Self-Reported Late Effects in Childhood Cancer Survivors in Kenya

Abstract

Background: The number of children surviving cancer in low and middle-income countries is expected to grow in the coming years. Knowledge about late effects and follow-up preferences in Kenya is lacking. Objectives: This study assessed self-reported late effects in Kenyan childhood cancer survivors and explored their preferences for survivorship care. Methods: Childhood cancer survivors, having successfully completed treatment for at least one year, were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires during clinic or home visits between 2021-2022. Medical records were reviewed for patient and treatment characteristics. Results: Twenty-six survivors of hematological malignancies (n=19, 73%), solid tumors (n=6, 23%), unknown tumor type (n=1, 4%), were interviewed. Most survivors (n=19, 73%) solely received chemotherapy and one survivor (4%) was irradiated. Median time since treatment completion was seven years. Fifteen survivors (58%) were previously lost to follow-up. Many survivors (n=19; 73%) self-reported late effects, predominantly pain and fatigue. Survivors (n=11, 42%) were limited in daily life activities: physical work (n=10, 38%), personal care (n=6, 23%), social activities (n=6, 23%). Eight survivors (31%) recalled being informed about late effects. Some survivors experienced a negative attitude toward cancer in regional hospitals. Follow-up duration was longer among informed patients (p=0.043). Survivors recommended education and survivor meetings and preferred their follow-up to be done at the referral center. Conclusions: Kenyan childhood cancer survivors self-report late effects, comparable in frequency, nature and severity to other survivors worldwide. Survivors and healthcare providers require education about the lifelong impact of childhood cancer and should have access to survivorship expertise to continue follow-up.