Childhood Brain Cancer Survivors at Higher Risk of Academic Setbacks

Survivors of childhood brain cancer are at a significantly higher risk of falling behind in school compared to their peers, according to a new study led by Dr. Raymond Mailhot of the University of Florida. Despite advances in treatments that increase survival rates, the academic impacts for these children can be severe, often resulting in poorer test performance and higher rates of grade repetition.

Math Performance and School Accommodations Highlight Challenges

Dr. Mailhot and his team discovered that childhood brain cancer survivors had twice the odds of being held back a grade and were 21 times more likely to require special accommodations, such as extra help during exams. The most striking academic deficit was in math, where survivors performed worse than their peers on state assessments. The study highlights the long-term cognitive challenges associated with the disease and its treatment, which often include disruptions in schooling and direct effects on brain function.

Tailored Support Critical for Survivors' Long-Term Success

These findings shed light on the specific educational barriers faced by childhood brain cancer survivors, emphasizing the need for tailored academic support. While the physical battle against cancer may be won, the academic hurdles can persist for years, impacting future opportunities. Mailhot stresses the importance of collaboration between caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals to ensure that survivors receive the resources they need to thrive in school. With greater awareness of these challenges, there is potential for more intentional, customized support that addresses the educational deficits these children face.