Addressing modifiable health behaviors in survivors of childhood cancer (AMBER)

The aim of this research is to identify modifiable health behaviours associated with the sequelae of cancer and cancer treatment. Most (87%) young people diagnosed with cancer survive, but four out of every five will develop at least one chronic health problem as a result of cancer and its treatment. These problems will likely persist for the rest of their lives and can prevent a young person reaching their full life potential.
Previous research has identified survivors of childhood cancer are more likely to be overweight, have poor nutrition, and exercise less compared to their counterparts without cancer. However, what is not well understood is the correlation between health behaviours and sequelae from cancer, known as ‘late effects’. To date, studies have focussed on the correlation between social demographics, BMI, diagnosis and treatment with health behaviour and cognitive and psychological factors. Understanding the association between health behaviours and late effects is important as health behaviours are modifiable variables and may offset the risks associated with cancer treatment.