Unfortunately, some cancer survivors may have physical long-term
side effects such as limb amputation, scars, infertility, stunted
growth and development, intellectual difficulties and loss of
mobility.
The medical team manages the possibility of long-term side
effects and advises on important procedures that should take place
prior to the onset of treatment to reduce the after effects.
Sometimes it is possible that body organs may be damaged or a
secondary cancer may develop later in life. The medical team will
advise on a follow up programme to monitor late effects from cancer
treatment.
Long-term emotional side effects are part of the cancer
treatment and are often overlooked because of the need to treat the
physical problem.
Young people living with cancer, including patients and
siblings, may experience poor self esteem, post traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), depression, and difficulties adjusting to
adulthood. Such challenges may be more profound for cancer patients
that have physical disabilities or scars caused by cancer, and this
influences their quality of life. To read more about emotional side
effects of cancer see the 'beyond cancer' section.