A study published in Nature Communications suggests that individuals who had cancer in childhood or adolescence may age faster than others of the same age.
Researchers examined around 1,400 long-term survivors treated at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Participants were primarily treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and Hodgkin lymphoma.
According to the research team from the University of Rochester Medical Center and St. Jude, analyses show changes in cells that are normally associated with aging.
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Chemotherapy was the treatment most clearly linked to signs of increased biological age.
The treatment can affect the genetic material of cells, thereby triggering processes that resemble early aging.
Affects memory
The study also shows a connection between biological age and brain function.
Participants whose cells appeared older than their actual age performed worse in tests of memory and concentration.
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According to the researchers, this may have implications for education and working life. In particular, individuals who received radiation therapy directly to the brain may require close follow-up to prevent further decline.
Possibility of slowing the process
Researchers are now working to determine when the aging process begins.
A small pilot study has compared samples from patients before and after treatment with samples from healthy individuals.
At the same time, ongoing research suggests that healthy habits can make a difference.
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According to the research team, studies show that exercise may counteract treatment-related aging.
Overall, the study highlights the need for long-term follow-up of young cancer survivors.
Sources: Science Daily, and Nature Communications.
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