Long-Term Risk of Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms After Treatment of Childhood Cancer in the DCOG LATER Study Cohort: Role of Chemotherapy

Long-Term Risk of Subsequent Neoplasms in 5-Year Survivors of Childhood Neuroblastoma: A Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study-LATER 3 Study

PURPOSE

Neuroblastoma survivors have an increased risk of developing subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs), but the risk of subsequent nonmalignant neoplasms (SNMNs) and risk factors are largely unknown. We analyzed the long-term risks and associated risk factors for developing SMNs and SNMNs in a well-characterized cohort of 5-year neuroblastoma survivors.

METHODS

We included 563 5-year neuroblastoma survivors from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS)-LATER cohort, diagnosed during 1963-2014. Subsequent neoplasms were ascertained by linkages with the Netherlands Cancer Registry and the Dutch Nationwide Pathology Databank (Palga) and medical chart review. We calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), absolute excess risk (AER), and cumulative incidences. Multivariable competing risk regression analysis was used to evaluate risk factors.

RESULTS

In total, 23 survivors developed an SMN and 60 an SNMN. After a median follow-up of 23.7 (range, 5.0-56.3) years, the risk of SMN was elevated compared with the general population (SIR, 4.0; 95% CI, 2.5 to 5.9; AER per 10,000 person-years, 15.1). The 30-year cumulative incidence was 3.4% (95% CI, 1.9 to 6.0) for SMNs and 10.4% (95% CI, 7.3 to 14.8) for SNMNs. Six survivors developed an SMN after iodine-metaiodobenzylguanidine (131IMIBG) treatment. Survivors treated with 131IMIBG had a higher risk of developing SMNs (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR], 5.7; 95% CI, 1.8 to 17.8) and SNMNs (SHR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.2 to 5.6) compared with survivors treated without 131IMIBG; results for SMNs were attenuated in high-risk patients only (SMNs SHR, 3.6; 95% CI, 0.9 to 15.3; SNMNs SHR, 1.5; 95% CI, 0.7 to 3.6).

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that neuroblastoma survivors have an elevated risk of developing SMNs and a high risk of SNMNs. 131IMIBG may be a treatment-related risk factor for the development of SMN and SNMN, which needs further validation. Our results emphasize the need for awareness of subsequent neoplasms and the importance of follow-up care.

Bone complications of cancer treatment

With the advancements in conventional treatment modalities such as radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, as well as the emergence of immunotherapy, the overall cure rate for solid tumor malignancies has experienced a significant increase. However, it is unfortunate that exposure to cancer treatments can have detrimental effects on the function of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, disturbing bone metabolic homeostasis in patients, as well as causing damage to bone marrow cells and other bone tissues. Consequently, certain tumor treatment options may pose a risk for subsequent bone diseases. Common bone disorders associated with cancer treatment include osteonecrosis, bone loss, and secondary bone tumors. (1)Cancer treatment-related osteonecrosis is primarily linked to the use of radiation therapy and certain chemicals, such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, antiangiogenic agents, and immunomodulators. It has been observed that high-dose radiation therapy is more likely to result in osteonecrosis. (2)Chemicals and hormones, particularly sex hormones, glucocorticoids, and thyroid hormones or thyrotropic hormones, are among the factors that can contribute to cancer treatment-related bone loss. (3)Secondary bone tumors differ from metastases originating from primary tumors, and radiotherapy plays a significant role in their development, while chemotherapy may also exert some influence. Radiogenic secondary bone tumors are predominantly malignant, with osteosarcoma being the most common type. Chemotherapy may be a risk factor for the relatively rare occurrence of secondary Ewing sarcoma of the bone. These treatment-related bone disorders have a considerable adverse impact on the prognosis of cancer patients. Hence, it is imperative to prioritize the bone health of patients undergoing cancer treatment and give it further attention.

Increased risk of subsequent neoplasm after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in 5-year survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors are at risk for developing subsequent neoplasms, but there is limited information on long-term risks and risk factors for both subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) and subsequent non-malignant neoplasms (SNMNs). We analyzed long-term risk and risk factors for SMNs and SNMNs among 3291 5-year ALL survivors from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study-LATER cohort (1963-2014). We calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and cumulative incidences and used multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analyses for analyzing risk factors. A total of 97 survivors developed SMNs and 266 SNMNs. The 30-year cumulative incidence was 4.1% (95%CI: 3.5-5.3) for SMNs and 10.4%(95%CI: 8.9-12.1) for SNMNs. Risk of SMNs was elevated compared to the general population (SIR: 2.6, 95%CI: 2.1-3.1). Survivors treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with total body irradiation (TBI) (HR:4.2, 95%CI: 2.3-7.9), and without TBI (HR:4.0,95%CI: 1.2-13.7) showed increased SMN risk versus non-transplanted survivors. Cranial radiotherapy (CRT) was also a risk factor for SMNs (HR:2.1, 95%CI: 1.4-4.0). In conclusion, childhood ALL survivors have an increased SMN risk, especially after HSCT and CRT. A key finding is that even HSCT-treated survivors without TBI treatment showed an increased SMN risk, possibly due to accompanied chemotherapy treatment. This emphasizes the need for careful follow-up of HSCT and/or CRT-treated survivors.

Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity among childhood cancer survivors in the Netherlands: A DCCSS LATER study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity in Dutch childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) compared with sibling controls and the Dutch general population. Other aims were to assess associated factors of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, overweight, and obesity and to identify subgroups of CCSs at risk for these unhealthy statuses.

METHODS

The authors included 2253 CCSs and 906 siblings from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study-Late Effects After Childhood Cancer cohort, part 1, and added data from the Dutch general population. Questionnaire data were collected on overweight and obesity (body mass index >25.0 kg/m2), meeting physical activity guidelines (>150 minutes per week of moderate or vigorous exercises), excessive alcohol consumption (>14 and >21 alcoholic consumptions per week for women and men, respectively), daily smoking, and monthly drug use. Multivariable logistic regression analyses and two-step cluster analyses were performed to examine sociodemographic-related, health-related, cancer-related, and treatment-related associated factors of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and to identify subgroups of CCSs at risk for multiple unhealthy behaviors.

RESULTS

CCSs more often did not meet physical activity guidelines than their siblings (30.0% vs. 19.3%; p < .001). Married as marital status, lower education level, nonstudent status, and comorbidities were common associated factors for a body mass index ≥25.0 kg/m2 and insufficient physical activity, whereas male sex and lower education were shared associated factors for excessive alcohol consumption, daily smoking, and monthly drug use. A subgroup of CCSs was identified as excessive alcohol consumers, daily smokers, and monthly drug users.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results emphasize the factors associated with unhealthy behaviors and the potential identification of CCSs who exhibit multiple unhealthy lifestyle behaviors.

Selective pressures of platinum compounds shape the evolution of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms

Therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (t-MN) arise as a complication of chemo- and/or radiotherapy. Although t-MN can occur both in adult and childhood cancer survivors, the mechanisms driving therapy-related leukemogenesis likely vary across different ages. Chemotherapy is thought to induce driver mutations in children, whereas in adults pre-existing mutant clones are selected by the exposure. However, selective pressures induced by chemotherapy early in life are less well studied. Here, we use single-cell whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic inference to show that the founding cell of t-MN in children starts expanding after cessation of platinum exposure. In patients with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, characterized by a germline TP53 mutation, we find that the t-MN already expands during treatment, suggesting that platinum-induced growth inhibition is TP53-dependent. Our results demonstrate that germline aberrations can interact with treatment exposures in inducing t-MN, which is important for the development of more targeted, patient-specific treatment regimens and follow-up.

Cognitive impairment following breast cancer treatments: an umbrella review

OBJECTIVES

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) refers to a cognitive decline associated with cancer or its treatments. While research into CRCI is expanding, evidence remains scattered due to differences in study designs, methodologies, and definitions. The present umbrella review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding the impact of different breast cancer therapies on cognitive functioning, with a particular focus on the interplay among objective cognitive deficits (ie, measured with standardized tests), subjective cognitive concerns, (ie, self-reported), and other mediating psycho-physical factors.

METHODS

The search was made in Pubmed, Embase, and Scopus for articles published until July 2023, following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis protocol.

RESULTS

Chemotherapy and endocrine therapy appear consistently associated with CRCI in patients with breast cancer, primarily affecting memory, attention/concentration, executive functioning, and processing speed. Subjective cognitive concerns were often found weakly or not associated with neuropsychological test results, while overall CRCI seemed consistently associated with psychological distress, fatigue, sleep quality, and inflammatory and biological factors.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence suggests that CRCI is common after chemotherapy and endocrine therapy for breast cancer. However, heterogeneity in study designs and the scarcity of studies on more recent treatments such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, highlight the need for more systematic and harmonized studies, possibly taking into account the complex and multifactorial etiology of CRCI. This may provide valuable insights into CRCI's underlying mechanisms and potential new ways to treat it.

Morbidity and mortality among children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer over six decades: a Swedish population-based cohort study (the Rebuc study)

Background

Despite progress in managing cancer in children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYAs), persistent complications may impact their quality of life. This study covers the morbidity and mortality, among CAYAs, with the aim to investigate the influence of socioeconomic factors on outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective matched cohort study included the entire Swedish population of individuals under 25 with cancer 1958-2021. The population was identified from the Cancer Register, and controls were paired 1:5 based on age, sex, and residence. Multiple registers provided data on morbidity, mortality, and demographics.

Findings

This survey covering 63 years, identified 65,173 CAYAs and matched controls, a total of 378,108 individuals (74% females). CAYAs exhibited a 3.04-times higher risk for subsequent cancer (Odds ratio (OR) 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.92-3.17, p < 0.0001), a 1.23-times higher risk for cardiovascular disease (OR 95% CI 1.20-1.26, p < 0.0001), and a 1.41-times higher risk for external affliction (OR 95% CI 1.34-1.49, p < 0.0001). CAYAs had a higher mortality hazard, and after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, males, individuals born outside Europe, and those with greater sick-leave had a higher association with mortality, while education and marriage showed a beneficial association.

Interpretation

The Rebuc study, showed an increased risk for serious complications among young cancer patients in Sweden. Patient-specific variables, demographics, and socioeconomic factors influenced mortality. These results underscore the impact of cancer on the health and lifespan of young individuals and the necessity for further research to address socioeconomic disparities in cancer care.

Funding

Grants from the Medical Research Council of Southeast Sweden (FORSS), ALF Grants, Region Ostergotland, and The Swedish Childhood Cancer Fund.

Feasibility and potential effectiveness of nurse-led video-coaching interventions for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors: the REVIVER study

BACKGROUND

Childhood, adolescent, and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors, at risk for late effects, including cancer-related fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and psychosocial challenges, may benefit from interventions stimulating behaviour adjustments. Three nurse-led eHealth interventions (REVIVER) delivered via video calls and elaborating on person-centred care, cognitive behaviour therapy and/or motivational interviewing were developed. These interventions target: 1) fatigue management, 2) healthier lifestyle behaviours, and 3) self-efficacy and self-management. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and potential effectiveness of the REVIVER interventions for CAYA cancer survivors and healthcare professionals.

METHODS

In a single-group mixed methods design, CAYA cancer survivors aged 16-54, more than five years post-treatment, were enrolled. Feasibility, assessed via Bowen's outcomes for feasibility studies, included acceptability, practicality, integration and implementation, demand and adherence. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and a focus group interview with survivors and healthcare professionals supplemented the evaluation. Paired sample t-tests assessed changes in self-reported quality of life, fatigue, lifestyle, self-management, and self-efficacy at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1), and 6-month follow-up (T2).

RESULTS

The interventions and video consults were generally acceptable, practical, and successfully integrated and implemented. Success factors included the nurse consultant (i.e., communication, approach, and attitude) and the personalised approach. Barriers included sustainability concerns, technical issues, and short intervention duration. Regarding demand, 71.4%, 65.4%, and 100% of eligible CAYA cancer survivors engaged in the fatigue (N = 15), lifestyle (N = 17) and empowerment (N = 3) intervention, respectively, with 5, 5 and 2 participants interviewed, correspondingly. Low interest (demand) in the empowerment intervention (N = 3) and dropout rates of one-third for both fatigue and empowerment interventions were noted (adherence). Improvements in quality of life, fatigue (fatigue intervention), lifestyle (lifestyle intervention), self-efficacy, and self-management were evident among survivors who completed the fatigue and lifestyle interventions, with medium and large effect sizes observed immediately after the intervention and six months post-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates the feasibility of nurse-led video coaching (REVIVER interventions) despite lower demand for the empowerment intervention and lower adherence to the fatigue and empowerment interventions. The medium and high effect sizes found for those who completed the interventions hold potential clinical significance for future studies investigating the effectiveness of the REVIVER interventions.

Barriers and facilitators to implementation of the interoperable Survivorship Passport (SurPass) v2.0 in 6 European countries: a PanCareSurPass online survey study

PURPOSE

Long-term follow-up (LTFU) care for childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) is essential to improve and maintain their quality of life. The Survivorship Passport (SurPass) is a digital tool which can aid in the delivery of adequate LTFU care. During the European PanCareSurPass (PCSP) project, the SurPass v2.0 will be implemented and evaluated at six LTFU care clinics in Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Lithuania and Spain. We aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the SurPass v2.0 with regard to the care process as well as ethical, legal, social and economical aspects.

METHODS

An online, semi-structured survey was distributed to 75 stakeholders (LTFU care providers, LTFU care program managers and CCSs) affiliated with one of the six centres. Barriers and facilitators identified in four centres or more were defined as main contextual factors influencing implementation of SurPass v2.0.

RESULTS

Fifty-four barriers and 50 facilitators were identified. Among the main barriers were a lack of time and (financial) resources, gaps in knowledge concerning ethical and legal issues and a potential increase in health-related anxiety in CCSs upon receiving a SurPass. Main facilitators included institutions' access to electronic medical records, as well as previous experience with SurPass or similar tools.

CONCLUSIONS

We provided an overview of contextual factors that may influence SurPass implementation. Solutions should be found to overcome barriers and ensure effective implementation of SurPass v2.0 into routine clinical care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

These findings will be used to inform on an implementation strategy tailored for the six centres.

Promise and Perils of Precision Oncology for Patients With Pediatric and Young Adult Sarcomas

The completion of multiple national pediatric precision oncology platform trials and the incorporation of standardized molecular profiling into the diagnostic care of pediatric and young adult patients with sarcomas have proven the feasibility and potential of the approach. In this work, we explore the current state of the art of precision oncology for pediatric and young adults with sarcoma. We highlight important lessons learned and the challenges that should be addressed in the next generation of trials. The chapter outlines current efforts to improve standardization of molecular assays, harmonization of data collection, and novel molecular tools such as cell-free DNA analyses. Finally, we discuss the impacts and psychosocial outcomes experienced by patients and communication strategies for providers.

Doxorubicin Exposure and Breast Cancer Risk in Survivors of Adolescent and Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma

PURPOSE

Female Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors treated with chest radiotherapy (RT) at a young age have a strongly increased risk of breast cancer (BC). Studies in childhood cancer survivors have shown that doxorubicin exposure may also increase BC risk. Although doxorubicin is the cornerstone of HL chemotherapy, the association between doxorubicin and BC risk has not been examined in HL survivors treated at adult ages.

METHODS

We assessed BC risk in a cohort of 1,964 female 5-year HL survivors, treated at age 15-50 years in 20 Dutch hospitals between 1975 and 2008. We calculated standardized incidence ratios, absolute excess risks, and cumulative incidences. Doxorubicin exposure was analyzed using multivariable Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 21.6 years (IQR, 15.8-27.1 years), 252 women had developed invasive BC or ductal carcinoma in situ. The 30-year cumulative incidence was 20.8% (95% CI, 18.2 to 23.4). Survivors treated with a cumulative doxorubicin dose of >200 mg/m2 had a 1.5-fold increased BC risk (95% CI, 1.08 to 2.1), compared with survivors not treated with doxorubicin. BC risk increased 1.18-fold (95% CI, 1.05 to 1.32) per additional 100 mg/m2 doxorubicin (Ptrend = .004). The risk increase associated with doxorubicin (yes v no) was not modified by age at first treatment (hazard ratio [HR]age <21 years, 1.5 [95% CI, 0.9 to 2.6]; HRage ≥21 years, 1.3 [95% CI, 0.9 to 1.9) or chest RT (HRwithout mantle/axillary field RT, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.06 to 3.3]; HRwith mantle/axillary field RT, 1.2 [95% CI, 0.8 to 1.8]).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that treatment with doxorubicin is associated with increased BC risk in both adolescent and adult HL survivors. Our results have implications for BC surveillance guidelines for HL survivors and treatment strategies for patients with newly diagnosed HL.

Different subtypes of chronic fatigue in childhood cancer survivors: A DCCSS LATER study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the current study was to investigate whether subtypes of chronic fatigue (CF) can be identified in childhood cancer survivors (CCS), and if so, to determine the characteristics of participants with a specific subtype.

METHODS

Participants were included from the nationwide DCCSS LATER cohort. The Checklist Individual Strength (CIS) was completed to assess fatigue. Participants with CF (scored ≥35 on the fatigue severity subscale and indicated to suffer from fatigue for ≥6 months) were divided into subgroups using two-step cluster analysis based on the CIS concentration, motivation, and physical activity subscales. Differences between groups on demographics, psychosocial, lifestyle, and treatment-related variables were determined using ANOVA and chi-square analyses (univariable) and multinomial regression analysis (multivariable).

RESULTS

A total of 1910 participants participated in the current study (n = 450 with CF; n = 1460 without CF). Three CF subgroups were identified: Subgroup 1 (n = 133, 29% of participants) had CF with problems in physical activity; Subgroup 2 (n = 111, 25% of participants) had CF with difficulty concentrating; and Subgroup 3 (n = 206, 46% of participants) had multi-dimensional CF. Compared to Subgroup 1, Subgroup 2 more often reported sleep problems, limitations in social functioning, and less often have more than two comorbidities. Subgroup 3 more often reported depression, sleep problems, a lower self-esteem, and limitations in social functioning and a lower educational level compared to Subgroup 1.

CONCLUSION

Different subgroups of CCS with CF can be identified based on fatigue dimensions physical activity, motivation and concentration. Results suggest that different intervention strategies, tailored for each subgroup, might be beneficial.

Radiation Therapy Technology Advances and Mitigation of Subsequent Neoplasms in Childhood Cancer Survivors

PURPOSE

In this Pediatric Normal Tissue Effects in the Clinic (PENTEC) vision paper, challenges and opportunities in the assessment of subsequent neoplasms (SNs) from radiation therapy (RT) are presented and discussed in the context of technology advancement.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The paper discusses the current knowledge of SN risks associated with historic, contemporary, and future RT technologies. Opportunities for research and SN mitigation strategies in pediatric patients with cancer are reviewed.

RESULTS

Present experience with radiation carcinogenesis is from populations exposed during widely different scenarios. Knowledge gaps exist within clinical cohorts and follow-up; dose-response and volume effects; dose-rate and fractionation effects; radiation quality and proton/particle therapy; age considerations; susceptibility of specific tissues; and risks related to genetic predisposition. The biological mechanisms associated with local and patient-level risks are largely unknown.

CONCLUSIONS

Future cancer care is expected to involve several available RT technologies, necessitating evidence and strategies to assess the performance of competing treatments. It is essential to maximize the utilization of existing follow-up while planning for prospective data collection, including standardized registration of individual treatment information with linkage across patient databases.

Vaccination of Adults With Cancer: ASCO Guideline

PURPOSE

To guide the vaccination of adults with solid tumors or hematologic malignancies.

METHODS

A systematic literature review identified systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and nonrandomized studies on the efficacy and safety of vaccines used by adults with cancer or their household contacts. This review builds on a 2013 guideline by the Infectious Disease Society of America. PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched from January 1, 2013, to February 16, 2023. ASCO convened an Expert Panel to review the evidence and formulate recommendations.

RESULTS

A total of 102 publications were included in the systematic review: 24 systematic reviews, 14 RCTs, and 64 nonrandomized studies. The largest body of evidence addressed COVID-19 vaccines.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The goal of vaccination is to limit the severity of infection and prevent infection where feasible. Optimizing vaccination status should be considered a key element in the care of patients with cancer. This approach includes the documentation of vaccination status at the time of the first patient visit; timely provision of recommended vaccines; and appropriate revaccination after hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, or B-cell-depleting therapy. Active interaction and coordination among healthcare providers, including primary care practitioners, pharmacists, and nursing team members, are needed. Vaccination of household contacts will enhance protection for patients with cancer. Some vaccination and revaccination plans for patients with cancer may be affected by the underlying immune status and the anticancer therapy received. As a result, vaccine strategies may differ from the vaccine recommendations for the general healthy adult population vaccine.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/supportive-care-guidelines.

IT-Related Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of a New European eHealth Solution, the Digital Survivorship Passport (SurPass Version 2.0): Semistructured Digital Survey

BACKGROUND

To overcome knowledge gaps and optimize long-term follow-up (LTFU) care for childhood cancer survivors, the concept of the Survivorship Passport (SurPass) has been invented. Within the European PanCareSurPass project, the semiautomated and interoperable SurPass (version 2.0) will be optimized, implemented, and evaluated at 6 LTFU care centers representing 6 European countries and 3 distinct health system scenarios: (1) national electronic health information systems (EHISs) in Austria and Lithuania, (2) regional or local EHISs in Italy and Spain, and (3) cancer registries or hospital-based EHISs in Belgium and Germany.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify and describe barriers and facilitators for SurPass (version 2.0) implementation concerning semiautomation of data input, interoperability, data protection, privacy, and cybersecurity.

METHODS

IT specialists from the 6 LTFU care centers participated in a semistructured digital survey focusing on IT-related barriers and facilitators to SurPass (version 2.0) implementation. We used the fit-viability model to assess the compatibility and feasibility of integrating SurPass into existing EHISs.

RESULTS

In total, 13/20 (65%) invited IT specialists participated. The main barriers and facilitators in all 3 health system scenarios related to semiautomated data input and interoperability included unaligned EHIS infrastructure and the use of interoperability frameworks and international coding systems. The main barriers and facilitators related to data protection or privacy and cybersecurity included pseudonymization of personal health data and data retention. According to the fit-viability model, the first health system scenario provides the best fit for SurPass implementation, followed by the second and third scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides essential insights into the information and IT-related influencing factors that need to be considered when implementing the SurPass (version 2.0) in clinical practice. We recommend the adoption of Health Level Seven Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources and data security measures such as encryption, pseudonymization, and multifactor authentication to protect personal health data where applicable. In sum, this study offers practical insights into integrating digital health solutions into existing EHISs.

Unveiling the Role of Human Papillomavirus in Urogenital Carcinogenesis a Comprehensive Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV), an oncogenic DNA virus, is the most common sexually transmitted virus and significant public health concern globally. Despite the substantial prevalence of HPV infection among men, routine testing remains elusive due to the lack of approved HPV tests and the complexity of detection methods. Various studies have explored the link between HPV and genitourinary cancers, revealing different associations influenced by geographic variation, histological subtype and methodological differences. These findings underscore the importance of further research to elucidate the role of HPV in male urogenital cancers. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate relationship between HPV and male genitourinary cancers, shedding light on the virus's oncogenic mechanisms and its reported prevalence. A deeper understanding of HPV's implications for male health is essential for advancing public health initiatives and reducing the burden of urogenital cancers worldwide.

The cumulative burden of self-reported, clinically relevant outcomes in long-term childhood cancer survivors and implications for survivorship care: A DCCSS LATER study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate how cumulative burden of clinically relevant, self-reported outcomes in childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) compares to a sibling control group and to explore how the burden corresponds to levels of care proposed by existing risk stratifications.

METHODS

The authors invited 5925 5-year survivors from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS LATER) cohort and their 1066 siblings to complete a questionnaire on health outcomes. Health outcomes were validated by self-reported medication use or medical record review. Missing data on clinically relevant outcomes in CCSs for whom no questionnaire data were available were imputed with predictive mean matching. We calculated the mean cumulative count (MCC) for clinically relevant outcomes. Furthermore, we calculated 30-year MCC for groups of CCSs based on primary cancer diagnosis and treatment, ranked 30-year MCC, and compared the ranking to levels of care according to existing risk stratifications.

RESULTS

At median 18.5 years after 5-year survival, 46% of CCSs had at least one clinically relevant outcome. CCSs experienced 2.8 times more health conditions than siblings (30-year MCC = 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74-0.85 vs. 30-year MCC = 0.29; 95% CI, 0.25-0.34). CCSs' burden of clinically relevant outcomes consisted mainly of endocrine and vascular conditions and varied by primary cancer type. The ranking of the 30-year MCC often did not correspond with levels of care in existing risk stratifications.

CONCLUSIONS

CCSs experience a high cumulative burden of clinically relevant outcomes that was not completely reflected by current risk stratifications. Choices for survivorship care should extend beyond primary tumor and treatment parameters, and should consider also including CCSs' current morbidity.

Second malignant neoplasms within 5 years from first primary diagnosis in pediatric oncology patients in Canada: a population-based retrospective cohort study

Introduction

From the advancement of treatment of pediatric cancer diagnosis, the five-year survival rate has increased significantly. However, the adverse consequence of improved survival rate is the second malignant neoplasm. Although previous studies provided information on the incidence and risk of SMN in long term survivors of childhood cancer, there is still scarce information known for short term (< 5 years) prognosis. This study aims to assess the incidence, characteristics, management, and outcome of children who develop SMN malignancies within 5 years of diagnosis of their initial cancer.

Method

This is a retrospective cohort study of early Second Malignant Neoplasms (SMN) in pediatric oncology patients. The Cancer in Young People - Canada (CYP-C) national pediatric cancer registry was used and reviewed pediatric patients diagnosed with their first cancer from 2000-2015.

Results

A total of 20,272 pediatric patients with a diagnosis of a first malignancy were analyzed. Of them, 0.7% were diagnosed with a SMN within the first 5 years following their first cancer diagnosis. Development of a SMN impacted survival, shown by an inferior survival rate in the SMN cohort (79.1%) after three years compared to that of the non-SMN cohort (89.7%). Several possible risk factors have been identified in the study including the use of epipodophyllotoxins, exposure to radiation, and hematopoietic stem cell 169 transplant.

Discussion

This is the first national study assessing the incidence, 170 characteristics, risk factors and outcome of early SMN in Canadian children 171 from age 0-15 from 2000-2015.

Rituximab-combined anthracycline-free chemotherapy in newly diagnosed paediatric and adolescent patients with non-high-risk aggressive mature B cell lymphoma: protocol for a single-arm, open-label, multicentre, phase II study (the Japan Children's Cancer Group Multicentre Trial, JPLSG B-NHL-20)

INTRODUCTION

Children and adolescents with mature B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) are treated with short-intensive chemotherapy. The burden of short-term and long-term toxicity is highly relative to its high cure rate in good-risk patients. Although the addition of rituximab to standard lymphome Malin B (LMB) chemotherapy markedly prolongs event-free survival and overall survival in high-risk patients, the benefit of rituximab in good-risk patients remains to be elucidated. This clinical trial will examine whether the addition of rituximab eliminates anthracyclines in good-risk patients without compromising treatment outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will perform a single-arm, open-label, multicentre phase II study. Low-risk (stage I - completely resected, stage II abdominal) and intermediate-risk (stages I and II - incompletely resected; stage II - resected, other than abdominal; stage III with LDH <2× upper limit of normal) patients with newly diagnosed B-NHL are eligible. Low-risk patients receive two courses of R-COM1P (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, methotrexate, prednisolone and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone), and intermediate-risk patients receive COP (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisolone and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone) followed by two courses each of R-COM3P and R-CYM (rituximab, cytarabine, methotrexate and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone). The primary endpoint is a 3-year event-free survival rate in paediatric patients (<18 years) with intermediate-risk disease. 100 patients (10 low-risk and 90 intermediate-risk) will enrol within a 4-year enrolment period and the follow-up period will be 3 years. 108 institutions are participating as of 1 January 2024 (64 university hospitals, 29 general hospitals, 12 children's hospitals and three cancer centres).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This research was approved by the Certified Review Board at NHO Nagoya Medical Center (Nagoya, Japan) on 21 September 2021. Written informed consent is obtained from all patients and/or their guardians. The results of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

STUDY REGISTRATION

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs041210104.

Treatment-specific risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms in five-year survivors of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The introduction of rituximab significantly improved the prognosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), emphasizing the importance of evaluating the long-term consequences of exposure to radiotherapy, alkylating agents and anthracycline-containing (immuno)chemotherapy among DLBCL survivors.

METHODS

Long-term risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs) was examined in a multicenter cohort comprising 2373 5-year DLBCL survivors treated at ages 15-61 years in 1989-2012. Observed SMN numbers were compared with expected cancer incidence to estimate standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs/10 000 person-years). Treatment-specific risks were assessed using multivariable Cox regression.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 13.8 years, 321 survivors developed one or more SMNs (SIR 1.5, 95% CI 1.3-1.8, AER 51.8). SIRs remained increased for at least 20 years after first-line treatment (SIR ≥20-year follow-up 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.2, AER 81.8) and were highest among patients ≤40 years at first DLBCL treatment (SIR 2.7, 95% CI 2.0-3.5). Lung (SIR 2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.7, AER 13.4) and gastrointestinal cancers (SIR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2-2.0, AER 11.8) accounted for the largest excess risks. Treatment with >4500 mg/m2 cyclophosphamide/>300 mg/m2 doxorubicin versus ≤2250 mg/m2/≤150 mg/m2, respectively, was associated with increased solid SMN risk (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% CI 1.0-2.2). Survivors who received rituximab had a lower risk of subdiaphragmatic solid SMNs (hazard ratio 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-1.0) compared with survivors who did not receive rituximab.

CONCLUSION

Five-year DLBCL survivors have an increased risk of SMNs. Risks were higher for survivors ≤40 years at first treatment and survivors treated with >4500 mg/m2 cyclophosphamide/>300 mg/m2 doxorubicin, and may be lower for survivors treated in the rituximab era, emphasizing the need for studies with longer follow-up for rituximab-treated patients.

Late Complications in Long-Term Childhood Cancer Survivors: What the Oral Health Professional Needs to Know

With diagnostic and therapeutic advances, over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer become long-term survivors. As the number of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) continues to increase, dental practitioners become more likely to have CCS among their patients. CCS may develop late complications from damage caused by their cancer treatment to endocrine, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and other organ systems. These complications may surface decades after the completion of treatment. Adverse outcomes of childhood cancer treatment frequently involve oral and craniofacial structures including the dentition. Tooth development, salivary gland function, craniofacial growth, and temporomandibular joint function may be disturbed, increasing oral health risks in these individuals. Moreover, CCS are at risk of developing subsequent malignancies, which may manifest in or near the oral cavity. It is important that dental practitioners are aware of the childhood cancer history of their patients and have knowledge of potential late complications. Therefore, this narrative review aims to inform dental practitioners of late oral complications of cancer treatment modalities commonly used in pediatric oncology. Furthermore, selected common non-oral late sequelae of cancer therapy that could have an impact on oral health and on delivering dental care will be discussed.

Subsequent primary neoplasms after childhood cancer therapy - design and description of the German nested case-control study STATT-SCAR

BACKGROUND

Subsequent primary neoplasms (SPN) are among the most severe late effects and the second most frequent cause of death in childhood cancer patients. In this paper we introduce method and properties of the STATT-SCAR study (Second Tumor After Tumor Therapy, Second Cancer After Radiotherapy), which is a joint nested matched case-control study to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy (STATT) as well as radiotherapy (SCAR) on the risk of developing a SPN.

METHODS

Based on the cohort of the German childhood cancer registry (GCCR), we selected patients diagnosed with a first neoplasm before age 15 or younger between 1980 and 2014. We selected those with a SPN at least half a year after the first neoplasm, and matched up to four controls to each case. Therapy data were acquired from various sources, including clinical study centers and treating hospitals. To analyze the impact of radiotherapy, organ doses were estimated by using reconstructed treatment plans. The effect of chemotherapy was analyzed using substance groups summarized after isotoxic dose conversion.

RESULTS

1244 cases with a SPN were identified and matched with 4976 controls. Treatment data were acquired for 83% of all match groups (one case and at least one control). Based on preliminary analyses, 98% of all patients received chemotherapy and 54% of all patients were treated with radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our data, detailed analyses of dose response relationships and treatment element combinations are possible, leading to a deeper insight into SPN risks after cancer treatments.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study is registered at the German clinical trial register (DRKS) under number DRKS00017847 [45].

European recommendations for short-term surveillance of health problems in childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors from the end of treatment to 5 years after diagnosis: a PanCare guideline

PURPOSE

Childhood, adolescent and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors require ongoing surveillance for health problems from the end of cancer treatment throughout their lives. There is a lack of evidence-based guidelines on optimal surveillance strategies for the period from the end of treatment to 5 years after diagnosis. We aimed to address this gap by developing recommendations for short-term surveillance of health problems based on existing long-term follow-up (LTFU) care guidelines.

METHODS

The guideline working group, consisting of healthcare professionals, parents and survivor representatives from 10 countries, worked together to identify relevant health problems that may occur in survivors between the end of treatment and 5 years after diagnosis and to develop recommendations for short-term surveillance of health problems. The recommendations were drawn from existing LTFU guidelines and adapted where necessary based on clinical expertise.

RESULTS

The working group developed 44 recommendations for short-term surveillance of health problems, which were divided into four categories based on the level of surveillance required: awareness only (n = 11), awareness, history and/or physical examination without surveillance test (n = 15), awareness, history and/or physical examination with potential surveillance test (n = 1) and awareness, history and/or physical examination with surveillance test (n = 17).

CONCLUSION

The development of a guideline for short-term surveillance of health problems fills a critical gap in survivorship care for CAYA cancer survivors, providing much-needed support immediately after treatment up to 5 years after diagnosis.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

This guideline will support healthcare professionals to provide appropriate follow-up care and improve the quality of life of CAYA cancer survivors.

Chronic fatigue in childhood cancer survivors is associated with lifestyle and psychosocial factors; a DCCSS LATER study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine factors associated with chronic fatigue (CF) in childhood cancer survivors (CCS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Participants were included from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS) LATER cohort, a nationwide cohort of CCS (≥5 years after diagnosis) and siblings as controls. Fatigue severity was assessed with the 'fatigue severity subscale' of the Checklist Individual Strength ('CIS-fatigue'). CF was defined as scoring ≥35 on the 'CIS-fatigue' and having fatigue symptoms for ≥6 months. Twenty-four parameters were assessed, categorized into assumed fatigue triggering, maintaining and moderating factors. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to investigate the association of these factors with CF.

RESULTS

A total of 1927 CCS participated in the study (40.7% of invited cohort), of whom 23.6% reported CF (compared with 15.6% in sibling controls, P < 0.001). The following factors were associated with CF: obesity [versus healthy weight, odds ratio (OR) 1.93; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.30-2.87], moderate physical inactivity (versus physical active, OR 2.36; 95% CI 1.67-3.34), poor sleep (yes versus no, OR 2.03; 95% CI 1.54-2.68), (sub)clinical anxiety (yes versus no, OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.10-2.19), (sub)clinical depression (yes versus no, OR 2.07; 95% CI 1.20-3.59), pain (continuous, OR 1.49; 95% CI 1.33-1.66), self-esteem (continuous, OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.92-0.98), helplessness (continuous, OR 1.13; 95% CI 1.08-1.19), social functioning (continuous, OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.97-0.99) and female sex (versus male sex, OR 1.79; 95% CI 1.36-2.37).

CONCLUSION

CF is a prevalent symptom in CCS that is associated with several assumed maintaining factors, with lifestyle and psychosocial factors being the most prominent. These are modifiable factors and may therefore be beneficial to prevent or reduce CF in CCS.

BRAF V600E is associated with higher incidence of second cancers in adults with Langerhans cell histiocytosis

In this retrospective study, BRAF mutation status did not correlate with disease extent or (event-free) survival in 156 adults with Langerhans cell histiocytosis. BRAFV600E was associated with an increased incidence of second malignancies, often comprising hematological cancers, which may be clonally related.

Improving quality and quantity of life for childhood cancer survivors globally in the twenty-first century

The contributions of cooperative groups to performing large-cohort clinical trials and long-term survivorship studies have facilitated advances in treatment, supportive care and, ultimately, survival for patients with paediatric cancers. As a result, the number of childhood cancer survivors in the USA alone is expected to reach almost 580,000 by 2040. Despite these substantial improvements, childhood cancer survivors continue to have an elevated burden of chronic disease and an excess risk of early death compared with the general population and therefore constitute a large, medically vulnerable population for which delivery of high-quality, personalized care is much needed. Data from large survivorship cohorts have enabled the identification of compelling associations between paediatric cancers, cancer therapy and long-term health conditions. Effectively translating these findings into clinical care that improves the quality and quantity of life for survivors remains an important focus of ongoing research. Continued development of well-designed clinical studies incorporating dissemination and implementation strategies with input from patient advocates and other key stakeholders is crucial to overcoming these gaps. This Review highlights the global progress made and future efforts that will be needed to further increase the quality and quantity of life-years gained for childhood cancer survivors.

Human leucocyte antigen-matched related haematopoietic stem cell transplantation using low-dose cyclophosphamide, fludarabine and thymoglobulin in children with severe aplastic anaemia

When human leucocyte antigen-matched related donors are available, haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in children with severe aplastic anaemia (SAA) represents the standard of care. Cyclophosphamide (Cy) 200 mg/kg and anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) are frequently administered, but to-date, no standard conditioning regimen exists. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of a unified HSCT conditioning protocol consisting of low-dose Cy 80 mg/kg, fludarabine and ATG. Data were reviewed from children aged ≤14 years with either acquired SAA or non-Fanconi anaemia inherited bone marrow failure syndrome (IBMFS) between 2011 and 2022 at various Saudi institutions. Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis included mycophenolate mofetil and calcineurin inhibitors. HSCT was performed in 32 children (17 females and 15 males). Nine patients had deleterious mutations (two ERCC6L2, two ANKRD26, two TINF2, one LZTFL1, one RTEL1 and one DNAJC21). Four patients had short telomeres. All 32 patients engrafted successfully. At 3 years post-transplant, the event-free survival was 93% and overall survival was 95%. Two patients experienced secondary graft failure or myelodysplastic syndrome. A low probability of GVHD was observed (one acute GVHD II and one mild chronic GVHD). These data highlight how HSCT using low-dose Cy as part of a fludarabine-based regimen is safe and effective in SAA/non-Fanconi anaemia IBMFS.

Treating secondary malignant neoplasms: A burden of childhood cancer survivors

Each year approximately 35,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer in Europe. Five-year survival rates have improved and now reach 80% in most European countries, thanks to a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. To date, there are more than 44,000 Italians still living several years after being diagnosed with cancer in developmental age. The risk of premature morbidity and mortality for cancer survivors is well known and documented. Approximately 60% of survivors of cancer in childhood and adolescence have at least one chronic health condition in later life, and more than one in four develop severe or life-threatening disorders. Among the various long-term iatrogenic sequelae of cancer treatments, the most worrisome are second malignant neoplasms. We reported on our mono-institutional experiences of screening and treating secondary breast cancer, secondary thyroid cancer and secondary osteosarcoma. Recommendations on the surveillance needed for cancer survivors because of the risk of late effects of their disease or its treatment suggest that discussing the potential problems early on can be crucial to a patient's future health. These considerations and our consolidated experience strengthen our conviction that survivors of cancer in childhood and adolescence who develop second malignant neoplasms should be treated at highly-specialized centers. Multidisciplinary care requires close communications and high levels of up-to-date professional expertise. This challenging area of health care is also changing rapidly because cancer survivorship is a work in progress, but we cannot wait for definitive conclusions on many aspects because this will take decades, especially for pediatric patients.

Clinical Care for People Who Survive Childhood Cancer: A Review

Importance

An estimated 15 000 children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 years are diagnosed with cancer each year in the US, and more than 85% survive for at least 5 years. By 45 years of age, approximately 95% of people who survive childhood cancer will develop a significant health problem related to the childhood cancer diagnosis or its treatment.

Observations

Approximately 500 000 people currently alive in the US have survived childhood cancer. The most common severe or life-threatening chronic health problems related to childhood cancer or its treatment are endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism or growth hormone deficiency (44%), subsequent neoplasms such as breast cancer or thyroid cancer (7%), and cardiovascular disease such as cardiomyopathy or congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and cerebrovascular disease (5.3%). Medical conditions related to a cancer diagnosis during childhood or adolescence are most commonly caused by the radiation therapy and the chemotherapies used to treat cancer and may develop at varying lengths of time after exposure to these treatments. Individuals at highest risk for developing treatment-related health problems include patients with brain cancer treated with cranial irradiation (approximately 70% develop severe or life-threatening health problems) and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients (approximately 60% develop severe or life-threatening health problems). Individuals at the lowest risk for developing treatment-related health problems include those who survived solid tumors (such as Wilms tumor) treated with surgical resection alone or with minimal chemotherapy, for whom the prevalence of subsequent health problems is similar to people who did not have cancer during childhood or adolescence. People diagnosed with childhood cancer in the 1990s who survived for at least 5 years after the cancer diagnosis have a shorter lifespan (by about 9 years) vs children who were not diagnosed with cancer in the 1990s.

Conclusions and Relevance

Approximately 500 000 individuals currently alive in the US have survived childhood cancer. The most common adverse effects in individuals who survived childhood cancer are endocrine disorders, subsequent neoplasms, and cardiovascular disease. There is a need for clinicians and patients to have heightened awareness of these complications.

Polygenic Risk and Chemotherapy-Related Subsequent Malignancies in Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study Report

PURPOSE

Chemotherapeutic exposures are associated with subsequent malignant neoplasm (SMN) risk. The role of genetic susceptibility in chemotherapy-related SMNs should be defined as use of radiation therapy (RT) decreases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SMNs among long-term childhood cancer survivors of European (EUR; N = 9,895) and African (AFR; N = 718) genetic ancestry from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study were evaluated. An externally validated 179-variant polygenic risk score (PRS) associated with pleiotropic adult cancer risk from the UK Biobank Study (N > 400,000) was computed for each survivor. SMN cumulative incidence comparing top and bottom PRS quintiles was estimated, along with hazard ratios (HRs) from proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

A total of 1,594 survivors developed SMNs, with basal cell carcinomas (n = 822), breast cancers (n = 235), and thyroid cancers (n = 221) being the most frequent. Although SMN risk associations with the PRS were extremely modest in RT-exposed EUR survivors (HR, 1.22; P = .048; n = 4,630), the increase in 30-year SMN cumulative incidence and HRs comparing top and bottom PRS quintiles was statistically significant among nonirradiated EUR survivors (n = 4,322) treated with alkylating agents (17% v 6%; HR, 2.46; P < .01), anthracyclines (20% v 8%; HR, 2.86; P < .001), epipodophyllotoxins (23% v 1%; HR, 12.20; P < .001), or platinums (46% v 7%; HR, 8.58; P < .01). This PRS also significantly modified epipodophyllotoxin-related SMN risk among nonirradiated AFR survivors (n = 414; P < .01). Improvements in prediction attributable to the PRS were greatest for epipodophyllotoxin-exposed (AUC, 0.71 v 0.63) and platinum-exposed (AUC,0.68 v 0.58) survivors.

CONCLUSION

A pleiotropic cancer PRS has strong potential for improving SMN clinical risk stratification among nonirradiated survivors treated with specific chemotherapies. A polygenic risk screening approach may be a valuable complement to an early screening strategy on the basis of treatments and rare cancer-susceptibility mutations.

Long-Term Risk of Subsequent Malignant Neoplasms Among Childhood and Adolescent Lymphoma Survivors (1975-2013): A Population-Based Predictive Nomogram

BACKGROUND

Studies are needed to assess risk factors pertinent to the incidence of secondary malignancies among childhood and adolescent lymphoma survivors. We aimed to identify risk factors pertinent to the incidence of secondary malignancies and subsequently establish a clinically practical predictive nomogram.

METHODS

A total of 5561 patients who were diagnosed with primary lymphoma below the age of 20 years between 1975 and 2013 and survived for at least 5 years were identified. Standardized incidence ratio (SIR) and excess risk (ER) analysis were performed by sex, age, and year when primary lymphoma was diagnosed, sites and types of primary lymphoma, and therapy strategies. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify independent risk factors for adolescent and childhood lymphoma-related secondary malignancies. Based on 5 factors (age, time from lymphoma diagnosis, gender, lymphoma type, and therapy), a nomogram for predicting the risk of a secondary malignancy for patients with childhood and adolescent primary lymphoma was established.

RESULTS

Among 5561 lymphoma survivors, 424 developed a secondary malignancy. Females (SIR = 5.34, 95% CI, 4.73-5.99; ER = 50.58) exhibited a higher SIR and ER than males (SIR = 3.28, 95% CI, 2.76-3.87; ER = 15.53). Blacks were at a higher risk than Caucasians or others. Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma survivors exhibited typically high SIR (13.13, 95% CI, 6-24.92) and ER (54.79) among all lymphoma classifications. Lymphoma survivors who underwent radiotherapy, whether they received chemotherapy or not, had typically higher SIR and ER. Among all types of secondary malignancies, "bone and joint neoplasms" (SIR = 11.07, 95% CI, 5.52-19.81) and "soft tissue neoplasms" (SIR = 12.27, 95% CI, 7.59-18.76) presented significantly high SIR whereas "breast cancer" and "endocrine cancer" associated with higher ER. The median diagnosis age of secondary malignancies was 36 years old, and the median time interval between the diagnosis of two malignancies was 23 years. A nomogram was constructed to predict the risk of secondary malignancies in patients diagnosed with primary lymphoma before 20 years of age. After internal validation, the AUC and C-index of the nomogram are 0.804 and 0.804, respectively.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

The established nomogram provides a convenient and reliable tool for predicting the risk of a secondary malignancy among childhood and adolescent lymphoma survivors, concluding significant concern for lymphoma survivors with high-risk estimates.

Subsequent female breast cancer risk associated with anthracycline chemotherapy for childhood cancer

Anthracycline-based chemotherapy is associated with increased subsequent breast cancer (SBC) risk in female childhood cancer survivors, but the current evidence is insufficient to support early breast cancer screening recommendations for survivors treated with anthracyclines. In this study, we pooled individual patient data of 17,903 survivors from six well-established studies, of whom 782 (4.4%) developed a SBC, and analyzed dose-dependent effects of individual anthracycline agents on developing SBC and interactions with chest radiotherapy. A dose-dependent increased SBC risk was seen for doxorubicin (hazard ratio (HR) per 100 mg m-2: 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18-1.31), with more than twofold increased risk for survivors treated with ≥200 mg m-2 cumulative doxorubicin dose versus no doxorubicin (HR: 2.50 for 200-299 mg m-2, HR: 2.33 for 300-399 mg m-2 and HR: 2.78 for ≥400 mg m-2). For daunorubicin, the associations were not statistically significant. Epirubicin was associated with increased SBC risk (yes/no, HR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.59-6.63). For patients treated with or without chest irradiation, HRs per 100 mg m-2 of doxorubicin were 1.11 (95% CI: 1.02-1.21) and 1.26 (95% CI: 1.17-1.36), respectively. Our findings support that early initiation of SBC surveillance may be reasonable for survivors who received ≥200 mg m-2 cumulative doxorubicin dose and should be considered in SBC surveillance guidelines for survivors and future treatment protocols.

Reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors

Reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant can have a significant impact on cancer survivors' quality of life. Potential late effects include gonadal insufficiency, genital graft-versus-host disease, uterine injury, psychosexual dysfunction, and an increased risk of breast and cervical cancer in patients treated with total body irradiation. Despite guidelines, screening and treatment are not standardized among at-risk patients. Provider barriers include lack of knowledge of at-risk therapies and evidenced-based guidelines. Patient barriers include a reluctance to report symptoms and lack of awareness of treatment options. System barriers include inefficient implementation of screening tools and poor dissemination of guidelines to providers who serve as the medical home for survivors. This review guides the clinician in identifying and managing reproductive late effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplant to improve outcomes.

Risk of male breast cancer after Hodgkin lymphoma

Female survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) treated with chest radiotherapy have a strongly increased risk of breast cancer (BC), but the treatment-specific BC risk in male survivors of HL has not been evaluated. We assessed BC risk in a cohort of 3077 male survivors of 5-year HL treated at age ≤51 years in 20 Dutch hospitals between 1965 and 2013. We estimated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), absolute excess risks per 10 000 person-years, and cumulative BC incidences. After a 20-year median follow-up, we observed 8 cases of male with BC. Male survivors of HL experienced a 23-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.1-46.0) increased BC risk compared with the general population, representing 1.6 (95% CI, 0.7-3.3) excess BC incidences per 10 000 person-years. The 20- and 40-year cumulative BC incidences after HL treatment were 0.1% (95% CI, 0.02-0.3) and 0.7% (95% CI, 0.3-1.4), respectively. Treatment with chest radiotherapy without alkylating chemotherapy yielded a strongly increased SIR (20.7; 95% CI, 2.5-74.8), which was not significantly different for chest radiotherapy and alkylating chemotherapy (41.1; 95% CI, 13.4-96.0). Males treated with chest radiotherapy and anthracyclines had an SIR of 48.1 (95% CI, 13.1-123.1). Two patients died from BC (median follow-up, 4.7 years). To ensure early diagnosis and treatment, clinicians should be alert to BC symptoms in male survivors of HL.

Risk Factors for Primary Bone Cancer After Childhood Cancer: A PanCare Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivor Care and Follow-Up Studies Nested Case-Control Study

PURPOSE

Radiation to the bone and exposure to alkylating agents increases the risk of bone cancer among survivors of childhood cancer, but there is uncertainty regarding the risks of bone tissue radiation doses below 10 Gy and the dose-response relationship for specific types of chemotherapy.

METHODS

Twelve European countries contributed 228 cases and 228 matched controls to a nested case-control study within a cohort of 69,460 5-year survivors of childhood cancer. Odds ratios (ORs) of developing bone cancer for different levels of cumulative radiation exposure and cumulative doses of specific types of chemotherapy were calculated. Excess ORs were calculated to investigate the shape and extent of any dose-response relationship.

RESULTS

The OR associated with bone tissue exposed to 1-4 Gy was 4.8-fold (95% CI, 1.2 to 19.6) and to 5-9 Gy was 9.6-fold (95% CI, 2.4 to 37.4) compared with unexposed bone tissue. The OR increased linearly with increasing dose of radiation (Ptrend < .001) up to 78-fold (95% CI, 9.2 to 669.9) for doses of ≥40 Gy. For cumulative alkylating agent doses of 10,000-19,999 and ≥20,000 mg/m2, the radiation-adjusted ORs were 7.1 (95% CI, 2.2 to 22.8) and 8.3 (95% CI, 2.8 to 24.4), respectively, with independent contributions from each of procarbazine, ifosfamide, and cyclophosphamide. Other cytotoxics were not associated with bone cancer.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, we demonstrate-for the first time-that the risk of bone cancer is increased 5- to 10-fold after exposure of bone tissue to cumulative radiation doses of 1-9 Gy. Alkylating agents exceeding 10,000 mg/m2 increase the risk 7- to 8-fold, particularly following procarbazine, ifosfamide, and cyclophosphamide. These substantially elevated risks should be used to develop/update clinical follow-up guidelines and survivorship care plans.

A comprehensive review of 30 years of pediatric clinical trial radiotherapy dose constraints

BACKGROUND

Radiation therapy normal tissue dose constraints are critical when treating pediatric patients. However, there is limited evidence supporting proposed constraints, which has led to variations in constraints over the years. In this study, we identify these variations in dose constraints within pediatric trials both in the United States and in Europe used in the past 30 years.

PROCEDURE

All pediatric trials from the Children's Oncology Group website were queried from inception until January 2022 and a sampling of European studies was included. Dose constraints were identified and built into an organ-based interactive web application with filters to display data by organs at risk (OAR), protocol, start date, dose, volume, and fractionation scheme. Dose constraints were evaluated for consistency over time and compared between pediatric US and European trials RESULTS: One hundred five closed trials were included-93 US trials and 12 European trials. Thirty-eight separate OAR were found with high-dose constraint variability. Across all trials, nine organs had greater than 10 different constraints (median 16, range 11-26), including serial organs. When comparing US versus European dose tolerances, the United States constraints were higher for seven OAR, lower for one, and identical for five. No OAR had constraints change systematically over the last 30 years.

CONCLUSION

Review of pediatric dose-volume constraints in clinical trials showed substantial variability for all OAR. Continued efforts focused on standardization of OAR dose constraints and risk profiles are essential to increase consistency of protocol outcomes and ultimately to reduce radiation toxicities in the pediatric population.

Germline TP53 pathogenic variants and breast cancer: A narrative review

Approximately 10% of breast cancers are associated with the inheritance of a pathogenic variant (PV) in one of the breast cancer susceptibility genes. Multiple breast cancer predisposing genes, including TP53, are responsible for the increased breast cancer risk. Tumor protein-53 (TP53) germline PVs are associated with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare autosomal dominant inherited cancer predisposition syndrome associated with early-onset pediatric and multiple primary cancers such as soft tissue and bone sarcomas, breast cancer, brain tumors, adrenocortical carcinomas and leukemias. Women harboring a TP53 PV carry a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer of 80-90%. The aim of the present narrative review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the criteria for offering TP53 testing, prevalence of TP53 carriers among patients with breast cancer, and what is known about its prognostic and therapeutic implications. A summary of the current indications of secondary cancer surveillance and survivorship issues are also provided. Finally, the spectrum of TP53 alteration and testing is discussed. The optimal strategies for the treatment of breast cancer in patients harboring TP53 PVs poses certain challenges. Current guidelines favor the option of performing mastectomy rather than lumpectomy to avoid adjuvant radiotherapy and subsequent risk of radiation-induced second primary malignancies, with careful consideration of radiation when indicated post-mastectomy. Some studies suggest that patients with breast cancer and germline TP53 PV might have worse survival outcomes compared to patients with breast cancer and wild type germline TP53 status. Annual breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and whole-body MRI are recommended as secondary prevention.

Comparison of outcomes between Hodgkin's lymphoma patients treated in and outside clinical trials: A study based on the EORTC-Dutch late effects cohort-linked data

Studies have shown higher survival rates for patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) treated within clinical trials compared to patients treated outside clinical trials. However, endpoints are often limited to overall survival (OS). In this retrospective cohort study, we investigated the effect of trial participation on OS, the incidence of relapse, second cancer, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study population consisted of patients with HL, aged between 14 and 51 years at diagnosis, who started their treatment between 1962 and 2002 at three Dutch cancer centres. Patients were either included in the EORTC Lymphoma Group trials (H1-H9) or treated according to standard guidelines at the time. After adjusting for differences in baseline characteristics, trial participation was associated with longer OS (median OS: 29.4 years [95%CI: 27.0-31.6] for treatment inside trials versus 27.4 years [95%CI: 26.0-28.5] for treatment outside trials, p = .046), a lower incidence of relapse (HR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.63-0.98, p = .036) and a higher incidence of CVD (HR = 1.49, 95%CI: 1.23-1.79, p < .001). The trial effect for CVD was present only for patients treated before 1983. No evidence of differences in the incidence of second cancer was found. Consequently, essential results from clinical trials should be implemented into standard practice without undue delay.

Health Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness of Children's Oncology Group Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines for Chest-Irradiated Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of the Children's Oncology Group Guideline recommendation for breast cancer (BC) screening using mammography (MAM) and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in female chest-irradiated childhood Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), increasingly replacing MAM in practice, was also examined.

METHODS

Life years (LYs), quality-adjusted LYs (QALYs), BC mortality, health care costs, and false-positive screen frequencies of undergoing annual MAM, DBT, MRI, MAM + MRI, and DBT + MRI from age 25 to 74 years were estimated by microsimulation. BC risks and non-BC mortality were estimated from female 5-year survivors of HL in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study and the US population. Test performance of MAM and MRI was synthesized from HL studies, and that of DBT from the general population. Costs (2017 US dollars [USD]) and utility weights were obtained from the medical literature. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated.

RESULTS

With 100% screening adherence, annual BC screening extended LYs by 0.34-0.46 years over no screening. If the willingness-to-pay threshold to gain a quality-adjusted LY was ICER < $100,000 USD, annual MAM at age 25-74 years was the only cost-effective strategy. When nonadherence was taken into consideration, only annual MAM at age 30-74 years (ICER = $56,972 USD) was cost-effective. Supplementing annual MAM with MRI costing $545 USD was not cost-effective under either adherence condition. If MRI costs were reduced to $300 USD, adding MRI to annual MAM at age 30-74 years could become more cost-effective, particularly in the reduced adherence condition (ICER = $133,682 USD).

CONCLUSION

Annual BC screening using MAM at age 30-74 years is effective and cost-effective in female chest-irradiated HL survivors. Although annual adjunct MRI is not cost-effective at $545 USD cost, it could become cost-effective as MRI cost is reduced, a plausible scenario with the emergent use of abbreviated MRI.

Adverse late health outcomes among children treated with 3D radiotherapy techniques: Study design of the Dutch pediatric 3D-RT study

BACKGROUND

Adverse late health outcomes after multimodal treatment for pediatric cancer are diverse and of prime interest. Currently available evidence and survivorship care guidelines are largely based on studies addressing side-effects of two dimensional planned radiotherapy.

AIMS

The Dutch pediatric 3D-planned radiotherapy (3D-RT) study aims to gain insight in the long-term health outcomes among children who had radiotherapy in the 3D era. Here, we describe the study design, data-collection methods, and baseline cohort characteristics.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The 3D-RT study represents an expansion of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor study (DCCSS) LATER cohort, including pediatric cancer patients diagnosed during 2000-2012, who survived at least 5 years after initial diagnosis and 2 years post external beam radiotherapy. Individual cancer treatment parameters were obtained from medical files. A national infrastructure for uniform collection and archival of digital radiotherapy files (Computed Tomography [CT]-scans, delineations, plan, and dose files) was established. Health outcome information, including subsequent tumors, originated from medical records at the LATER outpatient clinics, and national registry-linkage. With a median follow-up of 10.9 (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.9-14.3) years after childhood cancer diagnosis, 711 eligible survivors were identified. The most common cancer types were Hodgkin lymphoma, medulloblastoma, and nephroblastoma. Most survivors received radiotherapy directed to the head/cranium only, the craniospinal axis, or the abdominopelvic region.

CONCLUSION

The 3D-RT study will provide knowledge on the risk of adverse late health outcomes and radiation-associated dose-effect relationships. This information is valuable to guide follow-up care of childhood cancer survivors and to refine future treatment protocols.

Risk of subsequent primary lymphoma in a cohort of 69,460 five-year survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer in Europe: The PanCareSurFup study

BACKGROUND

Survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) are at risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) after treatment; however, the risks of developing subsequent primary lymphomas (SPLs), including HL and NHL, after different types of childhood cancer are unknown. The authors quantified the risk of SPLs using the largest cohort of childhood cancer survivors worldwide.

METHODS

The Pan-European Network for Care of Survivors After Childhood and Adolescent Cancer (PanCare) Survivor Care and Follow-Up Studies (PanCareSurFup) cohort includes 69,460 five-year survivors of childhood cancer, diagnosed during 1940 through 2008, from 12 European countries. Risks of SPLs were quantified by standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and relative risks (RRs) using multivariable Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 140 SPLs, including 104 NHLs and 36 HLs, were identified. Survivors were at 60% increased risk of an SPL compared with the general population (SIR, 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4-1.9). Survivors were twice as likely to develop NHL (SIR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.9-2.8), with the greatest risks among survivors of HL (SIR, 7.1; 95% CI, 5.1-10.0), Wilms tumor (SIR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.7-5.7), leukemia (SIR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.8-4.4), and bone sarcoma (SIR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.4-5.4). Treatment with chemotherapy for any cancer doubled the RR of NHL (RR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.2-3.9), but treatment with radiotherapy did not (RR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.7-2.0). Survivors were at similar risk of developing a subsequent HL as the general population (SIR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.8-1.5).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to HL, the authors show here for the first time that survivors of Wilms tumor, leukemia, and bone sarcoma are at risk of NHL. Survivors and health care professionals should be aware of the risk of NHL in these survivors and in any survivors treated with chemotherapy.

A Pediatric Case of Treatment-related Myelodysplastic Syndrome While on Therapy for Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

BACKGROUND

Treatment-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) is a rare late effect of cancer therapy. After alkylating agents, this typically occurs years after completion of therapy. Treatment of t-MDS in pediatrics is an allogeneic stem cell transplant, however, the prognosis remains poor.

OBSERVATIONS

This case demonstrates t-MDS developing in a patient receiving treatment for pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia. This patient was treated with a combination of hematopoietic stem cell transplant and hypomethylating agents.

CONCLUSIONS

These agents should be considered for use in patients with t-MDS, before transplant to limit additional chemotherapy and as maintenance therapy post-transplant to reduce the risk of relapse.

Secondary osteosarcoma: a challenge indeed

BACKGROUND

The risk of survivors developing a secondary bone sarcoma after being treated for pediatric cancers is well established. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with secondary osteosarcoma (SOS).

METHODS

The study concerns survivors of childhood and adolescence primary neoplasms (PN) treated with chemotherapy, with or without radiotherapy and surgery, subsequently diagnosed with SOS.

RESULTS

We identified 26 patients (13 females, 13 males) who developed SOS a median 7.3 years after being diagnosed with a PN (5/7 of these patients tested for Li-Fraumeni and found positive for the syndrome). The sample's median age was 8.0 and 15.0 years when their PN and SOS were diagnosed, respectively. To treat their PN, 24 out of 26 patients had been given radiotherapy, and 19 had received chemotherapy including doxorubicin. A considerable number of SOS occurred at unfavorable sites (nine hip bone, six skull). All but one patient received chemotherapy with tailored schedules, omitting doxorubicin in 19 cases. Eighteen of the 26 patients underwent surgery. The 5- and 10-year overall survival and probabilities after the diagnosis of SOS (95% confidence interval) were 50% (32.7-76.5%) and 38.9% (22.4-67.4%); 5- and 10-year progression-free survival was 47% (29.9-73.7%) and 35.2% (19.3-64.4%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The survival rates after SOS are lower than in patients with primary osteosarcoma, but not negligible. It is therefore mandatory to discuss the best choice of treatment for such patients at a referral center, in terms of their chances of cure and quality of life.

Questionnaire‐ and linkage‐based outcomes in Dutch childhood cancer survivors: Methodology of the DCCSS LATER study part 1

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for developing long-term adverse health outcomes. To identify the risk of and risk factors for specific health outcomes, well-established cohorts are needed with detailed information on childhood cancer diagnosis, treatment, and health outcomes. We describe the design, methodology, characteristics, and data availability of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study LATER cohort (1963-2001) part 1; questionnaire and linkage studies.

METHODS

The LATER cohort includes 5-year childhood cancer survivors, diagnosed in the period 1963-2001, and before the age of 18 in any of the seven former pediatric oncology centers in the Netherlands. Information on health outcomes from survivors and invited siblings of survivors was collected by questionnaires and linkages to medical registries.

RESULTS

In total, 6165 survivors were included in the LATER cohort. Extensive data on diagnosis and treatment have been collected. Information on a variety of health outcomes has been ascertained by the LATER questionnaire study and linkages with several registries for subsequent tumors, health care use, and hospitalizations.

CONCLUSION

Research with data of the LATER cohort will provide new insights into risks of and risk factors for long-term health outcomes. This can enhance risk stratification for childhood cancer survivors and inform surveillance guidelines and development of interventions to prevent (the impact of) long-term adverse health outcomes. The data collected will be a solid baseline foundation for future follow-up studies.

The forgotten survivor: A comprehensive review on Non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivorship

The number of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) survivors is increasing. With the advancement of NHL therapies, it is crucial to focus on the challenges these survivors may face. Three main categories are to be considered in NHL survivorship, including quality of life and uncertainty about the future, possible physical health complications (including cardiovascular disease, infertility, and subsequent neoplasms), and the impact of novel NHL treatments and their potential complications. The latter includes CAR T-cell therapy, monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In this report, we aim to shed the light on these aspects and to discuss survivorship care plan for NHL.

Secondary Malignancies after Ewing Sarcoma-Epidemiological and Clinical Analysis of an International Trial Registry

Ewing sarcoma (EwS) represents highly aggressive bone and soft tissue tumors that require intensive treatment by multi-chemotherapy, surgery and/or radiotherapy. While therapeutic regimens have increased survival rates, EwS survivors face long-term sequelae that include secondary malignant neoplasms (SMNs). Consequently, more knowledge about EwS patients who develop SMNs is needed to identify high-risk patients and adjust follow-up strategies. We retrospectively analyzed data from 4518 EwS patients treated in five consecutive EwS trials from the Cooperative Ewing Sarcoma Study (CESS) group. Ninety-six patients developed SMNs after primary EwS, including 53 (55.2%) with solid tumors. The latency period between EwS and the first SMN was significantly longer for the development of solid SMNs (median: 8.4 years) than for hematologic SMNs (median: 2.4 years) (p < 0.001). The cumulative incidence (CI) of SMNs in general increased over time from 0.04 at 10 years to 0.14 at 30 years; notably, the specific CI for hematologic SMNs remained stable over the different decades, whereas for solid SMNs it gradually increased over time and was higher for metastatic patients than in localized EwS patients (20 years: 0.14 vs. 0.06; p < 0.01). The clinical characteristics of primary EwS did not differ between patients with or without SMNs. All EwS patients received multi-chemotherapy with adjuvant radiotherapy in 77 of 96 (80.2%) patients, and the use of radiation doses ≥ 60 Gy correlated with the occurrence of SMNs. The survival rate after SMNs was 0.49, with a significantly better outcome for solid SMNs compared with hematologic SMNs (3 years: 0.70 vs. 0.24, respectively; p < 0.001). The occurrence of SMNs after EwS remains a rare event but requires a structured follow-up system because it is associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Cohort profile: Risk and risk factors for female breast cancer after treatment for childhood and adolescent cancer: an internationally pooled cohort

PURPOSE

The International Consortium for Pooled Studies on Subsequent Malignancies after Childhood and Adolescent Cancer was established in 2018 to address gaps in knowledge of risk and risk factors for breast cancer subsequent to childhood/adolescent cancer by pooling individual patient data from seven cohorts. Initially, the pooled cohort will focus on three clinically relevant questions regarding treatment-related subsequent breast cancer risk in female survivors, which are the risk related to low-dose radiotherapy exposure to the chest, specific chemotherapy agents and attained age.

PARTICIPANTS

The consortium database includes pooled data on 21 892 female survivors from seven cohorts in North America and Europe with a primary cancer diagnosis at <21 years of age, and survival ≥5 years from diagnosis.

FINDINGS TO DATE

This is a newly established pooled study. The cohort profile summarised the data collected from each included cohort, including childhood cancer diagnosis information and treatment details (ie, radiotherapy fields and cumulative doses, and chemotherapy agents and cumulative doses for each agent). Included cohorts' follow-up started 1951-1981 and ended 2013-2021, respectively, for a median follow-up duration of 24.3 (IQR 18.0-32.8) years since primary cancer diagnosis. The median age at primary cancer diagnosis was 5.4 (IQR 2.5-11.9) years. And the median attained age at last follow-up was 32.2 (IQR 24.0-40.4) years. In all, 4240 (19.4%) survivors were treated with radiotherapy to the chest and 9308 (42.5%) with anthracyclines. At the end of the follow-up, 835 females developed a first subsequent breast cancer, including 635 invasive breast cancer only, 184 carcinomas in situ only (172 ductal carcinomas in situ and 12 lobular carcinomas in situ), and 16 with both an invasive and in situ diagnosis at the same moment. The cumulative incidences of subsequent breast cancer (both invasive and in situ) 25 and 35 years after primary cancer diagnosis were 2.2% and 6.2%, respectively.

FUTURE PLANS

The consortium is intended to serve as a model and robust source of childhood/adolescent cancer survivor data for elucidating other knowledge gaps on subsequent breast cancer risk, and risk of other subsequent malignancies (including data on males) in the future.

Association of Changes in Cancer Therapy Over 3 Decades With Risk of Subsequent Breast Cancer Among Female Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS)

Importance

Breast cancer is the most common invasive subsequent malignant disease in childhood cancer survivors, though limited data exist on changes in breast cancer rates as primary cancer treatments have evolved.

Objective

To quantify the association between temporal changes in cancer treatment over 3 decades and subsequent breast cancer risk.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study of 5-year cancer survivors diagnosed when younger than 21 years between 1970 and 1999, with follow-up through December 5, 2020.

Exposures

Radiation and chemotherapy dose changes over time.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Breast cancer cumulative incidence rates and age-specific standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) compared across treatment decades (1970-1999). Piecewise exponential models estimated invasive breast cancer and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) risk and associations with treatment exposures, adjusted for age at childhood cancer diagnosis and attained age.

Results

Among 11 550 female survivors (median age, 34.2 years; range 5.6-66.8 years), 489 developed 583 breast cancers: 427 invasive, 156 DCIS. Cumulative incidence was 8.1% (95% CI, 7.3%-9.0%) by age 45 years. An increased breast cancer risk (SIR, 6.6; 95% CI, 6.1-7.2) was observed for survivors compared with the age-sex-calendar-year-matched general population. Changes in therapy by decade included reduced rates of chest (34% in the 1970s, 22% in the 1980s, and 17% in the 1990s) and pelvic radiotherapy (26%, 17%, and 13% respectively) and increased rates of anthracycline chemotherapy exposures (30%, 51%, and 64%, respectively). Adjusting for age and age at diagnosis, the invasive breast cancer rate decreased 18% every 5 years of primary cancer diagnosis era (rate ratio [RR], 0.82; 95% CI, 0.74-0.90). When accounting for chest radiotherapy exposure, the decline attenuated to an 11% decrease every 5 years (RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.81-0.99). When additionally adjusted for anthracycline dose and pelvic radiotherapy, the decline every 5 years increased to 14% (RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.77-0.96). Although SIRs of DCIS generally increased over time, there were no statistically significant changes in incidence.

Conclusions and Relevance

Invasive breast cancer rates in childhood cancer survivors have declined with time, especially in those younger than 40 years. This appears largely associated with the reduced use of chest radiation therapy, but was tempered by concurrent changes in other therapies.

Feasibility of a registry for standardized assessment of long-term and late-onset health events in survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer

Childhood and adolescent cancer survivors are at risk for chronic medical conditions. Longitudinal studies help to understand their development and course. We hypothesize that collecting follow-up data according to the modified CTCAE criteria and embedded in regular care, is feasible and results in a rich database. We recruited 50 Swiss survivors treated at our institution between 1992 and 2015, who completed their treatment and are still alive. Information on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and medical conditions from follow-up visits, graded according to the modified CTCAE criteria, were added in the database. We described the cohort, assessed the prevalence of medical conditions at the most recent visits and the time needed for data entry. Survivors had a median age of 10 years at diagnosis with 16 years of follow-up. 94% of survivors suffered from at least one medical condition. We registered 25 grade 3 or 4 conditions in 18 survivors. The time needed for data entry at enrollment was < 60 min in most survivors and much less for follow-up visits. Standardized assessment of medical conditions is feasible during regular clinical care. The database provides longitudinal real-time data to be used for clinical care, survivor education and research.