Identifying and addressing the needs of adolescents and young adults with cancer: summary of an Institute of Medicine workshop

Abstract

Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). This population faces many short- and long-term health and psychosocial consequences of cancer diagnosis and treatment, but many programs for cancer treatment, survivorship care, and psychosocial support do not focus on the specific needs of AYA cancer patients. Recognizing this health care disparity, the National Cancer Policy Forum of the Institute of Medicine convened a public workshop to examine the needs of AYA patients with cancer. Workshop participants identified many gaps and challenges in the care of AYA cancer patients and discussed potential strategies to address these needs. Suggestions included ways to improve access to care for AYAs, to deliver cancer care that better meets the medical and psychosocial needs of AYAs, to develop educational programs for providers who care for AYA cancer survivors, and to enhance the evidence base for AYAs with cancer by facilitating participation in research.

Keywords: Adolescent; Adverse effects; Cancer survivorship; Fertility preservation; Psychosocial aspects; Young adult.

Conflict of interest statement

Disclosures of potential conflicts of interest may be found at the end of this article.

©AlphaMed Press.

Figures

Figure 1.

The prevalence of cancer histology by age, 15–39 years. Abbreviation: AYAs, adolescents and young adults.

Figure 2.

Possible life disruptions for AYA patients with cancer [5, 22]. Abbreviation: AYAs, adolescents and young adults.