Research for the Future of Children with Cancer

Each year, approximately 300 children and adolescents in Switzerland are diagnosed with cancer. Thanks to major medical advances, more than 87% of them survive for at least five years. However, this success often comes at a cost. Intensive treatments can cause long-term health problems known as late effects. The lungs are particularly vulnerable, and even mild, treatment-related damage can increase the risk of respiratory disease and a reduced quality of life later on. Therefore, detecting these problems early is essential.

PD Dr. Jakob Usemann is exploring new ways to identify lung changes much earlier and with far greater precision than ever before. Standard lung function tests, which are commonly used in follow-up care, often miss early damage. Dr. Usemann’s team is introducing advanced, non-invasive techniques, such as a targeted lung function test that can detect subtle ventilation problems, as well as a state-of-the-art lung MRI that can reveal structural and functional abnormalities without radiation.

The study follows children during and after cancer treatment to understand when lung changes first appear and which therapies may increase the risk. Initial results are reassuring: most children show no significant abnormalities at the start of treatment. The next crucial step is completing the MRI examinations after therapy, which will provide deeper insight into lung development, ventilation patterns, and potential early signs of long-term complications.

This research will pave the way for better follow-up care, earlier interventions, and ultimately healthier futures for childhood cancer survivors. None of this progress would be possible without the generosity of donors. Your support helps protect children’s lung health and gives families hope for a future with fewer late effects.

Links:

• Watch Dr. Usemann's 2-minute video on follow-up care