Psychosocial outcomes and interventions among cancer survivors diagnosed during adolescence and young adulthood (AYA): a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose A cancer diagnosis during adolescence or young adulthood (AYA; defined as ages 15–39) generates unique medical and psychosocial needs as developmental milestones are simultaneously impacted. Past research highlights that AYAs’ experiences and psychosocial outcomes are different, and more research and attention is needed. We aimed to identify and synthesize literature regarding psychosocial outcomes, unique needs, and existing psychosocial interventions pertaining to individuals diagnosed with cancer exclusively during AYA, and to highlight areas for future research. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane, Web of Science, and PsycINFO (via OVID). Grey literature was searched using key term variations and combinations. Overall, 15,301 records were assessed by two independent reviewers, with 38 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Results Data synthesis of the 38 articles was organized by four main themes based on quality of life and survivorship: physical well-being (7 studies), psychological well-being (8 studies), social well-being (9 studies), and survivorship care (14 studies). The paucity of studies for such broad inclusion criteria highlights that this population is often combined or subsumed under other age groups, missing needs unique to these AYAs. Conclusions AYA cancer survivors’ experiences are nuanced, with interacting variables contributing to post-treatment outcomes. AYAs require age-appropriate and flexible care, informational needs and treatment-related education that foster autonomy for long-term survivorship, as well as improved follow-up care and psychological outcomes. Implications for Cancer Survivors By incorporating these findings into practice, the informational and unmet needs of AYAs can be addressed effectively. Education and programming is lacking specific and general subject matter specific to AYAs, incorporating ranging needs at different treatment stages.

Anxiety Among Adolescent Survivors of Pediatric Cancer

“…These results are consistent with the findings of a recent systematic review by our group assessing psychosocial outcomes for cancer survivors diagnosed specifically during adolescence or young adulthood. The prior review found evidence that survivors may be at risk for anxiety, PTSD/PTSS, and worry, and called for targeted additional research(16). …”

“…This modified version of the checklist has been used in a previously published systematic review(16). See Appendix B for a list of quality indicators.…”

Peace of mind among adolescents and young adults with cancer

“…Nearly 70 000 adolescents and young adults (AYAs), aged 15 to 29, are diagnosed with cancer in the United States annually . While clinical progress has been made, over half of these patients have unmet needs related to medical or psychosocial aspects of cancer care .…”

Anticancer chemotherapy in teenagers and young adults: managing long term side effects

“…TYAs may also wish to access self help groups or online peer support to connect with cancer patients or survivors of a similar age, as well as benefit from advice on how to discuss their diagnosis with others. 52 US data suggest there is inadequate provision of psychological support to serve the needs of TYA cancer patients, 54 although corresponding UK data are lacking. The UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends psychosocial needs assessment for patients up to the age of 24 years, and for their families or carers, and to offer appropriate specialist support at "key points" of care including long term follow-up, 55 as well as early referral to fertility services.…”