Childhood cancer survivors require ongoing medical care, and parents play a crucial role in their well-being. On World Cancer Day, it is important to learn how to care for childhood cancer survivors beyond just doctor visits.
After completing treatment for childhood cancer, it is a joyful moment, but the fear of cancer returning may linger. Regular follow-up care will be necessary, and parents must be proactive in caring for their child. Understanding common types of childhood cancer, such as leukaemia and brain tumours, is essential.
Parents can expect routine check-ups, monitoring of treatment side effects, and discussions about their child’s overall health during follow-up visits. Late effects from cancer treatment, like organ damage and emotional challenges, may also need to be addressed.
In addition to meeting with doctors, parents can promote a healthy lifestyle, provide emotional support, collaborate with educators, monitor for late effects, encourage independence, connect with support groups, advocate for comprehensive care, address psychosocial well-being, and promote healthy habits in siblings.
Caring for childhood cancer survivors involves a holistic approach, and parents must actively participate to help their child lead a healthy and fulfilling life after cancer.