The effect of cancer and its therapy upon fertility

The consequences of radiation therapy and antineoplastic therapy on the fetus have been reviewed. There are certain general principles that have been summarized in this presentation. There is less information available on neoplasia and neonatal malformations induced by chemotherapy but there may be an increased risk. The delayed consequences of radiation and chemotherapy are not well known and more study is required. However, now that at least 21 cancers of the 100 human cancers are being cured or the lives of patients greatly prolonged who are of childbearing age, there is an urgency in studying the effects of cancer therapy on fertility. (Author)