Background: Cancer survivors have an increased risk of life-long health problems that may be associated with their treatment.
Methods: 78 women who 10 years or more ago at an age of below 40 had received mantle field radiotherapy for Hodgkin's lymphoma were examined for breast cancer and general health problems. Women in a population-based survey served as a control group.
Results: Breast cancer was found in two of the 78 patients; 44% reported impaired health (control group: 26%).
Interpretation: Late-onset effects from successful cancer treatment may increase the risk of health problems and, for some, the development of cancer. In agreement with the literature we recommend that women with mantle field irradiation before the age of 30 are given annual mammography starting 10 years after radiotherapy. Health care professionals who see cancer survivors should be aware of these patients' risk of health impairment.