Lactation Outcomes Among Survivors of Pediatric Cancer

Lactation Outcomes Among Survivors of Pediatric Cancer

While the majority of women in the general population can breastfeed successfully, the investigators have limited knowledge about the correlates and sequelae of lactation success among women treated for pediatric malignancies. Childhood cancer treatments are known to cause late effects that frequently involve the endocrine system. Because normal lactation is dependent upon interplay of multiple endocrine factors, the investigators anticipate more breastfeeding difficulties in survivors that have diabetes, growth hormone deficiencies, thyroid disorders and obesity. In order to more fully inform clinicians and female survivors, the study of the burden of lactation failure is needed to begin to address the impact of pediatric cancer therapy on lactation success/failure and to examine the association of specific endocrine disorders on lactation outcomes.

Participants will complete a cross-sectional survey. Responses will be compared with a national sample of healthy women from Project First (Infant Feeding Practices Survey II).

Primary Objective:

• To describe breastfeeding outcomes (intention, initiation, duration, and weaning) among female SJLIFE protocol participants 18 years of age and older who reported a live birth.

Secondary Objective:

• To compare breastfeeding outcomes between childhood cancer survivors and healthy mothers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants in the SJLIFE protocol or patients in the After Completion of Therapy (ACT) Clinic, both at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
• Female
• 18 years of age or older
• At least one reported live birth after childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to read and write.
• Unable to read and understand English.