The STAR Program (Survivors Taking Action & Responsibility) is a comprehensive long-term follow-up program for adult survivors of pediatric cancer. We are one of only two such programs providing this specialized care in the United Sates. We define adult survivors as being 18 years of age and older. The STAR Program follows survivors through adulthood focusing on their special medical and psychological needs. Services are provided in a clinical setting with an emphasis on patient care, education, and research.

The program is directed by Aarati Didwania MD, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine, and coordinated by Karen Kinahan, MS, RN, BC, who has expertise in pediatric oncology and the effects of treatment from childhood cancer. A medical psychologist is available to evaluate patients during these clinic sessions.

STAR patients are seen on an annual basis with special attention to health maintenance, screening and patient education issues. The STAR staff coordinates all patient-care.

If patients are in need of further expertise regarding the various late effects of their past treatment, patients are directed to sub-specialists familiar with childhood cancer survivor issues. Patients may be seen more frequently in the STAR clinic if their conditions dictate closer management. All patients are consented to enroll in this research-based program.