What is a potential long-term effect of chemotherapy?

A potential long-term effect of chemotherapy is the development of secondary malignancies. This occurs because certain chemotherapy agents can damage the DNA in normal cells, potentially leading to mutations that result in new cancers. While chemotherapy is effective in targeting malignancies, it can also have a paradoxical effect on healthy cells, particularly over time.

Patients treated with specific chemotherapeutic agents, such as alkylating agents or topoisomerase inhibitors, may be at increased risk for developing secondary cancers later in life, which can include leukemia or other solid tumors. This risk can be influenced by factors such as the type and duration of chemotherapy, the patient's age, and the underlying cancer being treated.

In contrast, the other options do not represent typical long-term effects associated with chemotherapy. Improved immune response and enhanced cardiac function are not outcomes that are generally expected following chemotherapy. Additionally, while some patients may experience a temporary improvement in their reproductive function after treatment, infertility can often be a lasting effect of chemotherapy, especially with certain regimens. Hence, recognizing secondary malignancies as a long-term effect highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance and health management for individuals who undergo chemotherapy.