Cancer and Academic Success
Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in the United States for children and adolescents, but survival rates have significantly increased over the past 20 years. This increase is due to advancements in medical treatment and technology, which have resulted in cures and long-term remission rates for children and adolescents (St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 2012). Yet, children and adolescents diagnosed with pediatric cancer still experience significant lifestyle changes, which can affect many aspects of their educational experience. For example, students may be likely to miss more than a month of school due to hospitalization and treatment plans (Katz, Kellerman, & Siegal, 1980).
In order to combat the effects of cancer treatment and student absenteeism, schools, hospitals, and cancer treatment centers provide creative options for students to continue school during treatment. For example, the MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital provides education programs for students to stay at grade level while they are in the hospital (The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 2012).
For this Discussion, consider impacts of pediatric cancer on the educational experience of children and adolescents.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 4
1. an explanation of the potential impacts of having pediatric cancer on an individual’s education and academic success.
2.Then, explain two ways in which pediatric cancer might impact peer relationships within the academic environment.
3. Finally, explain one strategy that a school might use to effectively support a student who is experiencing these issues.
Support your response using the Learning Resources and other current literature.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.