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(2 points) Why are children more likely to suffer from side effects of cancer treatments,

specifically second cancers?

User Ignis
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Children are more likely to suffer from side effects of cancer treatments, specifically second cancers, due to their developing bodies and long life expectancy. The aggressive treatments used to combat cancer can damage healthy cells and increase the risk of developing new cancers later in life. Children's immune systems may be more vulnerable, making them more susceptible to potential side effects.


Step-by-step explanation:

Children are more likely to suffer from side effects of cancer treatments, specifically second cancers, due to their developing bodies and long life expectancy. The aggressive treatments used to combat cancer can damage healthy cells and increase the risk of developing new cancers later in life. Additionally, children's immune systems may be more vulnerable, making them more susceptible to potential side effects.

For example, radiation therapy, commonly used to kill cancer cells, can also damage healthy tissues and increase the risk of developing a second cancer. Chemotherapy drugs can affect the DNA of cells, potentially leading to mutations and the development of new cancers.

Furthermore, because children have a longer life expectancy after cancer treatment, they have a greater period of time for potential side effects, such as second cancers, to manifest.


Learn more about Side effects of cancer treatments in children

User Ioan Moldovan
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