Pediatric Cancer Survivorship Transition

Children and adults with the same types of cancer can have very different experiences. While nearly 80% of childhood cancer patients survive to adulthood, they often have long-term side effects from their treatments.

The University of Kansas Cancer Center survivorship transition is one of the few adult-based programs in the nation. We partner with Children’s Mercy Hospital, Masonic Cancer Alliance and the University of Kansas Medical Center to help adolescent cancer patients transition to an adult setting. We provide lifelong care for cancer patients 18 and older.

You’ll receive comprehensive medical and emotional care from a multidisciplinary team of experts who specialize in the effects of childhood cancer treatment that may include:

• Growth and development issues
• Secondary cancers
• Infertility
• Heart disease and endocrine conditions
• Weakened immune systems and genetic issues
• Emotional issues that may arise after cancer treatment

Transition care team members include:

• A doctor specializing in internal medicine and pediatrics
• An experienced pediatric hematology/oncology nurse navigator
• A social worker
• An experienced registered nurse

Your team works with you and your primary care physician. They will review your cancer treatments and possible long-term side effects. To help minimize the risk of future complications you’ll receive:

• Personalized care plan
• Psycho-social needs assessment
• Necessary labs and testing
• Referrals to specialists
• Follow-up guidelines based on your specific diagnosis and treatment
• Education to help you maintain and improve your health
• Information for your primary care physician about your care needs to ensure you have the necessary screenings

After your visit, you will receive a summary of recommendations to guide you in making healthy choices and improving your quality of life. This may include periodic tests and screenings that are recommended based on your particular cancer diagnosis and treatment regimen. You may also elect to have your primary care provided by a survivorship transition physician, who provides your survivorship care. About 60% of patients choose this option.

Recognized for quality

The University of Kansas Cancer Center is among a select few in the country, and the region’s only cancer center to achieve National Cancer Institute comprehensive designation. U.S. News & World Report ranks us among the top cancer care programs in the nation.