Maintaining a healthy lifestyle reduced mortality risk by 20% in long-term childhood cancer survivors, despite a four times higher risk for death than the general aging population. The primary causes of death among long-term survivors are similar to those among the general population but occur earlier.

Childhood cancer survivors often face long-term health complications due to the harsh treatments they receive. However, a recent study has found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve their overall health and reduce the risk of future chronic diseases. In this article, we will explore the findings of this study and highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle choices for childhood cancer survivors.


A healthy lifestyle could reduce the risk of mortality among long-term childhood cancer survivors, according to new research. In a retrospective study of 34,230 long-term childhood cancer survivors, those who maintained a healthy lifestyle with fewer modifiable heart disease risk factors had a 20% lower risk for mortality compared with their peers. The findings were published in The Lancet and detail that the specific primary causes of death among long-term survivors are similar to those among the general population, but occur earlier than they would in people without a cancer history. The main causes of death for both groups include cancer, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. The investigators noted that although younger cancer survivors carry a higher risk of mortality, most of the deaths can be attributed to chronic health conditions that occur at a younger age and at higher rates than in the general population. Emily S. Tonorezos, MD, MPH, director of the Office of Cancer Survivorship at the NCI, called the study’s findings a “roadmap for reducing late mortality among childhood cancer survivors”.


In conclusion, the findings of this research provide a strong case for the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surviving childhood cancer. From reducing the risk of secondary cancers to improving overall quality of life, the benefits of healthy habits cannot be overstated. At the same time, it is important to recognize the challenges that childhood cancer survivors may face when trying to make healthy choices, including physical and emotional barriers. Therefore, it is crucial that healthcare providers, families, and survivors work together to support and encourage healthy habits as part of long-term survivorship care. By doing so, we can help ensure the best possible outcomes for childhood cancer survivors and enable them to lead happy, healthy lives for years to come.