Frequently Asked Questions

Expert answers to questions about pediatric cancers.

Brain tumors & choosing a cancer center
My cousin is affected by a brain tumor and is now under treatment at the European tumor center in Milan. We're looking for another center worldwide specialized in the treatment of such a tumor. Could you give your suggestion answering to this address please let me know if you need further information's to give your opinion. Thank

Finding Support for Kids During Cancer Treatment
Question How can I help my kids deal with their dad's illness? Some say to keep things as normal as you can, but I feel nothing is "normal" anymore. Answer Christina Bach, Oncology Social Worker at Penn Medicine responds: I know it is really hard to maintain normalcy after a cancer diagnosis---especially with your children. I talk to my

Are my Kids at Risk for Colon Cancer?
Question I am 43 years old and was recently diagnosed with stage III colon cancer. Are my kids or other family members at risk for colon cancer since I am so young? How do I know if they should have genetic testing? Answer Liz Prechtel-Dunphy, Oncology Nurse Practitioner at Penn Medicine responds: Being diagnosed with colon cancer at a young

Eating tips for pediatric oncology patients
Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," I am a pediatric dietitian on an oncology floor. Most of my patients have very poor oral intake. I try supplements, shakes, favorite foods, snacks, etc and sometimes nothing seems to work. Some patients go weeks w/out eating much. Do you have any suggestions on how to increase oral intake? Thanks.

Carcinoid Patients & Kids at Higher Risk For Cancer?
Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts," Are carcinoid patients at higher risk for other cancers? Are children of carcinoid patients more likely to develop the disease? Weijing Sun, MD, Medical Oncologist at Penn Medicine, responds: Not necessarily. For patients with a genetic mutation (such as MEN I), then yes, they have increased risks as well