AYA Cancer Survivors Research Articles

(115) SEXUAL SELF-ESTEEM IN TWO SAMPLES OF ADOLESCENT AND YOUNG ADULT CANCER SURVIVORS: A QUALITATIVE INVESTIGATION

Abstract Introduction As rates of survival from cancer continue to increase in adolescents and young adults, long term physical and psychological impacts are likely to rise. For those diagnosed with cancer during childhood or adolescence, one such late effect may be delayed sexual development. Delayed sexual development may manifest as issues of sexual functioning (i.e., the ability to successfully complete the sexual response cycle) as well as issues of sexual self-concept (i.e., how one navigates the world as a sexual being). These issues may, in turn, impact survivors’ self-esteem. These concerns are likely to be exponentially exacerbated when survivors identify as a member of a sexual and/or gender minority (SGM) group. Objective Based on empirical research and two studies from our team, we examine variables that impact the sexual self-esteem of AYA cancer survivors, particularly those that identify as members of an SGM group. Methods In our small pilot project, we conducted cognitive interviews to assess whether a novel model, adapted from sexual health frameworks established by Woods (1995) and Evan et al. (2006), applied to AYA cancer survivors. Following analysis of these interviews, we refined our model, and received funding for a larger qualitative study (n = 30) tailored to AYA cancer survivors who identify as members of an SGM group. Results Four cisgender female cancer survivors participated in this small qualitative study, which provided preliminary validation that variables such as body image, amount of sexual education, quality of interpersonal relationships, and sexual functioning, were all tied into one’s perception of their sexual self-esteem. Several additional potential variables were identified from these interviews, including amount of sexual equity (how much participants felt that their sexual activity was balanced between them and a partner), religiosity, negative self-evaluative emotions (e.g., guilt and shame), and SGM identity, that could influence sexual self-esteem. Preliminary analyses of our SGM-focused qualitative study have revealed high levels of asexuality and mental health comorbidities that may be affecting sexual self-esteem. Recruitment and analysis for this study is ongoing. Conclusions Results from these two studies will provide some of the first empirical research on sexual self-esteem in a population for which sexual health is vastly under researched. We anticipate that this work will lay the foundation for novel measurements and interventions for these individuals. By providing a voice to those who are underrepresented in research, we hope that this research may have high-impact in informing future interventions to become more holistic and culturally-informed to allow for studies to ensure they are reflecting all identities of cancer survivors. Finally, we anticipate that this research may be of significant benefit to oncology providers and clinicians to overhaul and adapt sexual education for patients in treatment, as well as inform areas of concern and assessment for these providers and clinicians, particularly among their SGM patients and survivors. Disclosure No.

Neighborhood factors associated with late effects among survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the associations between neighborhood income, education, and neighborhood racial composition (measured as a low percentage of white residents) and risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD), diabetes (DM), and severe depression among survivors of AYA cancer and matched non-cancer peers. Two-year survivors of AYA cancers diagnosed at age 15-39 yrs at Kaiser Permanente Southern California (diagnosed 2000-2012) and individually matched (1:13) non-cancer subjects were included. The development of CVD, DM, and severe depression was ascertained via electronic health records. Neighborhood characteristics were obtained from census-based geocoded data. Cox regression evaluated associations between neighborhood characteristics and the health outcomes of interest among both the cancer survivors and the non-cancer comparison cohort and effect modification by cancer survivor status on these relationships. Among cancer survivors (n = 6774), living in mostly non-white neighborhoods, was associated with risk of CVD (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.54 (95% CI 1.00-2.36)), while lower education level (HR = 1.41 (95% CI 1.02-1.94)) was associated with risk of severe depression. None of the neighborhood characteristics were associated with risk of DM. Effect modification was found for neighborhood education and risk of DM and severe depression. When jointly considered, cancer survivors who resided in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods were at the highest risk of developing these health outcomes compared to other subgroups. Our findings may inform screening strategy and addressing social determinants of health among AYA cancer survivors.

Testing effectiveness and implementation of a standardized approach to sexual dysfunction screening among adolescent and young adult-aged survivors of childhood cancer: A type I hybrid, mixed methods trial protocol: Effectiveness of sexual dysfunction screening among AYA cancer survivors: a study protocol.

Approximately 20-50% of adolescent and young adult-aged childhood cancer survivors (AYA-CCS) experience sexual dysfunction (SD), although this healthcare need is widely underrecognized. Previous research from both AYA-CCS patients and their providers report that SD needs are unaddressed despite patient desires for SD discussions to be incorporated as part of their care. Patients and providers agree that standardized use of a patient-reported outcome measure may facilitate SD discussions; an SD screening approach was developed with patient and provider input. This study will measure the effectiveness of a standardized SD screening intervention and assess implementation outcomes and multilevel barriers and facilitators to guide future research. This multi-site, mixed methods, type 1 effectiveness-implementation hybrid trial will be evaluated using a pre-post design (NCT05524610). The trial will enroll 86 AYA-CCS (ages 15-39) from two cancer centers in the United States. The SD intervention consists of core fundamental functions with a "menu" of intervention options to allow for flexibility in delivery and tailoring in variable contexts. Effectiveness of the intervention on facilitating SD communication will be measured through patient surveys and clinical data; multivariable logistic regression will be used for the binary outcome of self-reported SD screening, controlling for patient-level predictors. Implementation outcomes will be assessed using mixed methods (electronic health record abstraction, patient and provider surveys, and provider interviews. Quantitative and qualitative findings will be merged using a joint display to understand factors affecting intervention success. Identification and treatment of SD in AYA-CCS is an important and challenging quality of life concern. The type 1 hybrid design will facilitate rapid translation from research to practice by testing the effects of the intervention while simultaneously identifying multilevel barriers and facilitators to real-world implementation. This approach will inform future testing and dissemination of the SD screening intervention.

Mapping models of care for children, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: A scoping review.

e13793 Background: Young cancer survivors, with decades of life ahead, encounter substantial risks for treatment-related late effects. Achieving optimal outcomes requires a comprehensive multi-dimensional approach. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the evidence on models of survivorship care for Child (0-14) and Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA, 15-39) cancer survivors aligning with the Framework for Quality Cancer Survivorship. Methods: Conducted according to PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, this study systematically searched MEDLINE, CINAHL and Embase for English articles from Jan 2006 to Jan 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies describing patient and health service domain for Child and AYA cancer survivorship models of care. Dual processes were used for article screening, selection, and data extraction. A deductive analysis, using Content Analysis informed results, presented in a narrative synthesis. Results: Of the 5,298 records screened 38 described Child and 10 described AYA models of care. The majority were cohort and cross-sectional studies from the USA, Canada, and the UK representing 6,101 Child and 5,283 AYA cancer survivors. Across these diverse studies, a broad range of outcomes were identified with most domains of the Framework represented. No model of care described more domains than another. Across the 13 possible elements of care and outcomes, most (68%) reported on less than five of these. The domains most represented included elements of care rather than outcomes at the service level such as the clinic structure (52%), communication and decision making (52%) and patient/carer satisfaction (50%). At the patient level, quality of life outcomes and assessment and management of physical symptoms were represented in 40% of studies. There were few studies reporting on health promotion (23%), chronic conditions (13%), mortality and healthcare utilization (5% each) and none reported on costs. In terms of outcomes, oncologist long-term follow up care showed higher adherence to risk-based recommendations compared to primary care models in some studies. Other studies suggest a shared care model increases adherence and decrease lost to follow-up. At the service level, high satisfaction with care was common in all models. Overall, there was not enough to evidence to support one model over another in either Child or AYA survivorship care. Conclusions: Despite decades of research in survivorship care, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness and efficiency of different models of care. No single model stands out as superior, and there are notable gaps in understanding the economic and value proposition of different models. Addressing these gaps is crucial for the future development, and provision of quality survivorship care tailored for this patient population.

Toward identification and intervention to address financial toxicity and unmet health-related social needs among adolescents and emerging adults with cancer and their caregivers: A cross-cultural perspective.

We qualitatively explored the unique needs and preferences for financial toxicity screening and interventions to address financial toxicity among adolescents and emerging adults (younger AYAs: 15-25 years) with cancer and their caregivers. We recruited English- or Spanish-speaking younger AYAs who were treated for cancer within the past 2 years and their caregivers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore preferences for screening and interventional study development to address financial toxicity. The data were coded using conventional content analysis. Codes were reviewed with the study team, and interviews continued until saturation was reached; codes were consolidated into categories and themes during consensus discussions. We interviewed 17 participants; nine were younger AYAs. Seven of the 17 preferred to speak Spanish. We identified three cross-cutting themes: burden, support, and routine, consistent, and clear. The burden came in the form of unexpected costs such as transportation to appointments, as well as emotional burdens such as AYAs worrying about how much their family sacrificed for their care or caregivers worrying about the AYA's physical and financial future. Support, in the form of familial, community, healthcare institution, and insurance, was critical to mitigating the effects of financial toxicity in this population. Participants emphasized the importance of meeting individual financial needs by routinely and consistently asking about financial factors and providing clear guidance to navigate these needs. Younger AYAs and their caregivers experience significant financial challenges and unmet health-related social needs during cancer treatment and often rely on key supports to alleviate these unmet needs. When developing interventions to mitigate financial toxicity, clinicians and health systems should prioritize clear, consistent, and tailorable approaches to support younger AYA cancer survivors and their families.

Abstract 1306: Preferences for survivorship care among AYA cancer survivors and challenges of cancer specialist-led follow up

Abstract Background: The number of cancer survivors is increasing substantially. Survivorship care, including long-term health care, for adolescent and young adult (15-39 years) (AYA) cancer survivors is not standardized. AYA cancer survivors have unique challenges that differ from those of other generations. The purpose of this study was to highlight challenges regarding survivorship care for AYA cancer survivors. Methods: This study assessed survivorship care challenges for AYA cancer survivors based on questionnaire data in two configurations. We surveyed AYA cancer survivors diagnosed with various cancer types at our hospital regarding the actual status and challenges of survivorship care. Questionnaires assessed schooling and employment status, place of residence, length of hospital visits, cost of transportation to hospital, department and reason for visits, and issues related to survivorship care. We then surveyed cancer specialists who provide survivorship care about the actual status and challenges of survivorship care, including issues identified in the AYA cancer survivor survey. Results: Ninety-eight AYA cancer survivors responded; 42 survivors (42.9%) were aged 20-29 and 45 (45.9%) were aged 30-39. The median time since completion of cancer treatment was 3.7 years. Most survivors (85.7%) hoped for long-term follow-up for surveillance of cancer recurrence. There were 27 survivors (27.6%) who received survivorship care in more than one department, and 26 (26.5%) received survivorship care in cooperation with other departments in the other hospital. Due to schoolwork and jobs, 52.0% of survivors felt that time for outpatient visits was scarce, and 51.0% of survivors indicated that they would prefer online survivorship care. On the other hand, the survey for cancer specialists was completed by 45 respondents (70.3%). More than 60% of cancer specialists providing follow-up care for AYA cancer patients felt that knowledge and experience in reproductive medicine and life events was necessary. Furthermore, regarding the challenges of long-term follow-up care for AYA cancer patients, more than 80% of physicians felt that mental, endocrine-related, and sexual function-related care and management were difficult in their own practices. Conclusion: AYA cancer survivors with schoolwork and jobs felt that they had challenges in visiting outpatient clinics for survivorship care. Meanwhile, cancer specialists found it difficult to provide mental, endocrine, and reproductive care for AYA cancer survivorship care on their own. These require standardization of medical treatment content and systems for survivorship care for AYA. Citation Format: Yuki Kojima, Yayoi Ando, Yuki Nogami, Shintaro Iwata, Tatsuya Suzuki, Eriko Satomi. Preferences for survivorship care among AYA cancer survivors and challenges of cancer specialist-led follow up [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1306.

Satisfaction and effectiveness of a digital health tool to improve health behavior counseling among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: a randomized controlled pilot trial

BackgroundThis pilot study examined the preliminary effectiveness of the PREVENT digital intervention that supports health care teams in delivering health behavior counseling on cancer survivors’ motivation to change behavior, their physical activity and food intake behaviors, and cardiovascular health (CVH).MethodsClinicians (physicians, nurse practitioners) at three urban cancer survivorship clinics were trained to use PREVENT. Patients were randomized to the PREVENT intervention or a wait-list routine care control group. Eligibility criteria for patients included: between ages 12–39, overweight or obese, were at least 6-months post-active cancer treatment, and had sufficient English proficiency.ResultsFifty-five participants were enrolled; 27 were randomized to the PREVENT intervention and 28 to wait-list routine care control. The majority of the participants (82%) identified as non-Hispanic white, with an average age of 19.8 (SD ± 5.2) years. Patients that received the PREVENT intervention had greater increases in their self-efficacy, vigorous activity and number of food recommendations met than those who received routine clinical care. Changes in willingness, knowledge, and CVH outcomes were not significant.ConclusionsThe PREVENT digital intervention may provide improvements in preventive behaviors among AYA cancer survivors by supporting care teams with delivering evidence-based, tailored behavior change recommendations and resources to support patient health.Trial registrationThis trial (NCT04623190) was registered on 11/02/2022.

Late endocrine diseases in survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer in California: a population-based study.

Cancer survivors have increased risk of endocrine complications, but there is a lack of information on the occurrence of specific endocrinopathies at the population-level. We used data from the California Cancer Registry (2006-2018) linked to statewide hospitalisation, emergency department, and ambulatory surgery databases. We estimated the cumulative incidence of and factors associated with endocrinopathies among adolescents and young adults (AYA, 15-39 years) who survived ≥2 years after diagnosis. Among 59,343 AYAs, 10-year cumulative incidence was highest for diabetes (4.7%), hypothyroidism (4.6%), other thyroid (2.2%) and parathyroid disorders (1.6%). Hypothyroidism was most common in Hodgkin lymphoma, leukaemia, breast, and cervical cancer survivors, while diabetes was highest among survivors of leukaemias, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, colorectal, cervical, and breast cancer. In multivariable models, factors associated with increased hazard of endocrinopathies were treatment, advanced stage, public insurance, residence in low/middle socioeconomic neighbourhoods, older age, and non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic race/ethnicity. Haematopoietic cell transplant was associated with most endocrinopathies, while chemotherapy was associated with a higher hazard of ovarian dysfunction and hypothyroidism. We observed a high burden of endocrinopathies among AYA cancer survivors, which varied by treatment and social factors. Evidence-based survivorship guidelines are needed for surveillance of these diseases.

Long-term second primary cancer risk in adolescent and young adult (15-39 years) cancer survivors: a population-based study in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2018

Few studies have comprehensively investigated the long-term second cancer risk among adolescent and young adult (AYA, aged 15-39 years) cancer survivors. This study investigated the long-term second cancer risk by including the full range of first and second cancer combinations with at least 10 observations in the Netherlands between 1989 and2018. First and second primary cancer data of all 6-month AYA cancer survivors were obtained from the nationwide population-based Netherlands Cancer Registry. Excess cancer risk compared to the general population was assessed with standardized incidence ratio (SIR) and absolute excess risk (AER) statistics up to 25 years after diagnosis. Cumulative incidences were estimated, using death as a competing risk factor. Analyses were carried out with and without applying multiple cancer rules. The cohort included 99 502 AYA cancer survivors. Male survivors had a 2-fold higher risk of developing any cancer compared to the general population, whereas this was around 1.3-fold in females. AERs were 17.5 and 10.1 per 10 000 person-years for males and females. The long-term excess risk of cancer was significantly higher for most first and second primary cancer combinations, but comparable and lower risk estimates were also observed. Application of the multiple cancer rules resulted in a noticeable risk underestimation in melanoma, testicular, and breast cancer survivors. Risk outcomes remained similar in most cases otherwise. The cumulative incidence of second cancer overall increased over time up to 8.9% in males and 10.3% in females at 25 years' follow-up. Highest long-term cumulative incidences were observed among lymphoma survivors (13.3% males and 18.9% females). AYA cancer survivors have a higher cancer risk compared to the general population for most cancers up to 25 years after their initial cancer diagnosis. Additional studies that investigate risk factors for the specific cancer type combinations are needed to develop personalized follow-up strategies.

Risk of adverse birth outcomes after adolescent and young adult cancer.

Many women diagnosed with cancer as adolescents and young adults (AYAs, age 15-39 years) want biological children after cancer but lack information on the potential impact of their cancer history on future reproductive outcomes. We investigated the risk of adverse birth outcomes among AYA cancer survivors. We identified insured women diagnosed with AYA breast cancer, thyroid cancer, gynecologic cancers, lymphoma, or melanoma from 2003 to 2016 in the state of North Carolina or the Kaiser Permanente health care systems in northern and southern California. Post-diagnosis births to cancer survivors were each matched with up to 5 births to women without cancer. Risk ratios for preterm birth (<37 completed weeks), very preterm birth (<34 completed weeks), low birth weight (<2500 g), and small for gestational age (SGA, <10th percentile of weight for gestational age) were estimated using modified Poisson regression. Analyses included 1648 births to 1268 AYA cancer survivors and 7879 births to 6066 women without cancer. Overall, risk of preterm birth, very preterm birth, low birth weight, and SGA did not significantly differ between births to women with and without cancer. However, births to women with gynecologic cancers had a significantly increased risk of low birth weight (risk ratio = 1.82; 95% confidence interval: 1.03 to 3.21) and suggested increased risk of preterm birth (risk ratio = 1.59; 95% confidence interval: 0.99 to 2.54). Chemotherapy exposure was not associated with increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. Women with gynecologic cancers, but not other cancers, had an increased risk of adverse birth outcomes compared to women without cancer.

Abstract A120: Social risks among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors in a US-based integrated delivery system

Abstract Purpose: Adolescent and young adult (AYA; diagnosed between the ages of 15-39) cancer survivors are at increased risk of experiencing social risk factors, including financial toxicity, food, housing, and transportation difficulties associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Screening for social risks has been shown to be associated with improved health and healthcare outcomes. There is an increased emphasis on implementing social risk screening as part of routine healthcare. However, oncology practices do not routinely assess for and assist patients with social risks, thereby missing a crucial aspect of cancer care. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of social risks among AYA cancer survivors in a United States-based integrated health system. Methods: We analyzed data from 330 AYA members of Kaiser Permanente Northwest (Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington) who were diagnosed with cancer, either pre- or post-completion of 1 or more social risk screenings between January 1, 2017, to January 30, 2022 (first screening defined as the index date). Four social risk domains (financial hardship, food insecurity, housing instability, and transportation difficulties) were assessed based on patient self-report to indicate the presence or absence of each domain (binary: yes or no). A binary, composite variable was created to assess any social risk (i.e., the presence of any social risk) versus no social risk. Descriptive statistics, including a chi-square test and t-test, were used to compare the prevalence of social risks among AYA cancer survivors overall and by time since cancer diagnosis. Results: Of the 330 patients, the majority were female (n=229, 69%), identified as non-Hispanic white (n=251, 76%), and had an Elixhauser comorbidity index score of 3+ conditions (n=115, 35%). Most AYAs were diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 30-39 (n=181, 59%), and 43% of the AYAs had been diagnosed &amp;lt;1 year (n=141). Overall, the majority of AYA members were diagnosed with cancer prior to their social risk screening (n=301, 91%). We found that nearly one-quarter of patients reported at least one social risk (n=64, 19%), with financial hardship as the most common (14%), followed by food insecurity (9%), housing instability (8%), and transportation difficulties (3%). A greater proportion of patients diagnosed &amp;lt;1 year reported having &amp;gt; 1 social risk (40%), followed by patients diagnosed 1 to &amp;lt;5 years (37%) and patients who had been diagnosed 5+ years (23%). Conclusion: Despite the critical need for strategies to identify and address social risks within the oncology setting, few studies have explored the prevalence and impact of social risks among AYA cancer survivors. Our results suggest that AYA cancer survivors experience the highest burden of social risks proximal to a cancer diagnosis. This work demonstrates the importance of assessing and addressing social risks for AYA cancer survivors. Future studies are needed to evaluate the longitudinal effects of social risks on AYA cancer survivors’ healthcare use and subsequent health outcomes. Citation Format: Carol Y. Ochoa-Dominguez, Kimberly A. Miller, Maria Elena Martinez, David M. Mosen, John F. Dickerson, Ana I. Velázquez Mañana, Matthew P. Banegas. Social risks among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors in a US-based integrated delivery system [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A120.

Patient-Reported Outcomes of Accelerated Aging: A Novel Approach to Investigate Second Cancer Risk in Adolescent and Young Adult (18-39 Years) Cancer Survivors.

Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYAs, aged 18-39 years at first diagnosis) have a higher second cancer risk. Accelerated aging is hypothesized as underlying mechanism and has been described clinically by 6 indicators; fatigue, low quality of sleep, low mood, lack of motivation, subjective memory complaints, and poor exercise tolerance. Using patient-reported outcomes, we aimed to identify clusters of accelerated aging among AYA cancer survivors and to investigate their association with second cancer development. Patient, tumor, and treatment data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Patient-reported clinical indicators and second cancer data were obtained from the SURVivors (5-20 years) of cancer in AYAs (SURVAYA) questionnaire study between 1999 and 2015. Latent class and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. In total, n = 3734 AYA survivors with known second cancer status (n = 278 [7.4%] second cancers) were included. Four latent clusters were identified and named based on their clinical indicator features; (1) high accelerated aging (31.3%), (2) intermediate accelerated aging without poor exercise tolerance (15.1%), (3) intermediate accelerated aging without lack of motivation (27.4%), and (4) low accelerated aging (26.2%). AYAs in the high accelerated aging cluster were more likely to have second cancer (odds ratio: 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.3) compared to the low accelerated aging cluster. AYAs with a higher burden of accelerated aging were more likely to develop a second cancer. Validation of the clinical indicators and how to best capture them is needed to improve (early) detection of AYAs at high risk of developing second cancer.

The Psychosocial Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors in the United States: An Integrative Review.

Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYAs) are uniquely challenged with navigating health care systems during an important developmental phase of life. During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, many people experienced social isolation, mental health symptoms, and schooling and employment changes, which may have affected vulnerable AYA cancer survivors. The purpose of this integrative review is to explore the psychosocial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AYA cancer survivors in the United States. A literature search was conducted in November 2022 using PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases with the following search terms: distress*, depress*, lonel*, anx*, insomnia*, cancer*, neoplasm, COVID-19, coronavirus, young adult, AYA, teen*, and adolescen*. The initial search yielded 468 articles. Inclusion criteria required that studies were conducted in the United States, published in English, with a sample of patients diagnosed with cancer between ages 15 and 39. After review and appraisal of each relevant article, eight were included. Through comparative analysis of eight articles, including qualitative and quantitative studies, three themes emerged: mental health impact, health care impact, and financial impact. Mental health impact included increased anxiety, worsening depression and social isolation, and sleep disturbances. Changes in health care included delays in care, medical cost-coping and benefits of virtual care. Financial difficulties included employment changes and benefits of remote work. The COVID-19 pandemic had an immense impact on the psychosocial health of AYA cancer survivors. It is essential that oncology providers and health care teams consider specific interventions to best serve the psychosocial needs of their AYA patients.

Muscular Endurance Testing May Not Relate To Self-reported Fatigue In Aya Cancer Survivors

Muscular Endurance Testing May Not Relate To Self-reported Fatigue In Aya Cancer Survivors

Current practice patterns for HPV vaccination in AYA cancer survivors: A cross sectional analysis of oncologists (2161)

Current practice patterns for HPV vaccination in AYA cancer survivors: A cross sectional analysis of oncologists (2161)

Socioeconomic Status and Chronic Health Conditions in Asian Survivors of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers.

Purpose: While there are known disparities in socioeconomic status (SES) and health outcomes among racially and ethnically minoritized adolescent and young adult (AYA; ages 15-39 years at diagnosis) cancer survivors compared with White survivors, outcomes in the Asian survivor population are understudied. To better understand the association of an AYA cancer diagnosis with SES and health outcomes within a minoritized population, the current study makes comparisons between individuals of the same race or ethnicity with and without a history of AYA cancer. Methods: Non-Hispanic, Asian AYA cancer survivors and non-Hispanic, Asian age- and sex-matched controls were identified from self-reported data in the National Health Interview Survey (2009-2020). Prevalence of chronic health conditions and socioeconomic factors were compared between groups using chi-square tests. Odds of chronic conditions by SES factors were determined within and between survivors and controls using logistic regression methods. Results: One hundred and thirty-one survivors and 1310 controls were included. Survivors were less likely to be married compared with controls; however, there were no differences in other SES factors examined. Survivors had higher odds of at least one chronic condition diagnosis (odds ratio = 4.17, p < 0.001) compared with controls. Of the chronic conditions assessed, survivors had higher odds of arthritis, pulmonary disease, and hypertension compared with controls. Conclusions: Asian AYA cancer survivors are at increased risk of chronic health conditions compared with Asian individuals without a cancer history. Culturally adapted targeted interventions are needed to improve health outcomes for this population.

Excess risk of chronic health conditions in Black adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.

The US population of adolescent and young adult (age 15-39 years at diagnosis) cancer survivors is growing. Previous studies have identified racial and ethnic disparities in survival and health outcomes in racially minoritized survivors, including Black survivors, compared with White survivors. However, comparisons should be made between those of the same race or ethnicity with and without a history of AYA cancer to fully understand the association of a cancer diagnosis with socioeconomic status (SES) and health outcomes within a minoritized population. Non-Hispanic Black AYA cancer survivors and non-Hispanic Black age- and sex-matched controls were identified from self-reported data from the National Health Interview Survey (2009-2018). SES factors and chronic health conditions prevalence were compared between survivors and controls using chi-square tests. Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to determine odds of chronic conditions by SES factors within and between survivors and controls. Interactions between each variable and cancer group were assessed. A total of 445 survivors and 4450 controls were included. Survivors were less likely than controls to be married, have family income >45K/year, have completed a bachelor's degree or higher, and have private insurance. Survivors had higher odds than controls of having at least one (odds ratio (OR): 7.02, p<0.001) and ≥3 (OR: 4.44, p<0.001) chronic conditions. Survivors had higher odds of each chronic condition assessed including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Survivors had higher odds of having chronic health conditions compared with controls across all SES variables. A cancer diagnosis during adolescence and young adulthood is associated with poor SES outcomes and increased odds of comorbidities within the Black population, thus further exacerbating existing disparities. Black AYA cancer survivors have a very high risk of developing chronic health conditions after cancer treatmentand interventions are needed to improve long-term health outcomes for this population.

Perspectives From Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors for a Planned Nurse-Patient Dyadic Storytelling Intervention.

AYA cancer survivors participated in cross-sectional qualitative interviews to provide feedback on the nurse-patient storytelling intervention model. Qualitative content analysis was used to interpret and categorize the data. Barriers and facilitators of the intervention emerged. Themes related to barriers included (a) the disadvantages of an online program, (b) the limitations of the in-person program, (c) interacting with nurses, (d) sharing personal stories with others, and (e) the timing of the program. Themes regarding facilitators included (a) benefits to AYA with cancer, (b) benefits to nurses, (c) benefits of online/in-person programs, and (d) willingness to participate. Conclusions: AYA with cancer may benefit from the nurse-patient dyadic storytelling intervention. Developing innovative methods to optimize and customize interventions based on preferences is essential. Future research should involve nurse feedback and tailored approaches for AYA with cancer.

Impaired social functioning in adolescent and young adult sarcoma survivors: Prevalence and risk factors.

Sarcomas account for almost 11% of all cancers in adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 18-39years). AYAs are increasingly recognized as a distinct oncological age group with its own psychosocial challenges and biological characteristics. Social functioning has been shown to be one of the most severely affected domains of health-related quality of life in AYA cancer survivors. This study aims to identify AYA sarcoma survivors with impaired social functioning (ISF) and determine clinical and psychosocial factors associated with ISF. AYAs from the population-based cross-sectional sarcoma survivorship study (SURVSARC) were included (n=176). ISF was determined according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 social functioning scale, and age- and sex-matched norm data were used as reference. The median time since diagnosis was 6.2years (range, 1.8-11.2). More than one-quarter (28%) of AYA sarcoma survivors experienced ISF. Older age, higher tumor stage, comorbidities, lower experienced social support, uncertainty in relationships, feeling less attractive, sexual inactivity, unemployment, and financial difficulties were associated with ISF. In a multivariable analysis, unemployment (OR, 3.719; 95% CI, 1.261-10.967) and having to make lifestyle changes because of financial problems caused by one's physical condition or medical treatment (OR, 3.394; 95% CI, 1.118-10.300) were associated with ISF; better experienced social support was associated with non-ISF (OR, 0.739; 95% CI, 0.570-0.957). More than one-quarter of AYA sarcoma survivors experience ISF long after diagnosis. These results emphasize the importance of follow-up care that is not only disease-oriented but also focuses on the psychological and social domains. Sarcomas account for almost 11% of all cancers in adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 18-39years). The AYA group is increasingly recognized as a distinct oncological age group with its own psychosocial challenges and biological characteristics. Social functioning has been shown to be severely affected in AYA cancer survivors. A population-based questionnaire study to identify AYA sarcoma survivors with impaired social functioning (ISF) and determine factors associated with ISF was conducted. More than one-quarter of AYA sarcoma survivors experience ISF long after diagnosis. These results emphasize the importance of follow-up care that is not only disease-orientated but also focuses on the psychological and social domains.

Disparities in physical activity in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors.

There is a growing population of adolescent and young adult (AYA, ages 15-39 at diagnosis) cancer survivors at heightened risk of chronic conditions. Moderate to vigorous physical activity level (MVPA) is an important modifiable factor associated with improved cardiovascular health. Little is known about the association of sociodemographic factors with MVPA in AYA survivors. Self-reported data from the National Health Interview Survey (2009-2018) were used to identify AYA cancer survivors (at least 2years post-diagnosis) and age- and sex-matched controls. MVPA level based on sociodemographic (sex, race and ethnicity, income, education), medical (heart disease, stroke, and diabetes), and cardiovascular risk factors (BMI and smoking) was determined within and between survivors and controls using multivariable linear regression models. A total of 4766 AYA cancer survivors and 47,660 controls were included. Less than half of survivors (41.9%) and controls (43.2%) met MVPA guideline recommendations, and one-third of survivors (33.4%) reported no MVPA. Black race was associated with reduced MVPA compared with White race (ratio: 0.58 (95% CI: 0.37-0.90). Household income < $50,000/year, education < high school, diagnoses of diabetes or heart disease, and current smoking were all significantly associated with reduced MVPA in AYA survivors. There were no differences in MVPA between survivors and controls by sociodemographic factors, medical history, and cardiovascular risk factors. We found disparities in MVPA in AYA cancer survivors by sociodemographic, medical, and cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding trajectories of MVPA among different sociodemographic populations is needed to identify opportunities for intervention.