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HEROS Frequently Asked Questions

Why a Specialty Clinic for Childhood Cancer Survivors?

Curing childhood cancers has become one of the greatest success stories of modern medicine. Today, almost 80 percent of all pediatric cancer patients live beyond the five-year survivor milestone. However, as many as two-thirds of all pediatric cancer survivors experience late side effects of the disease or its treatments (see list below) that don’t become apparent until some time after the child is cured. These late effects, which could include second cancers, heart damage, short stature, disturbances of puberty, learning impairments, thyroid disorders and fertility problems, are becoming an important focus in the realm of cancer care. Only a small minority of the population is aware of the potential late effects that cancer treatments received during childhood can cause. The HERO’S clinic strives to make patients and their families aware of these potential late effects, allowing the patient to take steps to identify, cope with or treat them early if they do develop.

Potential Long-term Effects of Childhood Cancer Treatments:

• Radiation: damage to organs in the radiation field that can result in subsequent cancers
• Alkylating agents: infertility, early menopause, subsequent leukemia
• Epiodophyllotoxins: subsequent leukemia
• Anthracyclines: congestive heart failure, irregular heart rhythm, subsequent leukemia
• Methotrexate: learning problems
• Steroids: weak bones, cataracts, memory problems
• Cis-platinum: hearing loss, renal toxicity

"Survivors need to keep coming back to a place where they can get updates on the latest results of research on the survivor experience. A comprehensive follow-up program helps survivors of childhood cancer stay well - Kim Trotta, R.N., HEROS Nurse

How is HEROS Clinic different from the follow-up I get from my primary oncologist?

In HEROS Clinic, we focus on the special care you need to maximize your health, given your past treatment exposures. We do not monitor for tumor recurrence or address treatment management decisions that your primary oncologist knows best. There is close communication with your primary oncologist after each yearly evaluation; you and your doctor(s) receive a summary of the results of your diagnostic tests and clinic visit.

What can I expect at my HEROS clinic appointment?

The HEROS Clinic provides specialized care for childhood cancer survivors, as well as health information for them and their families.

Each survivor receives a detailed review of his/her medical record, relevant laboratory tests, and a physical exam. Based on this comprehensive, individual assessment, specific suggestions are provided to each survivor to empower him/her to take steps to maximize his/her health, quality of life and longevity.

All findings and recommendations will be shared with the survivor and his/her oncologist and primary care physician.

How do I make an appointment at the HEROS Clinic?

To schedule an appointment or to speak with a memeber of the HEROS Clinic staff, please call 203-785-4640. Allow about an hour for your appointment.

Hours: First and third Tuesday morning of each month, 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Scheduling an appointment or more information: 203-785-4640
Location:
Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital Pediatric Specialty Clinic
1 Park Avenue
New Haven, CT 06510
Map and Directions

The HEROS Clinic is supported by the Tommy Fund, the Yale School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics, and the Connecticut Challenge.