Childhood cancer linked to chronic fatigue syndrome

Too many Pennsylvania residents understand how emotionally and financially challenging a cancer diagnosis can be -- particularly if the illness affects a child. Although successfully completing treatment is definitely a relief, many readers may be interested to know that juvenile cancer and its treatment has been correlated with chronic fatigue, another debilitating medical condition.

When dealing with the financial stress of a persistent illness, adults may seek the support of Social Security disability insurance. Taking time to focus on health after a receiving serious diagnosis may render an individual unable to work, which obviously creates a need for resources. Those who develop chronic fatigue syndrome years after going through the difficulty of cancer treatment may qualify for SSD benefits.

According to the results of a recently published study, 27 percent of childhood cancer survivors showed signs of chronic fatigue. At the same time, only 8 percent of non-survivors exhibited the same medical issues.

Although chronic fatigue isn't completely understood, medical professionals understand that constantly feeling exhausted, being unable to concentrate and feeling continual muscle pain can make it impossible to work comfortably. Fortunately, scientists have also found a link between a body's inability to respond to inflammation and chronic fatigue, a finding that could help identify the condition early and work toward treatment.

Until more is understood about chronic fatigue, many who deal with the illness may seek support elsewhere, including disability benefits. Before moving ahead with an application for SSD benefits, it may be helpful to consult with a legal professional to ensure you provide adequate documentation to receive approval.

Source: News-Medical.net, "Survivors of childhood leukemia and lymphoma are at greater risk of chronic fatigue: Study," March 21, 2013

  • Our firm has experience handling a variety of disability claims. To find out more, please see our Pittsburgh Social Security Disability page.

Think you have a workers’ compensation case?

Contact us

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
One of our attorneys will review your case within 24 hours and we will reach out with the next steps