
Corresponding author Wassim Chemaitilly, M.D., an associate member of the St. Jude Department of Pediatric Medicine – Division of Endocrinology
Many childhood cancer survivors dream of having children of their own. Advances in fertility preservation, especially for girls, are helping make that dream possible. Findings from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort study (St. Jude LIFE) may also help.
In a study of 921 female St. Jude LIFE participants, more than one in 10 had premature ovarian insufficiency. This condition can cause infertility. Survivors who had received abdominal radiation were more likely to have the condition than other survivors. High-dose chemotherapy with drugs called alkylating agents increased the risk even more.
“The results should help better identify patients at the start of treatment who are most likely to benefit from fertility preservation,” said Wassim Chemaitilly, MD, of St. Jude Pediatric Medicine–Endocrinology.
The study also revealed that survivors with premature ovarian insufficiency were more likely than other survivors to have weak bones and frail health as young adults. Chemaitilly called for more research to understand treatment options.
The research appeared in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.
More Information
-
St. Jude Newsroom
Visit the St. Jude newsroom to read our latest news, find media relations contacts and explore resources for journalists and bloggers.
-
Research at St. Jude
At St. Jude, science matters. From molecular breakthroughs to innovative therapies, our research discovers the cures of tomorrow, and saves children's lives today.
-
Research News & Publications
Browse the latest peer-reviewed articles from St. Jude investigators and clinicians, as well as breaking news, in-depth features and our Scientific Report.
-
About St. Jude
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
-
Clinical & Research Innovation
At St. Jude, we dream big, and build our research programs to match. Explore just a few of the pioneering initiatives that make St. Jude different.
-
Careers
St. Jude is a world-class research hospital seeking a diverse staff of faculty, researchers, clinicians, fundraisers and more. Find a job and help save lives.
-
Education and Training
St. Jude offers world-class scientific and clinical training experiences for fellows, students and other trainees. We also share knowledge through international outreach.