Pediatric Cancer Survivor

Goals & Objectives:

Course Goals:

Pediatric cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among children in the United States (National Cancer Institute [NCI], 2021a). Occupation performance barriers may result from the onset of acute and late effects of the cancer disease process and its treatment. Pediatric cancer survivors (PCS) are faced with unique challenges and can be at higher risk for late effects due to factors including age, the type of cancer and its location, and the type of treatment (NCI, 2021a). With survival rates on the rise, a recent shift with a greater emphasis on quality of life has occurred over recent years in the medical management of cancer (Alfano et al., 2019; van Leeuwen et al., 2018). Attempts to reduce the use of toxic doses of cancer treatment have been made, resulting in a decrease in late effects in this vulnerable population; however, the risk for significant side effects including secondary cancers, hearing loss, the need for joint replacements, congestive heart failure, pain, fatigue, and emotional distress remain (Alfano et al., 2019; NCI, 2021a).  

Learning Outcomes:

Upon the completion of this course, the learner will be able to: 

• Recognize physical and psychosocial side effects of pediatric cancer and its treatment across the continuum of cancer care;   
  
• Identify occupational barriers for pediatric cancer survivors as they transition along the  continuum of cancer care;  
  
• Describe the occupational therapy process for evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches for pediatric cancer survivors; and 
  
• Apply current research to safely navigate case scenarios for pediatric cancer survivors.