News & Events
Voices of Hodgkin’s Blog
Voices of Hodgkin’s Blog
On Accelerated Aging—A Phenomenon in Survivors of Childhood Cancer
JAMA Network –

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.

Menopausal cancer survivors offered HRT under new guidance
The Times –

Great news for cancer survivors experiencing menopausal symptoms: recent updates in medical guidelines now consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a potential treatment option.

American Cancer Society’s 2025 Annual Report
American Cancer Society –

Here are the results of ACS’s yearly study looking at cancer statistics in the US. There are some fascinating findings in the report – some positive trends and others that are alarming.

Attributable Risk and Consequences of Bone Mineral Density Deficits in Childhood Cancer Survivors
JAMA Network –

Here are the results of a fascinating study on the risk of bone density loss in adult survivors of childhood cancer. This research looked at more than 3900 survivors from the St. Jude Lifetime cohort. Not surprisingly, the study showed that a significant portion of these survivors had significant bone loss decades after their treatment ended. Increased doses of radiation led to increased risks, though the researchers found that other comorbid conditions like sedentary behavior and smoking were factors that led to loss of bone density.

Experts Forecast Cancer Research and Treatment Advances in 2025
American Association for Cancer Research –

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) presents exciting advancements in cancer research that are on the horizon for 2025.

The Battle Over What To Tell Americans About Drinking
New York Times –

Officials in other countries are warning about the health hazards of alcohol in any amount. Americans are still told that moderate drinking is safe. What gives?

Coffee, Tea, May Reduce Risk Of Head And Neck Cancers
Healio –

Researchers have found a potential link to the consumption of coffee and tea to the reduced risk of head and neck cancers. The “how’s and why’s” are not yet clear, but we find this to be a very interesting discovery, especially as Hodgkin’s survivors may be at risk for cancers of the neck (esophageal) due to earlier radiation treatments.

The Science of Bias: How Tribalism Undermines Our Health
Irish Medical Times –

This article is a powerful commentary on the dangers of “tribal thinking” – the tendency to surround ourselves with others who mirror our own opinions, inadvertently creating a vacuum of objective thinking. As Sheilagh points out, this can be especially dangerous when it comes to making decisions about our health. (If prompted, click “Yes” for medical professional.)

Patient-Centered Care Must Account For Uncertainty, Anxiety, During Active Surveillance
Healio –

“Active Surveillance” is defined as “a way to monitor cancer without immediately treating it, with the goal of delaying treatment until it’s necessary.” It is generally used to monitor low-risk cancers. Patients who are undergoing active surveillance may have regular tests and exams, such as bloodwork, X-rays or MRI’s, and even biopsies. It sounds a lot like what survivors of Hodgkin’s who are at risk for late effects are going through! While this article does not address late effects, it does call attention to the uncertainty and anxiety that many people experience when being watched closely – even if it’s with the intention to prevent a cancer diagnosis.

Study finds bone density loss associated with levothyroxine
News Medical –

Many Hodgkin’s survivors rely on levothyroxine (or name brand Synthroid) after radiation-induced thyroid damage—but a new study highlights a hidden risk.