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The purpose of this study was to define the therapy-associated dental abnormalities in survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We reviewed the clinical records and panoramic radiographs of 423 survivors of ALL who were treated on one of four consecutive protocols (1975-1991). Dental abnormalities included root stunting, microdontia, hypodontia, taurodontia (enlarged pulp chambers), and over-retention of primary teeth. The frequency of these factors was determined in relation to age at initiation of treatment (< or = 8 years vs > 8 years), addition of cranial irradiation, and chemotherapeutic protocol. A total of 423 patients met the study criteria. The abnormalities comprised root stunting in 24.4% (n = 103), microdontia in 18.9% (n = 80), hypodontia in 8.5% (n = 36), taurodontia in 5.9% (n = 25), and over-retention of primary dentition in 4.0% (n = 17). Patients who were < or = 8 years old at diagnosis or who received cranial irradiation therapy developed more dental abnormalities than did those > 8 years and those who did not receive cranial irradiation (42 vs 32%). Survivors of childhood ALL often have dental abnormalities that may affect their quality of life. Dental evaluation at diagnosis and frequent follow-up may help to ensure appropriate preventive measures and minimize dental and periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors surveyed 251 adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who were long-term survivors of childhood cancer. The purpose of the study was twofold: to determine the proportion of survivors who participated in organized sports and to examine demographic, medical, and health-related variables that discriminated between participants and nonparticipants. A significantly greater percentage of the participants had access to a local health care provider and to health insurance than did nonparticipants. Participants also were more likely to engage in other forms of exercise. The findings are discussed in light of interventions that promote health by targeting physical fitness and exercise for survivors of cancer and the resources necessary for them to engage in health-protective behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]