After undergoing cancer treatment, many children later in life suffer from lung damage. How can such health consequences of cancer therapy be detected in time? For the first time, researchers from multiple university hospitals aim to monitor the lung function of children following a new cancer diagnosis to determine the best method and optimal timeframe.
Today, many children diagnosed with cancer can be cured. However, the medications required for treatment often come with side effects, potentially damaging various organs, including the lungs. Studies indicate that a significant number of young cancer survivors develop lung damage over their lifetime. However, it remains unclear which testing method is best suited to detect early signs of lung impairment.
"We plan to conduct various lung function tests on children newly diagnosed with cancer over approximately two years," explains Jakob Usemann, a pediatrician at the University Children's Hospital Zurich and Basel. He leads this research project, supported by Cancer Research Switzerland. His project includes using a targeted lung function test. "This allows us to assess gas exchange and gas distribution in the smallest airways."
But when should these tests be performed after the start of cancer treatment to detect the first signs of lung damage? This question remains unanswered, as most children initially experience no noticeable limitations. However, in adulthood, restricted airflow or reduced lung volume can lead to shortness of breath and quicker fatigue. To detect such damage as early as possible—before symptoms appear—Dr. Usemann and his team will also examine the children's lungs using radiation-free imaging.
The study is being conducted at several major university hospitals in Switzerland, bringing together expertise from oncology, radiology, and pulmonology. Research leader Jakob Usemann emphasizes: "What makes this study unique is that we investigate the development of potential lung damage during cancer therapy using various testing methods." This could improve the long-term follow-up care for children with cancer. "Our goal is to enhance the long-term health and quality of life of children and adolescents after cancer treatment."
