoulder neither the ipsilateral nor the contralateral breasts showed increased rates of breast cancer. An induction of additional breast cancer caused by radiation of non-malignant disorders of the shoulder wasn't detected in the investigated cohort.

Risk of second primary tumors in GIST survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors arising in the gastrointestinal tract. Second primary tumors (SPTs) have been reported frequently, either synchronously or during follow-up, in patients diagnosed with GISTs.

METHODS

We carried out an electronic search of PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library seeking articles investigating the incidence of SPTs in patients with concomitant GIST. All studies were evaluated for heterogeneity before meta-analysis and for publication bias. Pooled incidence rate was estimated using fixed- and random-effects models. Subsite of SPTs was also investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria, for a total of 19,627 patients with a diagnosis of GIST. The pooled prevalence of SPTs was 20%, with 14% and 3% being synchronous and metachronous tumors, respectively. We found a risk for several specific cancer sites, in particular gastrointestinal (5%) and genitourinary tract cancers (3%). The most frequently associated malignancies were: colorectal (17%), prostate (14%), gastric (9%), esophageal (5.5%), lung (5.4%), hepato-biliopancreatic (4.7%), breast (4.6%), lymphoma (4.4%), kidney (4.35%), and sarcomas (3.3%). Regression analyses revealed a significant positive association for all SPTs with follow-up and Miettinen risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that 20% of patients with GIST experienced a SPT, primarily synchronously with a diagnosis of GIST. In particular, we observed an excess of incident gastrointestinal tumors. These findings have important implications for both pathologists, who should perform extensive molecular analysis of surgical non-GIST specimens in resected patients, and for oncologists, who should continue to follow up GIST patients.

Risk of second cancer after ion beam radiotherapy: insights from animal carcinogenesis studies

Purpose: To review recent studies to better understand the risk of second cancer after ion beam radiotherapy and to clarify the importance of animal radiobiology therein. Results: Risk of developing second cancer after radiotherapy is a concern, particularly for survivors of childhood tumors. Ion beam radiotherapy is expected to reduce the risk of second cancer by reducing exposure of normal tissues to radiation. Large uncertainty lies, however, in the choice of relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of high linear energy transfer (LET) radiation (e.g. carbon ions and neutrons) in cancer induction, especially for children. Studies have attempted to predict the risk of second cancer after ion beam radiotherapy based on an assessment of radiation dose, the risk of low LET radiation, and assumptions about RBE. Animal experiments have yielded RBE values for selected tissues, radiation types, and age at the time of irradiation; the results indicate potentially variable RBE which depends on tissues, ages, and dose levels. Animal studies have also attempted to identify genetic alterations in tumors induced by high LET radiation. Conclusions: Estimating the RBE value for cancer induction is important for understanding the risk of second cancer after ion beam radiotherapy. More comprehensive animal radiobiology studies are needed.

A Dosimetric Comparison of Breast Radiotherapy Techniques to Treat Locoregional Lymph Nodes Including the Internal Mammary Chain

AIMS

Radiotherapy target volumes in early breast cancer treatment increasingly include the internal mammary chain (IMC). In order to maximise survival benefits of IMC radiotherapy, doses to the heart and lung should be minimised. This dosimetry study compared the ability of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, arc therapy and proton beam therapy (PBT) techniques with and without breath-hold to achieve target volume constraints while minimising dose to organs at risk (OARs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 14 patients' datasets, seven IMC radiotherapy techniques were compared: wide tangent (WT) three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and PBT, each in voluntary deep inspiratory breath-hold (vDIBH) and free breathing (FB), and tomotherapy in FB only. Target volume coverage and OAR doses were measured for each technique. These were compared using a one-way ANOVA with all pairwise comparisons tested using Bonferroni's multiple comparisons test, with adjusted P-values ≤ 0.05 indicating statistical significance.

RESULTS

One hundred per cent of WT(vDIBH), 43% of WT(FB), 100% of VMAT(vDIBH), 86% of VMAT(FB), 100% of tomotherapy FB and 100% of PBT plans in vDIBH and FB passed all mandatory constraints. However, coverage of the IMC with 90% of the prescribed dose was significantly better than all other techniques using VMAT(vDIBH), PBT(vDIBH) and PBT(FB) (mean IMC coverage ± 1 standard deviation = 96.0% ± 4.3, 99.8% ± 0.3 and 99.0% ± 0.2, respectively). The mean heart dose was significantly reduced in vDIBH compared with FB for both the WT (P < 0.0001) and VMAT (P < 0.0001) techniques. There was no advantage in target volume coverage or OAR doses for PBT(vDIBH) compared with PBT(FB).

CONCLUSIONS

Simple WT radiotherapy delivered in vDIBH achieves satisfactory coverage of the IMC while meeting heart and lung dose constraints. However, where higher isodose coverage is required, VMAT(vDIBH) is the optimal photon technique. The lowest OAR doses are achieved by PBT, in which the use of vDIBH does not improve dose statistics.

A genomic copy number signature predicts radiation exposure in post-Chernobyl breast cancer

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide and besides life style, age and genetic risk factors, exposure to ionizing radiation is known to increase the risk for breast cancer. Further, DNA copy number alterations (CNAs), which can result from radiation-induced double-strand breaks, are frequently occurring in breast cancer cells. We set out to identify a signature of CNAs discriminating breast cancers from radiation-exposed and non-exposed female patients. We analyzed resected breast cancer tissues from 68 exposed female Chernobyl clean-up workers and evacuees and 68 matched non-exposed control patients for CNAs by array comparative genomic hybridization analysis (aCGH). Using a stepwise forward-backward selection approach a non-complex CNA signature, that is, less than ten features, was identified in the training data set, which could be subsequently validated in the validation data set (p value < 0.05). The signature consisted of nine copy number regions located on chromosomal bands 7q11.22-11.23, 7q21.3, 16q24.3, 17q21.31, 20p11.23-11.21, 1p21.1, 2q35, 2q35, 6p22.2. The signature was independent of any clinical characteristics of the patients. In all, we identified a CNA signature that has the potential to allow identification of radiation-associated breast cancer at the individual level.

Secondary breast cancer after Hodgkin lymphoma: a case report and literature review

The occurrence of secondary breast cancers in women previously exposed to chest irradiation for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is considered as a major issue for the quality of life of these long-term survivors as well as a challenge for clinical management. This study reports a case of a woman treated for HL at the age of 24 years, who developed breast cancer after an interval of 20 years. This case highlights once again the importance of awareness among HL survivors about their increased breast cancer risk and re-launches the debate about the efficacy of adoption of breast screening guidelines.

Synchronous Hodgkin lymphoma and gastric adenocarcinoma: A rare case report and literature review

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is a lymphoproliferative disease arising in the lymphoid tissue, which is characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells. Adenocarcinoma is the most frequent pathological type of stomach cancer. Improved survival in HL patients leads to the development of secondary malignancies. However, synchronous occurrence of these 2 malignancies is extremely rare. Here, we present a 45-year-old male complaining of a lymph node mass in the neck, without any abdominal symptoms, diagnosed as HL and gastric adenocarcinoma with hepatitis B carrier status. We treated the patient with 8 courses of pirarubicin bleomycin, vincristine, and dacarbazine (modified ABVD), and 4 courses of capecitabine therapy concurrently along with oral entecavir, as the patient survived longer than 20 months.The prognosis of multiple primary malignancies is poor because therapy is difficult, without a standard treatment. The frequency of multiple primary malignancies is increasing in recent years, and second malignancies in patients with cancer should be taken into consideration.

Pregnancy and Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer among women worldwide. The majority of breast cancers are sporadic and the etiology is not well understood. Several factors have been attributed to altering the risk of breast cancer. A full-term pregnancy is a crucial factor in altering the risk. Early full-term pregnancy has been shown to reduce the lifetime risk of breast cancer, while a later first full-term pregnancy increases breast cancer risk. Epidemiological and experimental data demonstrate that spontaneous or induced abortions do not significantly alter the risk of breast cancer. In this study, we briefly discuss the different types and stages of breast cancer, various risk factors, and potential mechanisms involved in early full-term pregnancy-induced protection against breast cancer. Understanding how early full-term pregnancy induces protection against breast cancer will help design innovative preventive and therapeutic strategies. This understanding can also help in the development of molecular biomarkers that can be of tremendous help in predicting the risk of breast cancer in the general population.

Clinical and diagnosis characteristics of breast cancers in women with a history of radiotherapy in the first 30years of life: A French multicentre cohort study

PURPOSE

Irradiation (>3Gy) to the breast or axillae before 30years of age increases the risk of secondary breast cancer (SBC). The purpose of this article is to describe the clinical characteristics of SBC and the way of diagnosis in young women (before the age of national screening) in France who had received previous radiotherapy for a childhood or a young adulthood cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective, multicentre study reviewed the medical records of women with SBC before the age of the national screening who had received irradiation (≥3Gy) on part or all of the breast before 30years of age, for any type of tumour except BC.

RESULTS

A total of 121 SBC were detected in 104 women with previous radiotherapy. Twenty percent of SBC were detected during regular breast screening and 16% of the women had a regular radiological follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our results points out that the main proportion of childhood cancer survivors did not benefit from the recommended breast cancer screening. This result is comparable to other previously published studies in other countries. A national screening programme is necessary and should take into account the patient's age, family history, personal medical history and previous radiotherapy to reduce the number of SBC diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Intensity modulated radiotherapy with fixed collimator jaws for locoregional left-sided breast cancer irradiation

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with the fixed collimator jaws technique (FJT) for the left breast and regional lymph node. The targeted breast tissue and the lymph nodes, and the normal tissues were contoured for 16 left-sided breast cancer patients previously treated with radiotherapy after lumpectomy. For each patient, treatment plans using different planning techniques, i.e., volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), tangential IMRT (tangential-IMRT), and IMRT with FJT (FJT-IMRT) were developed for dosimetric comparisons. A dose of 50Gy was prescribed to the planning target volume. The dose-volume histograms were generated, and the paired t-test was used to analyze the dose differences. FJT-IMRT had similar mean heart volume receiving 30Gy (V30 Gy) with tangential-IMRT (1.5% and 1.6%, p = 0.41), but inferior to the VMAT (0.8%, p < 0.001). In the average heart mean dose comparison, FJT-IMRT had the lowest value, and it was 0.6Gy lower than that for the VMAT plans (p < 0.01). A significant dose increase in the contralateral breast and lung was observed in VMAT plans. Compared with tangential-IMRT and VMAT plans, FJT-IMRT reduced the mean dose of thyroid, humeral head and cervical esophageal by 47.6% (p < 0.01) and 45.7% (p < 0.01), 74.3% (p = < 0.01) and 73% (p = < 0.01), and 26.7% (p = < 0.01) and 29.2% (p = < 0.01). In conclusion, compared with tangential-IMRT and VMAT, FJT-IMRT plan has the lowest thyroid, humeral head and cervical esophageal mean dose and it can be a reasonable treatment option for a certain subgroup of patients, such as young left-breast cancer patients and/or patients with previous thyroid disease.

Impact of self-reported data on the acquisition of multi-generational family history and lifestyle factors among women seen in a high-risk breast screening program: a focus on modifiable risk factors and genetic referral

BACKGROUND

The phrase "high-risk for breast cancer" is used to identify various groups at elevated cancer risk, and the appropriate surveillance and risk-reducing strategies differ based on the etiology of risk. Here, we review the utility of patient-reported data to capture women with modifiable lifestyle risk factors and those suitable for genetic counseling referral.

METHODS

Patient-reported data from a web-based survey were used to capture personal history, multi-generational family history, and lifestyle factors (body mass index, alcohol consumption, physical activity). Responses were tabulated, and percentage of patients who met criteria for possible intervention calculated.

RESULTS

1277 women completed the survey from October 2014 to December 2015. Women were considered high risk for a combination of the following: family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer (77%), history of atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (35%), known breast cancer-related gene mutation (11%). Based on self-reported data, 65% qualified for genetic evaluation but 40% reporting no prior testing. Only half of the population met national physical activity recommendations, nearly 40% were overweight/obese, and 18% reported consuming ≥1 alcoholic beverage per day.

CONCLUSIONS

Among women followed in a high-risk breast surveillance program, there is considerable opportunity for improved genetic referral and awareness of modifiable lifestyle factors based on self-reported data as 60% of respondents reported a possible area for intervention. While risk reduction associated with lifestyle changes is modest in comparison to chemoprevention or surgery, such changes are practically without risk, minimally expensive, and provide innumerable secondary health benefits.

Modern therapies and iatrogenic changes in breast pathology

Iatrogenic changes within the breast can provide challenges for the histopathologist in routine practice. Diagnostic procedures, such as core biopsies, result in reactive changes and can cause displacement of benign and malignant cells, the interpretation of which may cause difficulties in the resection specimen. Breast augmentation surgery with implants or injection of fillers, performed for cosmetic reasons or as part of a reconstructive process following removal of breast cancer, also produces reactive changes locally and at distant sites that may mimic cancer. The entity of implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma is now well recognized, with progress in our understanding of the underlying biological factors that drive its development. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy used in the treatment of breast cancer causes characteristic changes in normal breast tissue, and can alter the histological appearance and receptor status of the tumour. Radiotherapy to the breast, for breast cancer or childhood malignancies, increases the risk of developing a secondary malignancy in the breast long after treatment. In this review, we describe some of the iatrogenic changes that may be seen in histological specimens from the breast.

Adjuvant radiotherapy for primary breast cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers and risk of contralateral breast cancer with special attention to patients irradiated at younger age

The purpose of this study was to estimate the influence of adjuvant radiotherapy for primary breast cancer (BC) on the risk of contralateral BC (CBC) in BRCA1 or BRCA2(BRCA1/2) mutation carriers, with special attention to patients irradiated at age younger than 40 years. Additionally, tendencies in locoregional treatments and rates of contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy over time were explored. In this retrospective cohort study, 691 BRCA1/2-associated BC patients treated between 1980 and 2013 were followed from diagnosis until CBC or censoring event including ipsilateral BC recurrence, distant metastasis, contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy, other invasive cancer diagnosis, death, or loss to follow up. Hazard ratios (HR) for CBC associated with radiotherapy were estimated using Cox regression. Median follow-up time was 8.6 years [range 0.3–34.3 years]. No association between radiotherapy for primary BC and risk of CBC was found, neither in the total population (HR 0.82, 95 % CI 0.45–1.49) nor in the subgroup of patients younger than 40 years at primary diagnosis (HR 1.36, 95 % CI 0.60–3.09). During follow-up, the number of patients at risk decreased substantially since a large proportion of patients were censored after contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy or BC recurrence. Over the years, increasing preference for mastectomy without radiotherapy compared to breast-conserving surgery with radiotherapy was found ranging from less than 30 % in 1995 to almost 50 % after 2010. The rate of contralateral risk-reducing mastectomy increased over the years from less than 40 % in 1995 to more than 60 % after 2010. In this cohort of BRCA1/2-associated BC patients, no association between radiotherapy for primary BC and risk of CBC was observed in the total group, nor in the patients irradiated before the age of 40 years. The number of patients at risk after 10 and 15 years of follow-up, however, was too small to definitively exclude harmful effects of adjuvant radiotherapy.

Mammographic screening in BRCA1 mutation carriers postponed until age 40: Evaluation of benefits, costs and radiation risks using models

PURPOSE

BRCA1 mutation carriers are offered screening with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammography. The aim of this study was to weigh benefits and risks of postponing mammographic screening until age 40.

METHODS

With the MISCAN microsimulation model two screening protocols were evaluated: 1) the current Dutch guidelines: annual MRI from age 25-60, annual mammography from age 30-60, and biennial mammography in the nationwide program from age 60-74, and 2) the modified protocol: with annual mammography postponed until age 40. A cost-effectiveness analysis was performed. The risks of radiation-induced breast cancer mortality were estimated with absolute and relative exposure-risk models of the 7th Biological Effects of Ionising Radiation Committee.

RESULTS

Current screening guidelines prevent 13,139 breast cancer deaths per 100,000 BRCA1 mutation carriers. Postponing mammography until age 40 would increase breast cancer deaths by 23 (0.17%), but would also reduce radiation-induced breast cancer deaths by 15 or 105 using the absolute and relative risk model respectively per 100,000 women screened. The estimated net effect is an increase of eight or a reduction of 82 breast cancer deaths per 100,000 women screened (depending on the risk model used). The incremental cost of mammograms between age 30-39 is €272,900 per life year gained.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified protocol may be slightly less effective or even better than the current guidelines. The high cost-savings justify a possible small loss of effectiveness.

ReCAP: ASCO Core Curriculum for Cancer Survivorship Education

CONTEXT AND QUESTION(S) ASKED:

The number of cancer survivors is increasing exponentially. Currently there about 15 million cancer survivors, and by 2025, there will be nearly 20 million. Who will provide survivorship care, what are evidenced-based or best care practices, what are best methods to disseminate this information and assess its impact on physician practice, and what are the most cost-effective health care delivery models to serve the majority of survivors?

SUMMARY ANSWER:

The ASCO Survivorship Committee in collaboration with the ASCO Professional Development Committee developed a core curriculum and core competencies for physicians, allied health professionals, training programs, and policymaking organizations. Adapted from Institute of Medicine recommendations for survivorship care, the core curriculum and competencies include the following subheadings: surveillance for recurrence and second malignancies, long-term and late effects, health promotion and prevention, psychosocial well-being, special populations including adolescent and young adult survivors, older adult cancer survivors, caregivers of cancer survivors and communication and care coordination.

METHODS:

An environmental scan (a process that systematically surveys and interprets relevant data to identify opportunities and barriers) for survivorship was performed. Although survivorship content exists in various courses, conferences, guidelines, and Web-based applications, the information is incomplete and not easily found. Hence, there was a need for this content to be easy to access and available in one place. Content experts formulated the individual sections based on the environmental scan and their knowledge of the various subheadings.

BIAS, CONFOUNDING FACTOR(S), DRAWBACKS:

Both an environmental scan and a comprehensive literature review have standard methodologies. The differences are in scope; an environmental scan is more like an overview, and the standard literature review is more granular. For this article, we felt that environmental scan better served the purpose of developing a survivorship core curriculum and competencies.

REAL-LIFE IMPLICATIONS:

Survivorship care is one the most challenging problems oncologists face today and in the near future. Fundamental to the relatively new field of survivorship care is this core curriculum and competencies, which provide the framework necessary to generate appropriate referrals depending on local practices and expertise.

Targeted Therapies for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Combating a Stubborn Disease

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) constitute a heterogeneous subtype of breast cancers that have a poor clinical outcome. Although no approved targeted therapy is available for TNBCs, molecular-profiling efforts have revealed promising molecular targets, with several candidate compounds having now entered clinical trials for TNBC patients. However, initial results remain modest, thereby highlighting challenges potentially involving intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity and acquisition of therapy resistance. We present a comprehensive review on emerging targeted therapies for treating TNBCs, including the promising approach of immunotherapy and the prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. We discuss the impact of pathway rewiring in the acquisition of drug resistance, and the prospect of employing combination therapy strategies to overcome challenges towards identifying clinically-viable targeted treatment options for TNBC.

Risk of second malignancies in patients with early-stage classical Hodgkin's lymphoma treated in a modern era

Second malignancies remain an issue affecting morbidity and mortality in long-term survivors of early stage Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL). We undertook this study to determine if treatment in the modern era resulted in decreased second malignancies. Patients diagnosed with stage I–II cHL between 1988 and 2009 who received radiation therapy (RT) were selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Freedom from second malignancy (FFSM) was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Univariate analysis (UVA) was performed using the Log-Rank test, and included age, gender, year of diagnosis, and stage. Multivariable analysis (MVA) was performed using Cox Proportional Hazards modeling. The study cohort included 8807 patients. The median age at diagnosis was 32 years (range: 2–85). The majority of patients had stage II disease (n = 6044, 69%), 597 (7%) had extranodal involvement (ENI), and 1925 (22%) had B symptoms. Median follow-up for the entire cohort was 7.2 years (range: 0–22). Five hundred twenty-three (6%) patients developed a second malignancy. Median latency to second malignancy was 5.8 years (range: 0.1–21.5). Of the 523 patients that developed a second malignancy, 228 (44%) occurred in the first 5 years, 139 (27%) were diagnosed between years 5–10, and 156 (30%) beyond 10 years. The 10 year FFSM for patients treated between 1988 and 1999 was 93.0% versus 95.1% for patients treated between 2000 and 2009 (P = 0.04), On MVA, treatment between 2000 and 2009 was associated with a HR for second malignancy of 0.77 (95% Confidence Interval: 0.62–0.96, P = 0.02) compared to the treatment between 1988 and 1999. Our analysis suggests that in patients treated with RT for stage I or II cHL, treatment prior to 2000 had a slightly higher risk of second malignancy compared to treatment in 2000 and later. Further studies, with longer follow-up of patients treated in the modern era are needed to confirm these findings.

Secondary cancer in a survivor of Hodgkin's lymphoma: A case report and review of the literature

Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) is one of the most curable malignant diseases in adults. However, HL patients have a higher risk of developing second malignancies compared with the general population. The population of adult cancer survivors is growing, thus, the long-term effects of cancer treatment, including secondary cancer development, have become an increasingly important concern in the field of oncology. The current study presents the case of a female HL survivor who developed two secondary malignancies within 29 years of follow-up. Furthermore, a review of the literature was conducted, which focused on secondary breast and gastrointestinal cancers in HL survivors.

Diagnostic and therapeutic ionizing radiation and the risk of a first and second primary breast cancer, with special attention for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers: a critical review of the literature

Occurrence of breast cancer is a well-known long-term side effect of ionizing radiation (both diagnostic and therapeutic). The radiation-induced breast cancer risk increases with longer follow-up, higher radiation dose and younger age of exposure. The risk for breast cancer following irradiation for lymphomas is well known. Although data regarding the carcinogenic risk of adjuvant radiotherapy for a primary breast cancer are sparse, an increased risk is suggested with longer follow-up mainly when exposed at younger age. Particularly, patients with a BRCA1/2 mutation might be more sensitive for the deleterious effects of ionizing radiation due to an impaired capacity of repairing double strand DNA breaks. This might have consequences for the use of mammography in breast cancer screening, as well as the choice between breast conserving therapy including radiotherapy and mastectomy at primary breast cancer diagnosis in young BRCA1/2 mutation carriers. Good data regarding this topic, however, are scarce, mainly due to constraints in the design of performed studies. In this review, we will discuss the current literature on the association between ionizing radiation and developing breast cancer, with particular attention to patients with a BRCA1/2 mutation.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI): are breath-hold and volumetric radiation therapy techniques useful?

BACKGROUND

In a selective group of patients accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) might be applied after conservative breast surgery to reduce the amount of irradiated healthy tissue. The role of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and voluntary moderately deep inspiration breath-hold (vmDIBH) techniques in further reducing irradiated healthy--especially heart--tissue is investigated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For 37 partial breast planning target volumes (PTVs), three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) (3-5 coplanar or non-coplanar 6 and/or 10 MV beams) and VMAT (two partial 6 MV arcs) plans were made on CTs acquired in free-breathing (FB) and/or in vmDIBH. Dose-volume parameters for the PTV, heart, lungs, and breasts were compared.

RESULTS

Better dose conformity was achieved with VMAT compared to 3D-CRT (conformity index 1.24±0.09 vs. 1.49±0.20). Non-PTV ipsilateral breast receiving ≥50% of the prescribed dose was on average reduced by 28% in VMAT plans compared to 3D-CRT plans. Mean heart dose (MHD) reduced from 2.0 (0.1-5.1) Gy in 3D-CRT(FB) to 0.6 (0.1-1.6) Gy in VMAT(vmDIBH). VMAT is beneficial for MHD reduction if MHD with 3D-CRT exceeds 0.5Gy. Cardiac dose reduction as a result of VMAT increases with increasing initial MHD, and adding vmDIBH reduces the cardiac dose further. Mean dose to the ipsilateral lung decreased from 3.7 (0.7-8.7) to 1.8 (0.5-4.0) Gy with VMAT(vmDIBH) compared to 3D-CRT(FB). VMAT resulted in a slight increase in the contralateral breast dose (DMean) always remaining <1.9 Gy).

CONCLUSIONS

For APBI patients, VMAT improves PTV dose conformity and delivers lower doses to the ipsilateral breast and lung compared to 3D-CRT. This goes at the cost of a slight but acceptable increase of the contralateral breast dose. VMAT reduces cardiac dose if MHD exceeds 0.5 Gy for 3D-CRT. Adding vmDIBH results in a further reduction of heart and ipsilateral lung dose.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy and breath-hold in image-guided locoregional left-sided breast irradiation

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and/or voluntary moderate deep inspiration breath-hold (vmDIBH) in the radiation therapy (RT) of left-sided breast cancer including the regional lymph nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For 13 patients, four treatment combinations were compared; 3D-conformal RT (i.e., forward IMRT) in free-breathing 3D-CRT(FB), 3D-CRT(vmDIBH), 2 partial arcs VMAT(FB), and VMAT(vmDIBH). Prescribed dose was 42.56 Gy in 16 fractions. For 10 additional patients, 3D-CRT and VMAT in vmDIBH only were also compared.

RESULTS

Dose conformity, PTV coverage, ipsilateral and total lung doses were significantly better for VMAT plans compared to 3D-CRT. Mean heart dose (D(mean,heart)) reduction in 3D-CRT(vmDIBH) was between 0.9 and 8.6 Gy, depending on initial D(mean,heart) (in 3D-CRT(FB) plans). VMAT(vmDIBH) reduced the D(mean,heart) further when D(mean,heart) was still >3.2 Gy in 3D-CRT(vmDIBH). Mean contralateral breast dose was higher for VMAT plans (2.7 Gy) compared to 3DCRT plans (0.7 Gy).

CONCLUSIONS

VMAT and 3D-CRT(vmDIBH) significantly reduced heart dose for patients treated with locoregional RT of left-sided breast cancer. When Dmean,heart exceeded 3.2 Gy in 3D-CRT(vmDIBH) plans, VMAT(vmDIBH) resulted in a cumulative heart dose reduction. VMAT also provided better target coverage and reduced ipsilateral lung dose, at the expense of a small increase in the dose to the contralateral breast.

Perspectives of a lifelong cancer survivor--improving survivorship care

Many of the 14 million cancer survivors in the USA live with physical, emotional and day-to-day concerns related to their cancer long after their treatment ends. Addressing the needs of the growing cancer-survivor population will be a considerable task. In this article, Ruth Rechis--a 20-year survivor of Hodgkin lymphoma--describes her personal account of surviving cancer and her experience as a researcher and advocate in the field of survivorship. Results from a national USA survey on survivorship are shared, illustrating gaps in meeting the needs of long-term survivors. A list of 'essential elements' of survivorship care is highlighted to introduce all practitioners to the components necessary for the provision of care after treatment ends. Finally, Rechis provides recommendations for engaging survivors as active participants in their post-treatment, long-term survivorship care and to ensure appropriate care is universally available as part of patient-centred comprehensive care.

Increased risk of second lung cancer in Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients treated for Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) have a higher risk of developing second lung cancer (SLC) compared with the general population. The aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify such risk and to analyze contributing risk factors in HL survivors.

METHODS

According to predefined selection criteria, a literature search identified 21 studies that were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

After eliminating overlapping or duplicate data, 793 (76 % males) incidences of SLC were encountered in 74,831 patients (58 % males) with HL over a median follow-up of 11.5 years. The median age at HL diagnosis and the median age at SLC diagnosis were 33.0 and 45.9, respectively. The mean latency between treatment of HL and development of SLC was 11.5 years. The pooled relative risk (RR) of SLC was 4.62 (95 % confidence interval [CI], 3.18-6.70], I (2) = 98 %), with a median absolute excess rate of 10.4 per 10,000 person-years. RR was positively related to study size, male-to-female ratio, institutional versus population-based data sets, and the use of any radiotherapy (RT) or combined modality therapy (CMT), while age at diagnosis of HL was not significant. The highest risk was shown among patients aged 15-24 years (RR = 8.76 [95 % CI, 4.55-16.89]), while the lowest risk occurred in patients ≥55 years at primary treatment (RR = 2.88 [95 % CI, 2.33-3.56]). RR increased by increasing duration of follow-up, reaching the highest value at 10-14 years (RR = 4.17 [95 % CI, 3.62-8.81]), but did not increase after ≥15 years (RR = 4.01 [95 % CI, 2.68-5.98]). RT only, CMT, or chemotherapy only was associated with RR (95 % CI) of 4.88 (3.14-7.60), 5.15 (4.08-6.50), and 2.39 (1.60-3.55), respectively. Patients with SLC demonstrated poor prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The current meta-analysis provided a detailed estimate of the risk of SLC among HL survivors. The obtained results may provide guidelines concerning lung cancer screening for this population.