Adolescent Survivors of Cancer or Similar Illnesses

Health Behaviors in Adolescent Survivors of Cancer or Similar Illnesses

The purpose of this study is to examine the health behaviors of young adults who have been treated for cancer, leukemia, or similar illnesses. We will also ask you some questions about your family members' and friends' health behaviors. We plan to use the findings from this study to design new programs to help teenage cancer survivors resist doing things that might harm their health.

This study proposes to explore cancer-risk behaviors and future behavioral intentions among adolescent cancer survivors (i.e., 14-19 years old) and compare them to their "healthy" peers using population-based normative data. Additionally, it seeks to determine the significant theory-driven covariates related to adolescent survivors' health behaviors, which will aid in the design of future behavioral interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Current age at enrollment between 14 and 19;
• A diagnosis of cancer between the ages of 8 and 14;
• At least 12 months post-treatment and no evidence of disease (NED) at the time of assessment;
• Can be reached by mail or telephone;
• Fluent in English;
• Parent or legal guardian able to provide informed consent;
• Able to provide informed assent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major psychopathology or cognitive impairment likely in the judgment of the investigator to interfere with participation and compliance with the protocol.
• Currently receiving therapy for cancer treatment