DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2015.v03i01.086

Pages: 440-443

Cancer is a systemic disease that appears in many different parts of the human body. Its route is different each time; it depends on its localization and cell differentiation. The purpose of this study is to highlight the impact of cancer on both families and children and show the methods of care provision for children and their families. It was extensively conducted a relevant recent literature review of electronic databases (Pub Med, Google Scholar) and scientific magazines. The keywords that were used were: cancer, impact, family, and children. Exclusion criteria of articles were the language, except for Greek and English. Not only does the course of cancer have impact on patients, but also on patient’s family and friends. The way the the patient’s family behaves and their emotions differ widely due to the trajectory of the illness. Cancer in children is no longer considered a disease closely connected with death. It is considered as a chronic illness. Nowadays, emphasis is placed on both child’s survival and quality of life. These objectives are present not only during child’s treatment but also after its completion. Children’s mental and psychosocial maturation is affected by cancer and its treatment. Thus, children’s education and social inclusion are hampered. The whole family has to face the changes that arise from the course of the disease and its symptoms along with the psychological and social changes that may arouse.