Accelerated aging is defined as a phenomenon where the biological (physiological) age exceeds chronological age. Clinically, accelerated aging phenotypes in cancer survivors include the premature development of subsequent neoplasms, frailty, chronic organ dysfunction, and cognitive impairment, all of which can impact long-term health and lifespan in survivors of cancer.

The results of this recent study show that only about one-third of childhood cancer survivors adhered to follow-up recommendations regarding late effects. This finding is indeed alarming but probably not surprising to many long-term survivors.

This article focuses on the emotional benefits of physical activity, particularly regarding depression – a common late effect of cancer survivorship. From the study: “Results showed statistically significant improvement in self-reported depression 1 month — and as long as 6 to 12 months — after completion of an aerobic physical activity intervention compared with usual care or no intervention.”

Here are two powerful video presentations of blood cancer survivors in a “now and then” format. They are the stories of “Sheriff Todd,” a multiple myeloma survivor, and “Laura,” a survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In the videos, we hear how both survivors dealt with their original diagnosis, the many ways in which it has affected their lives, and how they are managing today. Some of the comments and experiences will strongly resonate with long-term Hodgkin’s survivors, especially when they are talking about the emotional aspects of being a cancer survivor.

Unfortunately, many Hodgkin’s survivors have been diagnosed with breast cancer as a result of their earlier treatment. Arm symptoms, including pain, swelling, and limited movement, can be a nagging issue for these survivors, adding to what may be a long list of post-cancer ailments.

Sheilagh Foley is a long-term Hodgkin’s survivor, advocate, and author who has published numerous articles and blogs on survivorship. This article is a commentary on “Hypofractionation,” which is a radiation treatment schedule where the total dose of radiation is divided into large doses, allowing patients to complete their course of radiation faster than conventional treatment. In this article, Sheilagh raises key questions about the pros and cons of hypofractionation, including concerns about the possible long-term effects of this method.

This is a great piece on a subject that many of us know all too well – “medical gaslighting.” As the author states, it is “a term used to describe instances in which health care providers ignore or dismiss symptoms and discount patient experiences based on their own implicit bias or stereotypes.” Whether due to a lack of education on a certain subject, such as the late effects of cancer treatment, or an unwillingness to fully hear and understand a survivor’s symptoms,

Sheilagh Foley travelled to Boston to the Hodgkins International Symposium to learn more about how other patients recover from this ‘good’ cancer’, and finds solace and support from doctors and other patients dealing with the disease.

This article describes the results of recent study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine. It explores a fairly common side effect of some cancer treaments, “chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy,” or CIPN. More than just an annoying condition, CIPN can have a significant effect on the quality of life for survivors. The study presented here offers some exciting news about possible treatments for this condition.

Oncologists and researchers increasingly focus on how to predict, treat, and monitor for cardiovascular problems that develop before and after treatment.