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Chan LS, Cochon KL, Li TC, Chung JPW, Kim JH. Knowledge and intentions to use fertility preservation among urban Chinese cancer patients: A study from Hong Kong. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307715. [PMID: 39259733 PMCID: PMC11389933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the knowledge levels and fertility preservation (FP) intentions of urban Chinese cancer patients. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on Hong Kong Chinese male and female cancer patients aged 18-54 years (N = 325) who were recruited by a local non-governmental organization for cancer patients between July 2020 to January 2021. Patients completed a self-administered questionnaire on knowledge, perceptions, and intentions to use FP services/seek FP-related information. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the correlates of intention to seek additional FP information and intention to undergo FP treatments. RESULTS Although cancer patients demonstrated a good knowledge of the available FP treatment options, they were less knowledgeable about the legal restrictions of these procedures. Only one in seven cancer patients first became aware of FP through a health provider and the majority of cancer patients felt they did not have adequate knowledge about FP to make informed FP decisions at the current time. Yet, over one-third of cancer patients would consider FP options even if their cancer or cancer treatment had < 5% chance of causing infertility, and 13.4% of females and 14.6% of males would delay their cancer treatment by ≥ 3 months to undergo FP procedures. However, for both sexes, the main perceived barrier to obtaining FP was its financial cost. Patients with older-aged spouses were less likely to seek FP treatments or seek more information about FP. CONCLUSION There is an unmet need for more FP information and FP services for reproductive-aged cancer patients in East Asian populations. Greater integration of FP services into cancer treatment requires a reduction of cost barriers, greater provision of timely FP information, and improved referral systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis S Chan
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Kim L Cochon
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines - Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Tin C Li
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Jacqueline P W Chung
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Jean H Kim
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
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Kasaven LS, Mitra A, Chawla M, Murugesu S, Anson N, Ben Nagi J, Theodorou E, Rimmer MP, Al-Wattar B, Yazbek J, Jones BP, Saso S. A Cross-Sectional Survey of Healthcare Professionals' Knowledge, Attitude and Current Behaviours towards Female Fertility Preservation Services within the UK. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2649. [PMID: 39123377 PMCID: PMC11311658 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16152649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: This study aims to establish the knowledge, attitudes and current behaviours towards female fertility preservation (FP) services amongst healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the UK. (2) Methods: An online survey was advertised publicly on the social media platform Instagram between 25 February 2021 and 11 March 2021. (3) Results: In total, 415 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria and completed the survey. The majority of HCPs discussed FP techniques either never 39.5% (n = 164), once a year 20.7% (n = 86) or once a month 17.8% (n = 74). The majority rated their knowledge of each type of FP method as 'very poor' or 'poor' and strongly disagreed 14.2% (n = 59) or disagreed 42.2% (n = 175) with the statement they 'felt confident to counsel a patient on FP'. The majority either agreed 37.8% (n = 157) or strongly agreed 22.2% (n = 92) that it was their responsibility to discuss FP and 38.1% (n = 158) agreed or strongly agreed 19.5% (n = 81) they considered the desire for future fertility when planning treatment. The majority 87.2% (n = 362) had not experienced formal training on FP. (4) Conclusions: Discrepancies in knowledge remain regarding techniques of FP, referral pathways, awareness of facilities offering services and existing educational resources. Many HCPs recognise the importance of FP and their responsibility to initiate discussions. The knowledge that FP may not delay the treatment of cancer has also improved; however, training in FP is scarce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine S. Kasaven
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- Department of Cutrale Perioperative and Ageing Group, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
- Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK; (J.B.N.)
| | - Anita Mitra
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Mehar Chawla
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
| | - Sughashini Murugesu
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Nicholas Anson
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK; (J.B.N.)
| | - Jara Ben Nagi
- Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK; (J.B.N.)
| | - Efstathios Theodorou
- Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK; (J.B.N.)
| | - Michael P. Rimmer
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK;
| | - Bassel Al-Wattar
- Beginnings Assisted Conception Unit, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Sutton SM5 1AA, UK;
- Clinical Trials Unit, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, UK
| | - Joseph Yazbek
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Benjamin P. Jones
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Srdjan Saso
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK; (A.M.); (M.C.); (S.M.); (N.A.); (J.Y.); (B.P.J.); (S.S.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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Song BB, Anderson ZS, Masjedi AD, Lee MW, Mandelbaum RS, Klar M, Roman LD, Wright JD, Matsuo K. Fertility-Sparing Surgery for Stage I Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 144:68-78. [PMID: 38781594 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe population-level utilization of fertility-sparing surgery and outcome of reproductive-aged patients with early epithelial ovarian cancer who underwent fertility-sparing surgery in the United States. METHODS This retrospective study queried the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result Program. The study included 3,027 patients younger than age 50 years with stage I epithelial ovarian cancer receiving primary surgical therapy from 2007 to 2020. Fertility-sparing surgery was defined as preservation of one ovary and the uterus for unilateral lesion and preservation of the uterus for bilateral lesions. Temporal trend of fertility-sparing surgery was assessed with linear segmented regression with log-transformation. Overall survival associated with fertility-sparing surgery was assessed with Cox proportional hazard regression model. RESULTS A total of 534 patients (17.6%) underwent fertility-sparing surgery. At the cohort level, the utilization of fertility-sparing surgery was 13.4% in 2007 and 21.8% in 2020 ( P for trend=.009). Non-Hispanic White individuals (2.8-fold), those with high-grade serous histology (2.2-fold), and individuals with stage IC disease (2.3-fold) had a more than twofold increase in fertility-sparing surgery utilization during the study period (all P for trend<.05). After controlling for the measured clinicopathologic characteristics, patients who received fertility-sparing surgery had overall survival comparable with that of patients who had nonsparing surgery (5-year rates 93.6% vs 92.1%, adjusted hazard ratio 0.87, 95% CI, 0.57-1.35). This survival association was consistent in high-grade serous (5-year rates 92.9% vs 92.4%), low-grade serous (100% vs 92.2%), clear cell (97.5% vs 86.1%), mucinous (92.1% vs 86.6%), low-grade endometrioid (95.7% vs 97.7%), and mixed (93.3% vs 83.7%) histology (all P >.05). In high-grade endometrioid tumor, fertility-sparing surgery was associated with decreased overall survival (5-year rates 71.9% vs 93.8%, adjusted hazard ratio 2.90, 95% CI, 1.09-7.67). Among bilateral ovarian lesions, fertility-sparing surgery was not associated with overall survival (5-year rates 95.8% vs 92.5%, P =.364). Among 41,914 patients who had epithelial ovarian cancer with any age and stage, those younger than age 50 years with stage I disease increased from 8.6% to 10.9% during the study period ( P for trend=.002). CONCLUSION Nearly one in five reproductive-aged patients with stage I epithelial ovarian cancer underwent fertility-sparing surgery in recent years in the United States. More than 90% of reproductive-aged patients with stage I epithelial ovarian cancer who underwent fertility-sparing surgery were alive at the 5-year timepoint, except for those with high-grade endometrioid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie B Song
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology and the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Freiburg Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany; and the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
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Jorgensen KA, Agusti N, Wu CF, Kanbergs A, Pareja R, Ramirez PT, Rauh-Hain JA, Melamed A. Fertility-sparing surgery vs standard surgery for early-stage cervical cancer: difference in 5-year life expectancy by tumor size. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:663.e1-663.e13. [PMID: 38365097 PMCID: PMC11139552 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer incidence among premenopausal women is rising, and fertility-sparing surgery serves as an important option for this young population. There is a lack of evidence on what tumor size cutoff should be used to define candidacy for fertility-sparing surgery. OBJECTIVE We sought to describe how the association between fertility-sparing surgery (compared with standard surgery) and life expectancy varies by tumor size among patients with cervical cancers measuring ≤4 cm in largest diameter. Our secondary objective was to quantify the probability of undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy among patients who underwent fertility-sparing surgery as a function of tumor size. STUDY DESIGN We identified patients in the National Cancer Database aged ≤45 years, diagnosed with stage I cervical cancer with tumors ≤4 cm between 2006 and 2018, who received no preoperative radiation or chemotherapy, and who underwent either fertility-sparing surgery (cone or trachelectomy, either simple or radical) or standard surgery (simple or radical hysterectomy) as their primary treatment. Propensity-score matching was performed to compare patients who underwent fertility-sparing surgery with those who underwent standard surgery. A flexible parametric model was employed to quantify the difference in life expectancy within 5 years of diagnosis (restricted mean survival time) based on tumor size among patients who underwent fertility-sparing and those who underwent standard surgery. In addition, among those who underwent fertility-sparing surgery, a logistic regression model was used to explore the relationship between tumor size and the probability of receiving adjuvant radiation. RESULTS A total of 11,946 patients met the inclusion criteria of whom 904 (7.6%) underwent fertility-sparing surgery. After propensity-score matching, 897 patients who underwent fertility-sparing surgery were matched 1:1 with those who underwent standard surgery. Although the 5-year life expectancy was similar among patients who had fertility sparing surgery and those who had standard surgery regardless of tumor sizes, the estimates of life-expectancy differences associated with fertility-sparing surgery were more precise among patients with smaller tumors (1-cm tumor: restricted mean survival time difference, -0.10 months; 95% confidence interval, -0.67 to 0.47) than among those with larger tumors (4-cm tumor: restricted mean survival time difference, -0.11 months; 95% confidence interval, -3.79 to 3.57). The probability of receiving adjuvant radiation increased with tumor size, ranging from 5.6% (95% confidence interval, 3.9-7.9) for a 1-cm tumor to 37% (95% confidence interval, 24.3-51.8) for a 4-cm tumor. CONCLUSION Within 5 years of diagnosis, young patients with stage I cancers measuring ≤4 cm had similar survival outcomes after either fertility-sparing surgery or standard surgery. However, because few patients with tumors >2 cm underwent fertility-sparing surgery, a clinically important survival difference could not be excluded in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten A Jorgensen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
| | - Nuria Agusti
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Chi-Fang Wu
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Alexa Kanbergs
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rene Pareja
- Clínica de Oncología Astorga, Medellín, Colombia; Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Pedro T Ramirez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Jose Alejandro Rauh-Hain
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Alexander Melamed
- Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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Laguna JC, Tagliamento M, Lambertini M, Hiznay J, Mezquita L. Tackling Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Young Adults: From Risk Factors and Genetic Susceptibility to Lung Cancer Profile and Outcomes. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e432488. [PMID: 38788188 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_432488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer has traditionally been associated with advanced age; however, its increasing incidence among young adults raises concerning questions regarding its etiology and unique considerations for this population. In contrast to the older population, the onset of lung cancer at younger age may be attributed to a complex interplay of incompletely understood individual susceptibility and prevalent environmental risk factors beyond tobacco smoke exposure, such as radon gas and air pollution, which are widespread globally. Consequently, this leads to distinct clinical and molecular profiles, requiring a tailored approach. Furthermore, a diagnosis of cancer represents a threatening event during the prime years of a young person's life, prompting concern about career development, social aspects, fertility aspirations, and physical independence. This poses significant additional challenges for health care professionals in a field that remains underexplored. This comprehensive review recognizes lung cancer in young adults as a distinct entity, exploring its clinical and molecular characteristics, diverse predisposing factors, and priorities in terms of quality of life, with the aim of providing practical support to oncologists and enhancing our understanding of this under-researched population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Laguna
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Tagliamento
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Matteo Lambertini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Laura Mezquita
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics and Targeted Therapies in Solid Tumors, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Drechsel KCE, IJgosse IM, Slaats S, Raasen L, Stoutjesdijk FS, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Wallace WH, Beishuizen A, Körholz D, Mauz-Körholz C, Cepelova M, Uyttebroeck A, Ronceray L, Kaspers GJL, Broer SL, Veening MA. Fertility-Preserving Treatments and Patient- and Parental Satisfaction on Fertility Counseling in a Cohort of Newly Diagnosed Boys and Girls with Childhood Hodgkin Lymphoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2109. [PMID: 38893227 PMCID: PMC11171249 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of fertility-preserving (FP) treatments and fertility counseling that was offered in a cohort of newly diagnosed children with classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). METHODS In this observational study, boys and girls with cHL aged ≤ 18 years with scheduled treatment according to the EuroNet-PHL-C2 protocol were recruited from 18 sites (5 countries), between January 2017 and September 2021. In 2023, a subset of Dutch participants (aged ≥ 12 years at time of diagnosis) and parents/guardians were surveyed regarding fertility counseling. RESULTS A total of 101 boys and 104 girls were included. Most post-pubertal boys opted for semen cryopreservation pre-treatment (85% of expected). Invasive FP treatments were occasionally chosen for patients at a relatively low risk of fertility based on scheduled alkylating agent exposure (4/5 testicular biopsy, 4/4 oocyte, and 11/11 ovarian tissue cryopreservation). A total of 17 post-menarchal girls (20%) received GnRH-analogue co-treatment. Furthermore, 33/84 parents and 26/63 patients responded to the questionnaire. Most reported receiving fertility counseling (97%/89%). Statements regarding the timing and content of counseling were generally positive. Parents and patients considered fertility counseling important (94%/87% (strongly agreed) and most expressed concerns about (their child's) fertility (at diagnosis 69%/46%, at present: 59%/42%). CONCLUSION Systematic fertility counseling is crucial for all pediatric cHL patients and their families. FP treatment should be considered depending on the anticipated risk and patient factors. We encourage the development of a decision aid for FP in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja C. E. Drechsel
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands (M.A.V.)
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irene M. IJgosse
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie Slaats
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lisanne Raasen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Francis S. Stoutjesdijk
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands (M.A.V.)
| | - Eline van Dulmen-den Broeder
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands (M.A.V.)
| | - W. Hamish Wallace
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Auke Beishuizen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dieter Körholz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Giessen—Zentrum für Kinderheilkunde und Jugendmedizin, Feulgenstr. 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany (C.M.-K.)
| | - Christine Mauz-Körholz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Giessen—Zentrum für Kinderheilkunde und Jugendmedizin, Feulgenstr. 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany (C.M.-K.)
- Clinic for Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty of the Martin-Luther University of Halle, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Michaela Cepelova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Faculty Hospital Motol and 2nd Medical Faculty, Charles University, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Anne Uyttebroeck
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, KU Leuven, UZ Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leila Ronceray
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, St. Anna Children’s Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 6, A-1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Gertjan J. L. Kaspers
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands (M.A.V.)
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Simone L. Broer
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Margreet A. Veening
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands (M.A.V.)
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Rotz SJ, Hamilton BK, Wei W, Ahmed I, Winston SA, Ballard S, Bernard RJ, Carpenter P, Farhadfar N, Ferraro C, Friend BD, Gloude NJ, Hayashi RJ, Hoyle K, Jenssen K, Koo J, Lee CJ, Mariano L, Nawabit R, Ngwube A, Lalefar N, Phelan R, Perkins L, Rao A, Rayes A, Sandheinrich T, Stafford L, Tomlinson K, Whiteside S, Wiedl C, Myers K. Fertility Potential and Gonadal Function in Survivors of Reduced-Intensity Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Transplant Cell Ther 2024; 30:534.e1-534.e13. [PMID: 38342136 PMCID: PMC11056299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
The use of reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens has increased in an effort to minimize hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) end-organ toxicity, including gonadal toxicity. We aimed to describe the incidence of fertility potential and gonadal function impairment in adolescent and young adult survivors of HCT and to identify risk factors (including conditioning intensity) for impairment. We performed a multi-institutional, international retrospective cohort study of patients age 10 to 40 years who underwent first allogeneic HCT before December 1, 2019, and who were alive, in remission, and available for follow-up at 1 to 2 years post-HCT. For females, an AMH level of ≥.5 ng/mL defined preserved fertility potential; an AMH level of ≥.03 ng/mL was considered detectable. Gonadal failure was defined for females as an elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level >30 mIU/mL with an estradiol (E2) level <17 pg/mL or current use of hormone replacement therapy (regardless of specific indication or intent). For males, gonadal failure was defined as an FSH level >10.4 mIU/mL or current use of hormone replacement therapy. A total of 326 patients (147 females) were available for analysis from 17 programs (13 pediatric, 4 adult). At 1 to 2 years post-HCT, 114 females (77.6%) had available FSH and E2 levels and 71 (48.3%) had available AMH levels. FSH levels were reported for 125 males (69.8%). Nearly all female HCT recipients had very low levels of AMH. One of 45 (2.2%) recipients of myeloablative conditioning (MAC) and four of 26 (15.4%) recipients of reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) (P = .06) had an AMH ≥.5 ng/m, and 8 of 45 MAC recipients (17.8%) and 12 of 26 RIC recipients (46.2%) (P = .015) had a detectable AMH level. Total body irradiation (TBI) dose and cyclophosphamide equivalent dose (CED) were not associated with detectable AMH. The incidence of female gonadal hormone failure was 55.3%. In univariate analysis, older age at HCT was associated with greater likelihood of gonadal failure (median age, 17.6 versus 13.9; P < .0001), whereas conditioning intensity (RIC versus MAC), TBI, chronic graft-versus-host disease requiring systemic therapy, and CED were not significantly associated with gonadal function. In multivariable analysis, age remained statistically significant (odds ratio [OR]. 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03 to 1.22) for each year increase; P = .012), Forty-four percent of the males had gonadal failure. In univariate analysis, older age (median, 16.2 years versus 14.4 years; P = .0005) and TBI dose (P = .002) were both associated with gonadal failure, whereas conditioning intensity (RIC versus MAC; P = .06) and CED (P = .07) were not statistically significant. In multivariable analysis, age (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.06-1.27 for each year increase; P = .0016) and TBI ≥600 cGy (OR, 6.23; 95% CI, 2.21 to 19.15; P = .0008) remained significantly associated with gonadal failure. Our data indicate that RIC does not significantly mitigate the risk for gonadal failure in females or males. Age at HCT and (specifically in males) TBI use seem to be independent predictors of post-transplantation gonadal function and fertility status. All patients should receive pre-HCT infertility counseling and be offered appropriate fertility preservation options and be screened post-HCT for gonadal failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth J Rotz
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio; Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
| | - Betty K Hamilton
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Wei Wei
- Quantitate Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ibrahim Ahmed
- Division of Pediatric Hem/Onc and BMT, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Sameeya Ahmed Winston
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Robyn J Bernard
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Nosha Farhadfar
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainsville, Florida
| | - Christina Ferraro
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Brian D Friend
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital; Houston, Texas
| | - Nicholas J Gloude
- MD Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, California
| | - Robert J Hayashi
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kerry Hoyle
- Pediatric Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kari Jenssen
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jane Koo
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Immune Deficiency, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Catherine J Lee
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Livia Mariano
- Serviço de Hematologia, Hemoterapia e Terapia Celular, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rawan Nawabit
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Nahal Lalefar
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, California
| | - Rachel Phelan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Blood and Marrow Transplant, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Laynie Perkins
- Pediatric immunology and Hematopoietic stem cell transplant program, University of Utah/Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | - Ahmad Rayes
- Pediatric immunology and Hematopoietic stem cell transplant program, University of Utah/Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Taryn Sandheinrich
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lauren Stafford
- Pediatric Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Stacy Whiteside
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Christina Wiedl
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kasiani Myers
- Division of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Immune Deficiency, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Landtblom AR, Andersson TML, Johansson ALV, Lundberg FE, Samuelsson J, Björkholm M, Hultcrantz M. Childbirth rates in women with myeloproliferative neoplasms. Leukemia 2024; 38:1081-1085. [PMID: 38461191 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-024-02216-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are associated with inferior pregnancy outcome, however, little is known about fertility and childbearing potential in women with MPN. In this study we aimed to describe reproductive patterns, as well as to quantify risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. Women aged 15-44 years with an MPN diagnosis 1973-2018, were identified in Swedish health care registers, and age-matched 1:4 to population controls. We identified 1141 women with MPN and 4564 controls. Women with MPN had a lower rate of childbirth (hazard ratio [HR] with 95% confidence interval was 0.78 (0.68-0.90)). Subgroup analysis showed that the rate was not significantly reduced in essential thrombocythemia, HR 1.02 (0.86-1.22) while the HR was 0.50 (0.33-0.76) in PV and 0.45 (0.28-0.74) in PMF. The risk of miscarriage was not significantly increased before MPN diagnosis, the HR during follow-up after diagnosis was 1.25 (0.89-1.76). Women with MPN were more likely to have had a previous stillbirth. Women with MPN had fewer children at diagnosis, and fewer children in total. In conclusion, the childbirth rate was lower among women with MPN than controls, but not among women with essential thrombocythemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ravn Landtblom
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Therese M-L Andersson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna L V Johansson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
| | - Frida E Lundberg
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Samuelsson
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Magnus Björkholm
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Malin Hultcrantz
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Myeloma Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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9
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Rashidian P. An update on oncofertility in prepubertal females. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2024; 53:102742. [PMID: 38341083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2024.102742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a life-threatening event for pediatric patients. Treatment advancements in pediatric cancer have improved prognosis, but some of these treatments have gonadotoxic potential and may affect fertility in different ways. Due to the growing interest of the research community in the life prospects of young cancer survivors, there has been a demand to intersect reproductive medicine and oncology, which is referred to as "oncofertility". There are various fertility preservation options according to gender and pubertal status, and shared decisions must take place at the time of diagnosis. This study aims to provide a critical review of current and emerging strategies for preserving and restoring fertility in prepubertal females, ranging from established methods to experimental approaches that can be offered before, during, and after anticancer therapies. Additionally, the author aims to review how clinicians' awareness of oncofertility options and the latest advancements in this field, timely referral, and proper consultations with patients and their families are vital in addressing their concerns, providing emotional support, and guiding them through the decision-making process, as well as potential barriers that may hinder the fertility preservation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pegah Rashidian
- Reproductive Health Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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10
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Johnson A, McClurg AB, Baldino J, Das R, Carey ET. Fertility preservation choices and decisional regret after gender-affirming surgery in transgender men or gender nonbinary persons. F S Rep 2024; 5:87-94. [PMID: 38524213 PMCID: PMC10958706 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the prevalence of decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices after gender-affirming surgery or removal of reproductive organs. Design Cross-sectional. Setting University-based pratice. Patients A total of 57 survey respondents identifying as transgender men or gender nonbinary with a history of gender-affirming surgery or removal of reproductive organs between 2014 and 2023 with the University of North Carolina Minimally Invasive Gynecology division. Intervention Survey or questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures The prevalence and severity of decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices were measured with the use of the validated decisional regret scale (DRS) (scored 0-100). Secondary outcomes included patient-reported barriers to pursuing reproductive endocrinology and infertility consultation and fertility preservation treatment. Results The survey response rate was 50.9% (57/112). "Mild" to "severe" decisional regret was reported by 38.6% (n = 22) of survey respondents, with DRS scores among all respondents ranging from 0-85. Higher median DRS scores were associated with patient-reported inadequacy of preoperative fertility counseling regarding implications of surgery on future fertility or family-building (0 vs. 50) and fertility preservation options (0 vs. 12.5). No desire for future fertility at the time of fertility counseling was the most frequent reason (68.4%) for declining a referral to reproductive endocrinology and infertility for additional fertility preservation discussion. Conclusions Decisional regret regarding preoperative fertility preservation choices is experienced among transgender men or gender nonbinary persons after gender-affirming surgery or the removal of reproductive organs. Preoperative, patient-centered fertility counseling and fertility preservation treatments should be provided to reduce the risk of future regret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Asha B. McClurg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Janine Baldino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rajeshree Das
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Erin T. Carey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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11
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Mannion S, Higgins A, Larson N, Stewart EA, Khan Z, Shenoy C, Nichols HB, Su HI, Partridge AH, Loprinzi CL, Couch F, Olson JE, Ruddy KJ. Prevalence and impact of fertility concerns in young women with breast cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4418. [PMID: 38388636 PMCID: PMC10884010 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54961-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Survey data from the Mayo Clinic Breast Disease Registry were used to assess fertility counseling and fertility preservation strategies in a modern cohort of young women with breast cancer. One hundred respondents were identified who were under age 50 at the time of breast cancer diagnosis and who expressed interest in future childbearing near the time of diagnosis and/or 1 year later. Ninety-three percent of the 81 respondents to the year one survey recalled fertility counseling prior to cancer treatment. Most who reported a high level of fertility concern declared that this concern had impacted their treatment decisions, often shortening their planned duration of endocrine therapy. Approximately half had taken steps to preserve future fertility, and a third had used a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist either alone or combined with another method (e.g., embryo or oocyte cryopreservation).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandra Higgins
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Nicole Larson
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | | | - Zaraq Khan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Chandra Shenoy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Hazel B Nichols
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - H Irene Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ann H Partridge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles L Loprinzi
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Fergus Couch
- Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Janet E Olson
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kathryn J Ruddy
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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12
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Burns K, Loren AW. Fertility Preservation in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: A Case-Based Review. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:725-734. [PMID: 37976452 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.01616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology patients are unique in many aspects of their care; fertility preservation (FP) is one of the most complex to address. In addition to the newly diagnosed AYA patient, there are growing numbers of AYA survivors of childhood cancer who present with concerns about their fertility. Emerging independence, emotional and intellectual growth, and development of an adult mindset are hallmarks of the AYA population; these transitions heighten the intrinsic medical, social, and financial challenges of a cancer diagnosis. FP is extraordinarily important in AYA oncology and can be addressed in many ways: experimental options as well as standard of care, with key differences on the basis of pubertal development, cancer diagnosis, and urgency of cancer-directed therapy. Options exist both at diagnosis and throughout the survivorship journey. It is imperative that oncologists recognize the challenges in this age group, as well as opportunities to pursue FP. The field has evolved significantly in the past 25 years and will continue to evolve as we incorporate more immune-based and targeted therapies into our treatment regimens. This case-based review will explore opportunities to preserve fertility in this unique patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Burns
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Alison W Loren
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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13
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Lehmann V, Vlooswijk C, van der Graaf WTA, Bijlsma R, Kaal SEJ, Kerst JM, Tromp JM, Bos MEMM, van der Hulle T, Lalisang RI, Nuver J, Kouwenhoven MCM, Lok CAR, Beerendonk CCM, Dinkelman-Smit M, Husson O. Pre-treatment fertility preservation and post-treatment reproduction in long-term survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01538-x. [PMID: 38316726 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01538-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe recall of fertility-related consultations and cryopreservation and to examine reproductive goals and reproduction post-treatment in long-term survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) (age, 18-39 years) cancer. METHODS This study included n = 1457 male and n = 2112 female long-term survivors (Mage = 43-45 years; 5-22 years from diagnosis) who provided self-report. Clinical data were supplied by the Netherlands Cancer Registry. RESULTS Most male survivors (72.7%) recalled fertility-related consultations and 22.6% completed sperm cryopreservation. Younger age (OR = 2.8; 95%CI [2.2-3.6]), not having children (OR = 5.0; 95%CI [3.2-7.7]), testicular cancer or lymphoma/leukemia (OR = 2.8/2.5 relative to "others"), and more intense treatments (OR = 1.5; 95%CI [1.1-2.0]) were associated with higher cryopreservation rates. Time since diagnosis had no effect. Of men who cryopreserved, 12.1% utilized assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Most men (88.5%) felt their diagnosis did not affect their reproductive goals, but 7.6% wanted no (additional) children due to cancer. Half of female survivors (55.4%; n = 1171) recalled fertility-related consultations. Rates of cryopreservation were very low (3.6%), but increased after 2013 when oocyte cryopreservation became non-experimental. Of women who cryopreserved, 13.2% successfully utilized ART. Most women (74.8%) experienced no effects of cancer on reproductive goals, but 17.8% wanted no (additional) children due to cancer. CONCLUSIONS Cryopreservation in men varied by patient/clinical factors and was very low in women, but data of more recently treated females are needed. Utilizing cryopreserved material through ART was rare, which questions its cost-effectiveness, but it may enhance survivors' well-being. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The extent to which cryopreservation positively affects survivors' well-being remains to be tested. Moreover, effects of cancer on reproductive goals require further attention, especially in women who refrain from having children due to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Lehmann
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Cancer Center Amsterdam (CCA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Carla Vlooswijk
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rhodé Bijlsma
- Department of Medical Oncology, UMC Utrecht Cancer Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne E J Kaal
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Martijn Kerst
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline M Tromp
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique E M M Bos
- Department of Medical Oncology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom van der Hulle
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roy I Lalisang
- Department of Internal Medicine, GROW-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht UMC, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Janine Nuver
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde C M Kouwenhoven
- Cancer Center Amsterdam (CCA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christianne A R Lok
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Center Gynaecologic Oncology Amsterdam, Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina C M Beerendonk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marij Dinkelman-Smit
- Department of Urology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, ErasmusMC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Pathak S, Vadaparampil ST, Sutter ME, Rice WS, McBride CM. Evaluating fertility preservation interventions for alignment with ASCO Guidelines for reproductive aged women undergoing cancer treatment: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:689. [PMID: 37950073 PMCID: PMC10638151 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08133-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE While cancer treatment advancements have increased the number of reproductive-aged women survivors, they can harm reproductive function. Despite national guidelines, oncofertility service uptake remains low. This review explores interventions for fertility preservation alignment with American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines and consideration of a multilevel framework. METHODS We systematically reviewed literature from 2006 to 2022 across four databases. Identified interventions were assessed and scored for quality based on CONSORT and TREND statement checklists. Results were synthesized to assess for intervention alignment with ASCO guidelines and four multilevel intervention framework characteristics: targeted levels of influence, conceptual clarity, methodologic pragmatism, and sustainability. RESULTS Of 407 articles identified, this review includes nine unique interventions. The average quality score was 7.7 out of 11. No intervention was guided by theory. Per ASCO guidelines, most (n=8) interventions included provider-led discussions of treatment-impaired fertility. Fewer noted discussions on fertility preservation approaches (n=5) and specified discussion timing (n=4). Most (n=8) referred patients to reproductive specialists, and few (n=2) included psychosocial service referrals. Most (n=8) were multilevel, with five targeting three levels of influence. Despite targeting multiple levels, all analyses were conducted at the individual level. Intervention strategies included: educational components (n=5), decision aids (n=2), and nurse navigators (n=2). Five interventions considered stakeholders' views. All interventions were implemented in real-world contexts, and only three discussed sustainability. CONCLUSIONS This review identifies key gaps in ASCO guideline-concordant fertility preservation that could be filled by updating and adhering to standardized clinical practice guidelines and considering multilevel implementation frameworks elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarita Pathak
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Susan T Vadaparampil
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Megan E Sutter
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Whitney S Rice
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Research in the Southeast, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Colleen M McBride
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
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15
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Landay SL, Burns JA, Bickle ML, Baltich Nelson B, Nipp RD. Fertility preservation in reproductive-aged female patients with colorectal cancer: a scoping review. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:612. [PMID: 37796328 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08081-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in adults younger than 50 years is steadily increasing in the USA, and treatment for CRC can impact future fertility. However, fertility decision-making in female patients with CRC can be complex, with fertility preservation (FP) counseling occurring inconsistently. PURPOSE The goal of this scoping review was to assess the literature regarding the frequency and quality of fertility preservation (FP) discussions taking place among oncology clinicians and their reproductive-age female patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) in order to identify existing gaps in care and inform future research, interventions, or potential changes in practice. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the Ovid Medline, PsycInfo, and Scopus databases in order to identify studies pertaining to FP counseling in reproductive-age female patients with CRC. We used Covidence to screen studies for relevance and to extract data. Findings of interest included rate of fertility and/or FP discussions, patient characteristics associated with fertility discussions, initiators of discussions, rate of referrals to fertility specialists, patient utilization of FP services, and unmet fertility needs. We performed both quantitative and qualitative data synthesis. RESULTS We identified five studies that met our inclusion criteria, all published between 2007 and 2022. Frequency of fertility counseling discussions was low across studies, with a range of 15 to 52.5% of female patients with CRC receiving counseling. Patient characteristics which may be associated with likelihood of fertility discussion included age, parity, number of children, cancer location and stage, treatment type, and quality of life. The literature suggested that fertility discussions were initiated by clinicians about two-thirds of the time, and medical oncologists were the clinicians most likely to initiate. Studies did capture unmet fertility-related patient needs; participants who did not receive counseling often expressed desire for these discussions and regret that they did not occur. CONCLUSION Despite increasing incidence of CRC in patients at younger ages, this scoping review found a dearth of research conducted on young female CRC patients' experiences with fertility counseling and referrals. Notably, the existing research reveals that relatively few of these patients are receiving appropriate counseling. Additional research is needed to clarify current FP counseling practices, patient and clinician perceptions about FP, and ways to improve the quantity and quality of FP counseling in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia L Landay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jamie A Burns
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lenox Hill Hospital-Northwell Health, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, NY, USA
| | - Madison L Bickle
- OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | - Ryan D Nipp
- OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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16
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Kawasaki Y, Hirai K, Nii M, Kizawa Y, Uchinuno A. Actual situation of decision-making support from medical staff when cancer patients make treatment choices. Future Oncol 2023; 19:2263-2272. [PMID: 37905530 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We investigated factors involved in decision-making support provided by physicians, nurses, pharmacists and medical and psychiatric social workers involved in cancer care. Materials & methods: A questionnaire survey on decision-making support was conducted. The level of clinician support was classified as 'supporting patients' 'decision-making process regarding cancer treatment', 'no support for patients' 'decision-making process regarding cancer treatment' or 'team-based support for patients' 'decision-making process regarding cancer treatment'. Results: Physicians estimated that 83.7% of patients made a cancer treatment decision within 1 week, but 45.4% of patients had difficulty making a decision. Conclusion: Medical personnel should support patients who have difficulty making decisions, establish a screening method to identify those needing support and develop a system providing decision-making support through interprofessional work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kawasaki
- College of Nursing Art & Science, University of Hyogo, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kei Hirai
- Osaka University Graduate School of Human Sciences, Suita, Japan
| | - Manabu Nii
- Department of Electronics & Computer Science, University of Hyogo, Himeji, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kizawa
- Department of Palliative & Supportive Care, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Atsuko Uchinuno
- Faculty of Nursing, Tsuruga Nursing University, Tsuruga, Japan
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17
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Schlossman J, Vu M, Samborski A, Breit K, Thevenet-Morrison K, Wilbur M. Identifying barriers individuals face in accessing fertility care after a gynecologic cancer diagnosis. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2023; 49:101267. [PMID: 37719177 PMCID: PMC10502349 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2023.101267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To (1) identify the major barriers premenopausal individuals face in accessing fertility care at the time of gynecologic cancer diagnosis and (2) to assess patient experiences pertaining to fertility. Methods We distributed an online survey about cancer diagnosis and fertility goals to patients ages 18-40 who had been treated for ovarian, endometrial, or cervical cancer at a single, large academic hospital. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey results. Patients who completed the survey were given the option to participate in a follow-up virtual interview. We conducted semi-structured interviews to discuss their fertility goals and barriers to these. Grounded theory was used to qualitatively analyze the interviews. Results Fifty-five patients completed the survey, and 20 patients participated in the interview. The median age at diagnosis was 32 years old. Seventy-three percent of patients recalled that at the time of their diagnosis they were considering future childbearing, and 32% underwent fertility preservation. Patients reported the emotional response to their diagnosis as a barrier to receiving fertility care, with patients reporting lack of control (80%), shock (55%), and confusion (45%). Patients also identified inadequate counseling (60.0%), lack of time (60.0%), economic constraints (55.0%) and prioritization of cancer treatment (55.0%) as barriers. Nearly all patients had a positive interview experience and expressed desire to help patients in similar situations. Conclusion Many premenopausal patients diagnosed with gynecologic malignancies are considering future childbearing at the time of diagnosis. Both logistical and emotional barriers prevent them from undergoing fertility preservation before initiating oncologic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Schlossman
- University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Michelle Vu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Alexandra Samborski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Karolina Breit
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, United States
| | - Kelly Thevenet-Morrison
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, United States
| | - MaryAnn Wilbur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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18
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Miquel L, Liotta J, Hours A, Bottin P, Castel P, Perrin J, Guillemain C, Courbiere B. Feasibility and efficiency of delayed ovarian stimulation and metaphase II oocyte banking for fertility preservation and childbearing desire after fertility-impairing treatment. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15661. [PMID: 37730827 PMCID: PMC10511488 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42583-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of delayed ovarian stimulation and metaphase II oocyte banking for fertility preservation after fertility-impairing treatment regardless of the initial disease. We conducted a cohort study based on population of women < 40 years of age with diminished ovarian reserve caused by fertility-impairing treatment (n = 129). Three groups of women were compared according to the type of initial disease: hematological malignancies, solid tumors, and benign diseases. The primary endpoint was the number of metaphase II oocytes collected per woman. We studied the cumulative live-birth rate per cycle with fertilized metaphase II oocyte, for women who wanted to conceive. We studied 245 delayed controlled ovarian stimulation cycles in 129 women: 201 for fertility preservation and 44 for in vitro fertilization and fresh embryo transfers. The number of metaphase II oocytes collected per woman after banking was similar in the three groups, with a mean of 10.7 ± 4.6, 12.3 ± 9.1, and 10.1 ± 7.6 metaphase II oocytes (p = 0.46), respectively. In the subgroup of women who wanted to conceive, the cumulative live birth rate per woman was 38%, with 8 live births for these 21 women. After fertility-impairing treatment, practitioners should discuss a fertility preservation procedure for banking metaphase II oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Miquel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Pôle femmes parents enfants, AP-HM, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France.
| | - Julie Liotta
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Pôle femmes parents enfants, AP-HM, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Alice Hours
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Pôle femmes parents enfants, AP-HM, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Pauline Bottin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Pôle femmes parents enfants, AP-HM, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Castel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Pôle femmes parents enfants, AP-HM, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Jeanne Perrin
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, Avignon Université, IMBE, 13397, Marseille, France
| | | | - Blandine Courbiere
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, IRD, Avignon Université, IMBE, 13397, Marseille, France
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19
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Stukaite-Ruibiene E, van der Perk MEM, Vaitkeviciene GE, Bos AME, Bumbuliene Z, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Rascon J. Evaluation of oncofertility care in childhood cancer patients: the EU-Horizon 2020 twinning project TREL initiative. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1212711. [PMID: 37565239 PMCID: PMC10411952 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1212711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The 5-year survival rate of childhood cancer exceeds 80%, however, many survivors develop late effects including infertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current status of oncofertility care at Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (VULSK) within the framework of the EU-Horizon 2020 TREL project. Methods All parents or patients aged 12-17.9 years treated from July 1, 2021 until July 1, 2022 were invited to complete an oncofertility-care-evaluation questionnaire. After completing the questionnaire, patients were triaged to low-risk (LR) or high-risk (HR) of gonadal damage using a risk stratification tool (triage). Data was assessed using descriptive statistics. Results Questionnaires were completed by 48 parents and 13 children triaged as 36 (59%) LR and 25 (41%) HR patients. Most HR respondents (21/25, 84%) were not counseled by a fertility specialist. Six boys (4 HR, 2 LR) were counseled, none of the girls was counseled. Three HR boys underwent sperm cryopreservation. Only 17 (27.9%, 9 HR, 8 LR) respondents correctly estimated their risk. All counseled boys (n = 6) agreed the risk for fertility impairment had been mentioned as compared to 49.1% (n = 27) of uncounseled. All counseled respondents agreed they knew enough about fertility (vs. 42%). Conclusions Respondents counseled by a fertility specialist were provided more information on fertility than uncounseled. HR patients were not sufficiently counseled by a fertility specialist. Based on the current experience oncofertility care at VULSK will be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Goda Elizabeta Vaitkeviciene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Zana Bumbuliene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Jelena Rascon
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
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20
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Hanna MT, Handa N, Laronda MM, Rowell EE. Efficacy of Video-based Education in Improving Understanding of Pediatric Fertility Preservation. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2023; 45:e487-e495. [PMID: 36716087 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Eighty percent of children diagnosed with cancer in childhood survive into adulthood. Fertility preservation (FP) is an important consideration, and procedures are available to reduce the risk of infertility following gonadotoxic therapies. Discussing FP options eases decision-making and minimizes regret; however, poor comprehension of these topics remains a challenge. This study evaluates if video-based educational tools increase understanding of FP options among pediatric patients and families. Videos were first tested among participants not at risk of infertility to ensure objective utility and optimize quality. In part 1, parents of pediatric surgical patients were randomized to view 2 publicly available educational videos on FP in differing orders. Each group completed pre-surveys and post-surveys assessing the comprehension and perception of video quality. In part 2, the parent and patient participants completed a comprehension assessment before and after viewing our institution-specific educational video, designed based on participant feedback from part 1. Part 1 results demonstrated a significant increase in participant knowledge and perceived understanding after viewing the videos ( P <0.001), regardless of order. In part 2, the post-test comprehension scores were significantly improved for all participants and all subgroups, P <0.01. Results suggest that video-based educational tools may help to reduce barriers to FP in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria T Hanna
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
| | - Nicole Handa
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
| | - Monica M Laronda
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Chicago, IL
| | - Erin E Rowell
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
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21
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Reynolds AC, McKenzie LJ. Cancer Treatment-Related Ovarian Dysfunction in Women of Childbearing Potential: Management and Fertility Preservation Options. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:2281-2292. [PMID: 36888938 PMCID: PMC10115556 DOI: 10.1200/jco.22.01885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the complex concerns of oncofertility created through increased cancer survivorship and the long-term effects of cancer treatment in young adults. DESIGN Review chemotherapy-induced ovarian dysfunction, outline how fertility may be addressed before treatment initiation, and discuss barriers to oncofertility treatment and guidelines for oncologists to provide this care to their patients. CONCLUSION In women of childbearing potential, ovarian dysfunction resulting from cancer therapy has profound short- and long-term implications. Ovarian dysfunction can manifest as menstrual abnormalities, hot flashes, night sweats, impaired fertility, and in the long term, increased cardiovascular risk, bone mineral density loss, and cognitive deficits. The risk of ovarian dysfunction varies between drug classes, number of received lines of therapy, chemotherapy dosage, patient age, and baseline fertility status. Currently, there is no standard clinical practice to evaluate patients for their risk of developing ovarian dysfunction with systemic therapy or means to address hormonal fluctuations during treatment. This review provides a clinical guide to obtain a baseline fertility assessment and facilitate fertility preservation discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurie J. McKenzie
- Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Houston, TX
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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22
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Frederick NN, Klosky JL, Meacham L, Quinn GP, Kelvin JF, Cherven B, Freyer DR, Dvorak CC, Brackett J, Ahmed-Winston S, Bryson E, Su HI, Chow EJ, Levine J. Fertility Preservation Practices at Pediatric Oncology Institutions in the United States: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e550-e558. [PMID: 36763922 PMCID: PMC10113112 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Fertility discussions are an integral part of comprehensive care for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients newly diagnosed with cancer and are supported by national guidelines. Current institutional practices are poorly understood. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 220 Children's Oncology Group member institutions regarding fertility discussion practices. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. The association between specific practices and selected outcomes on the basis of sex was examined via multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS One hundred forty-four programs (65.5%) returned surveys. Of these, 65 (45.1%) reported routine discussions of fertility with all female patients and 55 (38.5%) all male patients (P = .25). Ninety-two (63.8%) reported no specific criteria for offering females fertility preservation (FP), compared with 40 (27.7%) for males (P < .001). Program characteristics associated with fertility discussions included reproductive endocrinology and infertility on site (females odds ratio [OR], 2.1; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.3), discussion documentation mandate (females OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.0 to 5.5; males OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.4 to 8.7), and cumulative institution-based FP infrastructure (which included [1] routine practice of documentation, [2] template for documentation, [3] mandate for documentation, and [4] availability of FP navigation; females OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.3; males OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.6 to 3.4). Utilization of practices unsupported by guidelines included offering sperm banking after treatment initiation (39/135 programs; 28.9%), gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs for ovarian suppression/FP (75/144 programs; 52.1%), ovarian tissue cryopreservation at diagnosis for patients with leukemia (19/64 programs; 29.7%), and testicular tissue cryopreservation (23/138 programs; 16.7%) not part of a clinical trial. CONCLUSION Despite recommended guidelines, fertility discussions with patients/families before treatment initiation are not routine at Children's Oncology Group institutions. Standard criteria to determine which options should be offered to patients are more common for males than females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha N. Frederick
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT
| | - James L. Klosky
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lillian Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Division of Medical Ethics, Departments of OB-GYN, Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY
| | | | - Brooke Cherven
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - David R. Freyer
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, CA
- USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Christopher C. Dvorak
- Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Julienne Brackett
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Houston, TX
| | | | - Elyse Bryson
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - H. Irene Su
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA
| | - Eric J. Chow
- Clinical Research and Public Health Sciences Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Jennifer Levine
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
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23
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Bolton VN, Hayden C, Robinson M, Abdo D, Pericleous-Smith A. Human oocyte cryopreservation: revised evidence for practice. HUM FERTIL 2023:1-15. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2190987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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24
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Qin N, Wan Z, Kang Y, Luo Y, Duan Y, Xie J, Cheng AS. Effectiveness and feasibility of online fertility preservation decision aids for young female patients with cancer: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070294. [PMID: 36940948 PMCID: PMC10030757 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer diagnosis and treatment can impair fertility, and younger female patients with cancer have a particularly strong need for fertility preservation. Fertility preservation decision aids are thought to help patients make proactive and informed treatment decisions. This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of online fertility preservation decision aids for young female patients with cancer. METHODS AND ANALYSIS PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO and CHINAL, along with three grey literature sources (Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform), will be searched from each database's establishment to 30 November 2022. Two trained reviewers will independently screen the articles, and the data extraction and methodological quality of eligible randomised controlled trials and quasiexperimental studies will be assessed. A meta-analysis will be performed using Review Manager V.5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration) software, and heterogeneity will be assessed using I² statistics. If a meta-analysis is not possible, a narrative synthesis will be done. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Since this systematic review is based on published data, no ethical approval is required. The study's findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022363287.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qin
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyu Wan
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yue Kang
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yating Luo
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yinglong Duan
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianfei Xie
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Andy Sk Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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25
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Chung EH, Mebane S, Harris BS, White E, Acharya KS. Oncofertility research pitfall? Recall bias in young adult cancer survivors. F S Rep 2023; 4:98-103. [PMID: 36959952 PMCID: PMC10028472 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess recall bias by evaluating how well female cancer survivors remember details regarding their cancer diagnosis, treatment, and fertility preservation (FP) counseling.Oncofertility literature cites recall bias as a pitfall of retrospective surveys, but limited data exist to quantify this bias. Design Retrospective secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data. Setting Single academic medical center. Patients Female oncology patients of reproductive age, 18-44 years old, at least 6 months past their last chemotherapy treatment. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Recall of details surrounding cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy regimens, recall of FP counseling and ovarian reserve testing, and rates of chart-documented FP counseling. Results In total, 117 patients completed the survey, with 112 verified via chart review. When asked to report the chemotherapy regimen, 57% (64 of the 112) marked "I don't know/prefer not to say." Regarding FP, 80% (90 of the 112) denied being offered counseling. Of the 37 (33%) who had documented FP conversations, 13 (35%) did not recall mention of fertility. Only 2 of 8 patients with ovarian reserve testing recalled this being performed at their initial visit. Multivariable logistic regression revealed older age was significantly associated with not being offered FP (odds ratio [OR] 0.87). Conclusions Our results confirm that the accuracy of oncology patients' reporting is limited by a poor recall, particularly regarding their specific chemotherapy regimen. More than 1 in 3 patients documented to have been offered FP counseling do not recall this discussion. Importantly, only one-third of cancer survivors had chart-documented FP counseling. Increased efforts are needed to ensure adequate follow-up beyond the initial visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther H. Chung
- Stanford Fertility and Reproductive Health Services, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Sunnyvale
- Reprint requests: Esther H. Chung, M.D., Stanford Fertility and Reproductive Health Services, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Sunnyvale, 1195 W. Fremont Ave, Sunnyvale, California 94087.
| | - Sloane Mebane
- Duke Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Benjamin S. Harris
- Shady Grove Fertility, Jones Institute, Eastern Virginal Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Erin White
- Duke Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Kelly S. Acharya
- Stanford Fertility and Reproductive Health Services, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Sunnyvale
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Jorgensen K, Meernik C, Wu CF, Murphy CC, Baker VL, Jarmon P, Brady PC, Nitecki R, Nichols HB, Rauh-Hain JA. Disparities in Fertility-Sparing Treatment and Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology After a Diagnosis of Cervical, Ovarian, or Endometrial Cancer. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:341-353. [PMID: 36649345 PMCID: PMC9858239 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the presence of sociodemographic and clinical disparities in fertility-sparing treatment and assisted reproductive technology (ART) use among patients with a history of cervical, endometrial, or ovarian cancer. METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study of patients aged 18-45 years who were diagnosed with cervical cancer (stage IA, IB), endometrial cancer (grade 1, stage IA, IB), or ovarian cancer (stage IA, IC) between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2015, using linked data from the CCR (California Cancer Registry), the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. The primary outcome was receipt of fertility-sparing treatment , defined as surgical or medical treatment to preserve the uterus and at least one ovary. The secondary outcome was fertility preservation , defined as ART use after cancer diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios and 95% CIs for the association between fertility-sparing treatment and exposures of interest: age at diagnosis, race and ethnicity, health insurance, socioeconomic status, rurality, and parity. RESULTS We identified 7,736 patients who were diagnosed with cervical, endometrial, or ovarian cancer with eligible histology. There were 850 (18.8%) fertility-sparing procedures among 4,521 cases of cervical cancer, 108 (7.2%) among 1,504 cases of endometrial cancer, and 741 (43.3%) among 1,711 cases of ovarian cancer. Analyses demonstrated nonuniform patterns of sociodemographic disparities by cancer type for fertility-sparing treatment, and ART. Fertility-sparing treatment was more likely among young patients, overall, and of those in racial and ethnic minority groups among survivors of cervical and ovarian cancer. Use of ART was low (n=52) and was associated with a non-Hispanic White race and ethnicity designation, being of younger age (18-35 years), and having private insurance. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that clinical and sociodemographic disparities exist in the receipt of fertility-sparing treatment and ART use among patients with a history of cervical, endometrial, or ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Jorgensen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine and the Department of Health Services Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas; the Department of Public Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina; the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana; the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York; and the Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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27
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Baek SY, Lee KH, Kim SB, Gomez H, Vidaurre T, Park YH, Ahn HK, Kim YS, Park IH, Ahn SG, Lee J, Jeong JH, Kim S, Kim HJ. Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward fertility preservation in patients with breast cancer: A cross-sectional survey of physicians. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1109694. [PMID: 36756160 PMCID: PMC9899882 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1109694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fertility is an important issue for young women with breast cancer, but studies about physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward fertility preservation (FP) are largely based on Western populations and do not reflect recent international guidelines for FP. In this international study, we aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians from South Korea, other Asian countries, and Latin America toward FP in young women with breast cancer, and identify the related barriers. Methods The survey was conducted anonymously among physicians from South Korea, other Asian countries, and Latin America involved in breast cancer care between November 2020 and July 2021. Topics included knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions toward FP; practice behaviors; barriers; and participant demographics. We grouped related questions around two main themes-discussion with patients about FP, and consultation and referral to a reproductive endocrinologist. We analyzed the relationships between main questions and other survey items. Results A total of 151 physicians completed the survey. Most participants' overall knowledge about FP was good. More than half of the participants answered that they discussed FP with their patients in most cases, but that personnel to facilitate discussions about FP and the provision of educational materials were limited. A major barrier was time constraints in the clinic (52.6%). Discussion, consultations, and referrals were more likely to be performed by surgeons who primarily treated patients with operable breast cancer (FP discussion odds ratio [OR]: 2.90; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24-6.79; FP consultation and referral OR: 2.98; 95% CI: 1.14-7.74). Participants' knowledge and attitudes about FP were significantly associated with discussion, consultations, and referrals. Conclusion Physicians from South Korea, other Asian countries, and Latin America are knowledgeable about FP and most perform practice behaviors toward FP well. Physicians' knowledge and favorable attitudes are significantly related to discussion with patients, as well as consultation with and referral to reproductive endocrinologists. However, there are also barriers, such as limitations to human resources and materials, suggesting a need for a systematic approach to improve FP for young women with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Yeon Baek
- Department of Surgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Hun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Bae Kim
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Henry Gomez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Tatiana Vidaurre
- Department of Medical Oncology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Yeon Hee Park
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kyung Ahn
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo Seok Kim
- Department of Surgery, Chosun University College of Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - In Hae Park
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Gwe Ahn
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeeyeon Lee
- Department of Surgery, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ho Jeong
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seonok Kim
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Kim
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea,*Correspondence: Hee Jeong Kim,
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28
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Meernik C, Poole C, Engel SM, Rauh-Hain JA, Luke B, Nichols HB. Outcomes after assisted reproductive technology in women with cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:30-45. [PMID: 36342891 PMCID: PMC9825268 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the associations between a history of cancer and outcomes after ART? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared to women without cancer, on average, women with cancer had a lower return for embryo transfer and a lower likelihood of clinical pregnancy and live birth after ART. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Small, single-institution studies have suggested that cancer and its treatment may negatively affect ART outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis of studies comparing ART outcomes between women with and without cancer. PubMed, Embase and Scopus were searched for original, English-language studies published up to June 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Inclusion criteria required reporting of ART outcomes after controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) among women with a history of cancer compared to women without cancer who used ART for any indication. Outcomes of interest ranged from duration of COS to likelihood of live birth after embryo transfer. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate mean differences and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs and 95% prediction intervals (PIs). We assessed heterogeneity by age-adjustment, referent group indication for ART, study location and among women with breast cancer and women who initiated ART before cancer treatment. We used visual inspection, Egger's test and the trim-and-fill method to assess funnel plot asymmetry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of 6094 unique records identified, 42 studies met inclusion criteria, representing a median per study of 58 women with cancer (interquartile range (IQR) = 159) and 114 women without cancer (IQR = 348). Compared to women without cancer, on average, women with cancer had a lower return for embryo transfer (OR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.74; 95% PI: 0.00, 64.98); lower likelihood of clinical pregnancy (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.35, 0.73; 95% PI: 0.19, 1.35); and lower likelihood of live birth (OR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.38, 0.83; 95% PI: 0.19, 1.69). Substantial among-study heterogeneity was observed for COS duration, gonadotropin dose, cycle cancellation, total oocytes and mature oocytes. Fertilization percentage showed less heterogeneity, but study-specific estimates were imprecise. Similarly, number of embryos showed less heterogeneity, and most studies estimated minimal differences by cancer history. Funnel plot asymmetry was observed for estradiol peak and oocyte maturation percentage. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Appreciable confounding is possible in 11 studies that lacked adequate control for group differences in age, and among-study heterogeneity was observed for most outcomes. Lack of data limited our ability to assess how cancer clinical factors (e.g. cancers other than breast, cancer stage and treatment) and ART cycle characteristics (e.g. fresh versus frozen embryo transfers and use of gestational carriers) may affect outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Women with cancer may be less likely to achieve pregnancy and live birth after embryo transfer. Further examination of reproductive outcomes and sources of heterogeneity among studies is warranted to improve evidence of the expected success of ART after a cancer diagnosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported in part by R01 CA211093 and P30 ES010126. C.M. was supported by the University of North Carolina Lineberger Cancer Control Education Program (T32 CA057726) and the National Cancer Institute (F31 CA260787). J.A.R.-H. was supported by the National Cancer Institute (K08 CA234333, P30 CA016672). J.A.R.-H. reports receiving consulting fees from Schlesinger Group and Guidepoint. The remaining authors declare no competing interests. REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Meernik
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles Poole
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie M Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - J Alejandro Rauh-Hain
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Barbara Luke
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Hazel B Nichols
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Ciccarone M, Cavaceppi P, Tesei C, Brunetti S, Pulsoni A, Annibali O, Gasparoli C, Battistini R, Hohaus S, Pelliccia S, Tafuri A, Cox MC, Cantonetti M, Rigacci L, Abruzzese E. Effects of ABVD chemotherapy on ovarian function: epidemiology, hormonal dosages and ultrasound morphologic analyses in 270 patients with Hodgkin's disease. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1059393. [PMID: 37152067 PMCID: PMC10160490 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1059393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) is a lymphoproliferative disease typically diagnosed in the young. The excellent results obtained with current treatment lead to long survival with age-related complications affecting patients' survival and quality of life. One issue affecting HL patients is infertility. This problem can be easily overcome in males with seminal liquid cryopreservation, however, in females it is more complex either in terms of the quality of the cryopreserved material or the patients' age at diagnosis. Moreover, not all chemo- or radio-therapies have the same negative impact on fertility.The main objectives of this study was to collect epidemiological information on HL patients involved in fertility preservation counseling and to analyze the impact of ABVD (adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine), the standard treatment for HL, on ovarian function, hormonal levels and ovarian and uterine tissue morphologies. Patterns of fertility preservation were also reported. Methods Data were obtained from 270 female patients at HL onset who were interested in fertility counseling prior to therapy initiation. Each patient was assessed at HL diagnosis for levels of Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and 17β-oestradiol (17β-oe), with additional assessments at 6 and 12 months after chemotherapy. Patients were evaluated with ultrasound scans to study the number of ovarian follicles and the degree of uterine thickness at the same timepoints. Results The average patient AMH level showed a statistically significant reduction at 6 months after chemotherapy (p=0.05) and by the 12 month time point returned to near pre-chemotherapy values. FSH and 17β-oe levels did not significantly vary throughout the study period. ABVD chemotherapy was associated with a significant reduction of both ovarian follicles and endometrial thickness at the 6 month time point followed by a recovery at the 12 time point in both ovaries. Different results were observed when patients changed treatment to a more intensive one. Discussion Based on the results from the hormonal measurements and the follicle echography, it appears that the toxic effect of ABVD on fertility is transient, whereas, in contrast, more intensive therapies may potentially be more harmful and long-lasting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariavita Ciccarone
- Associazione Gemme Dormienti Organizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONLUS), Rome, Italy
- Gynecologic Unit , San Carlo di Nancy Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Cavaceppi
- Associazione Gemme Dormienti Organizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONLUS), Rome, Italy
- LabAurelia, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Tesei
- Associazione Gemme Dormienti Organizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONLUS), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Brunetti
- Associazione Gemme Dormienti Organizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONLUS), Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pulsoni
- Department of Cellular Biotechnology and Haematology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Ombretta Annibali
- UOC Haematology Stem Cell Transplantation, University Campus Bio Medico, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Battistini
- UOC Ematologia e Trapianti CSE, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) San Camillo Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefan Hohaus
- Policlinico Gemelli Foundation, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Pelliccia
- Haematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera‐ Universitaria Sant’Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Agostino Tafuri
- Haematology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera‐ Universitaria Sant’Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Rigacci
- UOC Ematologia e Trapianti CSE, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) San Camillo Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Abruzzese
- Hematology, S. Eugenio Hospital, Tor Vergata University, ASL Roma2, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elisabetta Abruzzese,
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30
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Murphy CC, Betts AC, Allicock MA, Shay LA, Preston SM, Cohn BA, Lupo PJ, Pruitt SL. Stillbirth After Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer: A Population-Based Study. J Natl Cancer Inst 2022; 114:1674-1680. [PMID: 36029247 PMCID: PMC9745431 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djac168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotoxic effects of cancer treatment may increase risk of adverse birth outcomes in adolescent and young adult (AYA, aged 15-39 years) women diagnosed with cancer. We estimated risk of stillbirth (fetal death of gestational age ≥20 weeks or weighing ≥350 grams) in a population-based sample of AYA women. METHODS AYA women diagnosed with cancer between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2015, were identified using the Texas Cancer Registry and linked to live birth and fetal death certificates through December 31, 2016. Among AYA women, cumulative incidence of stillbirth was estimated by gestational age, and Poisson regression models identified factors associated with stillbirth. Standardized fetal mortality ratios (SMR) compared the observed fetal mortality rate in AYA women with the expected fetal mortality rate in the general population. RESULTS A total of 11 628 live births and 68 stillbirths occurred to 8402 AYA women after diagnosis. Cumulative incidence of stillbirth in AYA women was 0.70% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.51% to 0.96%) at 40 weeks of gestation. Risk of stillbirth was higher among Hispanic (risk ratio [RR] = 2.64, 95% CI = 1.29 to 5.41) and non-Hispanic Black (RR = 4.13, 95% CI = 1.68 to 10.16) women compared with non-Hispanic White women; there was no association with receipt of chemotherapy or time since diagnosis. Age- and race and ethnicity-adjusted fetal mortality rate in AYA women was similar to the general population (SMR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.77 to 1.26). CONCLUSIONS AYA women may be counseled that overall risk of stillbirth is low, and for most, cancer does not appear to confer additional risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin C Murphy
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrea C Betts
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health School of Public Health, Dallas Regional Campus, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Marlyn A Allicock
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health School of Public Health, Dallas Regional Campus, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - L Aubree Shay
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health School of Public Health, San Antonio Regional Campus, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sharice M Preston
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Center for Pediatric Population Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Barbara A Cohn
- Child Health and Development Studies, Public Health Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Philip J Lupo
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sandi L Pruitt
- Department of Population & Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Jorgensen K, Nitecki R, Nichols HB, Fu S, Wu CF, Melamed A, Brady P, Chavez Mac Gregor M, Clapp MA, Giordano S, Rauh-Hain JA. Obstetric and Neonatal Outcomes 1 or More Years After a Diagnosis of Breast Cancer. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 140:939-949. [PMID: 36357983 PMCID: PMC9712170 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate obstetric and neonatal outcomes of the first live birth conceived 1 or more years after breast cancer diagnosis. METHODS We performed a population-based study to compare live births between women with a history of breast cancer (case group) and matched women with no cancer history (control group). Individuals in the case and control groups were identified using linked data from the California Cancer Registry and California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development data sets. Individuals in the case group were diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer at age 18-45 years between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2012, and conceived 12 or more months after breast cancer diagnosis. Individuals in the control group were covariate-matched women without a history of breast cancer who delivered during 2000-2012. The primary outcome was preterm birth at less than 37 weeks of gestation. Secondary outcomes were preterm birth at less than 32 weeks of gestation, small for gestational age (SGA), cesarean delivery, severe maternal morbidity, and neonatal morbidity. Subgroup analyses were used to assess the effect of time from initial treatment to fertilization and receipt of additional adjuvant therapy before pregnancy on outcomes of interest. RESULTS Of 30,021 women aged 18-45 years diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer during 2000-2012, 553 met the study inclusion criteria. Those with a history of breast cancer and matched women in the control group had similar odds of preterm birth at less than 37 weeks of gestation (odds ratio [OR], 1.29; 95% CI 0.95-1.74), preterm birth at less than 32 weeks of gestation (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.34-1.79), delivering an SGA neonate (less than the 5th percentile: OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.35-1.03; less than the 10th percentile: OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.68-1.30), and experiencing severe maternal morbidity (OR 1.61; 95% CI 0.74-3.50). Patients with a history of breast cancer had higher odds of undergoing cesarean delivery (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.03-1.53); however, their offspring did not have increased odds of neonatal morbidity compared with women in the control group (OR 1.15; 95% CI 0.81-1.62). CONCLUSION Breast cancer 1 or more years before fertilization was not strongly associated with obstetric and neonatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Jorgensen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, the Department of Breast Oncology, the Department of Health Services Research, and the Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas; the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, and the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York; and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Graham M, McKenzie H, Lamaro Haintz G, Dennis C. Who do Australian women seek social support from during the reproductive decision-making process? HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e4028-e4040. [PMID: 35302266 PMCID: PMC10078729 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Limited evidence exists about women's experiences of social support for reproductive decision-making, particularly who women seek social support from during decision-making. Using a concurrent mixed methods approach, this research explored who women aged 25-35 years living in Victoria, Australia, seek social support from during reproductive decision-making. Women seek social support for reproductive decision-making from multiple sources. However, through exploring women's support seeking for reproductive decision-making, rather than once a reproductive decision had been made, the study highlights the nuanced and contextual nature of support seeking for reproductive decision-making demonstrating support seeking is influenced by: type of reproductive decision; women's relationships with members of their social network; previous experiences of support seeking for reproductive decisions; expectations of the support they would receive; homophily; and temporality. This research provides important insight into who women seek support from for reproductive decision-making. Understanding this will help inform future social and public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Graham
- School of Psychology and Public HealthDepartment of Public HealthLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Hayley McKenzie
- School of Health and Social DevelopmentDeakin UniversityBurwoodVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Carly Dennis
- School of Health and Social DevelopmentDeakin UniversityBurwoodVictoriaAustralia
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Han J, Park S, Kim SH. Supporting decision‐making regarding fertility preservation in patients with cancer: An integrative review. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13748. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeehee Han
- Red Cross College of Nursing Chung‐Ang University Seoul Korea
| | - Sangwoo Park
- Severance Hospital Yonsei University Health System Seoul Korea
| | - Sung Hae Kim
- Department of Nursing, College of Health, Welfare and Education Tongmyong University Busan Korea
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Rives N, Courbière B, Almont T, Kassab D, Berger C, Grynberg M, Papaxanthos A, Decanter C, Elefant E, Dhedin N, Barraud-Lange V, Béranger MC, Demoor-Goldschmidt C, Frédérique N, Bergère M, Gabrel L, Duperray M, Vermel C, Hoog-Labouret N, Pibarot M, Provansal M, Quéro L, Lejeune H, Methorst C, Saias J, Véronique-Baudin J, Giscard d'Estaing S, Farsi F, Poirot C, Huyghe É. What should be done in terms of fertility preservation for patients with cancer? The French 2021 guidelines. Eur J Cancer 2022; 173:146-166. [PMID: 35932626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide practice guidelines about fertility preservation (FP) in oncology. METHODS We selected 400 articles after a PubMed review of the literature (1987-2019). RECOMMENDATIONS Any child, adolescent and adult of reproductive age should be informed about the risk of treatment gonadotoxicity. In women, systematically proposed FP counselling between 15 and 38 years of age in case of treatment including bifunctional alkylating agents, above 6 g/m2 cyclophosphamide equivalent dose (CED), and for radiation doses on the ovaries ≥3 Gy. For postmenarchal patients, oocyte cryopreservation after ovarian stimulation is the first-line FP technique. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation should be discussed as a first-line approach in case of treatment with a high gonadotoxic risk, when chemotherapy has already started and in urgent cases. Ovarian transposition is to be discussed prior to pelvic radiotherapy involving a high risk of premature ovarian failure. For prepubertal girls, ovarian tissue cryopreservation should be proposed in the case of treatment with a high gonadotoxic risk. In pubertal males, sperm cryopreservation must be systematically offered to any male who is to undergo cancer treatment, regardless of toxicity. Testicular tissue cryopreservation must be proposed in males unable to cryopreserve sperm who are to undergo a treatment with intermediate or severe risk of gonadotoxicity. In prepubertal boys, testicular tissue preservation is: - recommended for chemotherapy with a CED ≥7500 mg/m2 or radiotherapy ≥3 Gy on both testicles. - proposed for chemotherapy with a CED ≥5.000 mg/m2 or radiotherapy ≥2 Gy. If several possible strategies, the ultimate choice is made by the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Team "Adrenal and Gonadal Physiopathology" Inserm U1239 Nordic, Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, Rouen, France
| | - Blandine Courbière
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Thierry Almont
- Cancerology, Urology, Hematology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France; General Cancer Registry of Martinique UF1441, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France
| | - Diana Kassab
- Methodology Unit, Association Française d'Urologie, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
| | - Claire Berger
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University-Hospital of Saint-Etienne, Hospital, Nord Saint-Etienne cedex 02, France 42055; Childhood Cancer Registry of the Rhône-Alpes Region, University of Saint-Etienne, 15 rue Ambroise Paré, Saint-Etienne cedex 02, France 42023
| | - Michaël Grynberg
- Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Department, Hôpital Antoine-Beclère, Clamart, Île-de-France, France
| | - Aline Papaxanthos
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, Aquitaine, France
| | - Christine Decanter
- Medically Assisted Procreation and Fertility Preservation Department, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Lille, Lille, Hauts-de-France, France
| | - Elisabeth Elefant
- Reference Center for Teratogenic Agents, Hôpital Armand-Trousseau Centre de Référence sur les Agents Tératogènes, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Nathalie Dhedin
- Adolescents and Young Adults Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Virginie Barraud-Lange
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | | | | | - Nicollet Frédérique
- Information and Promotion Department, Association Laurette Fugain, Paris, France
| | - Marianne Bergère
- Human Reproduction, Embryology and Genetics Directorate, Agence de la biomédecine, La Plaine Saint-Denis, France
| | - Lydie Gabrel
- Good Practices Unit - Guidelines and Medicines Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Marianne Duperray
- Guidelines and Drug Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Christine Vermel
- Expertise Quality and Compliance Mission - Communication and Information Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Natalie Hoog-Labouret
- Research and Innovation, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Michèle Pibarot
- OncoPaca-Corse Regional Cancer Network, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Magali Provansal
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Laurent Quéro
- Cancerology and Radiotherapy Department, Hôpital Saint Louis, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Lejeune
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Charlotte Methorst
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Centre Hospitalier des Quatre Villes - Site de Saint-Cloud, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - Jacqueline Saias
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Jacqueline Véronique-Baudin
- Cancerology, Urology, Hematology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France; General Cancer Registry of Martinique UF1441, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France
| | - Sandrine Giscard d'Estaing
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Fadila Farsi
- Regional Cancer Network, Réseau Espace Santé Cancer, Lyon, Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Catherine Poirot
- Adolescents and Young Adults Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Éric Huyghe
- Urology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Laboratoire Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité et Environnement (DEFE) UMR 1203, Université Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.
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Rauh-Hain JA, Zubizarreta J, Nitecki R, Melamed A, Fu S, Jorgensen K, Brady PC, Baker VL, Chavez-MacGregor M, Giordano SH, Keating NL. Survival outcomes following pregnancy or assisted reproductive technologies after breast cancer: A population-based study. Cancer 2022; 128:3243-3253. [PMID: 35767282 PMCID: PMC9378486 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study sought to determine the impact of pregnancy or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) on breast-cancer-specific survival among breast cancer survivors. METHODS The authors performed a cohort study using a novel data linkage from the California Cancer Registry, the California birth cohort, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System data sets. They performed risk-set matching in women with stages I-III breast cancer diagnosed between 2000 and 2012. For each pregnant woman, comparable women who were not pregnant at that point but were otherwise similar based on observed characteristics were matched at the time of pregnancy. After matching, Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of pregnancy with breast-cancer-specific survival. We repeated these analyses for women who received ART. RESULTS Among 30,021 women with breast cancer, 553 had a pregnancy and 189 attempted at least one cycle of ART. In Cox proportional hazards modeling, the pregnancy group had a higher 5-year disease-specific survival rate; 95.6% in the pregnancy group and 90.6% in the nonpregnant group (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.24-0.77). In women with hormone receptor-positive cancer, we found similar results (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.2-0.91). In the ART analysis, there was no difference in survival between groups; the 5-year disease-specific survival rate was 96.9% in the ART group and 94.1% in the non-ART group (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.17-1.13). CONCLUSION Pregnancy and ART are not associated with worse survival in women with breast cancer. LAY SUMMARY We sought to determine the impact of pregnancy or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) among breast cancer survivors. We performed a study of 30,021 women by linking available data from California and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System. For each pregnant woman, we matched at the time of pregnancy comparable women who were not pregnant at that point but were otherwise similar based on observed characteristics. We repeated these analyses for women who received ART. We found that pregnancy and ART were not associated with worse survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Alejandro Rauh-Hain
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jose Zubizarreta
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Roni Nitecki
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alexander Melamed
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shuangshuang Fu
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kirsten Jorgensen
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Paula C Brady
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Valerie L Baker
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mariana Chavez-MacGregor
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sharon H Giordano
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nancy L Keating
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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van den Berg M, Kaal SEJ, Schuurman TN, Braat DDM, Mandigers CMPW, Tol J, Tromp JM, van der Vorst MJDL, Beerendonk CCM, Hermens RPMG. Quality of integrated female oncofertility care is suboptimal: A patient-reported measurement. Cancer Med 2022; 12:2691-2701. [PMID: 36031940 PMCID: PMC9939180 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical practice guidelines recommend to inform female cancer patients about their infertility risks due to cancer treatment. Unfortunately, it seems that guideline adherence is suboptimal. In order to improve quality of integrated female oncofertility care, a systematic assessment of current practice is necessary. METHODS A multicenter cross-sectional survey study in which a set of systematically developed quality indicators was processed, was conducted among female cancer patients (diagnosed in 2016/2017). These indicators represented all domains in oncofertility care; risk communication, referral, counseling, and decision-making. Indicator scores were calculated, and determinants were assessed by multilevel multivariate analyses. RESULTS One hundred twenty-one out of 344 female cancer patients participated. Eight out of 11 indicators scored below 90% adherence. Of all patients, 72.7% was informed about their infertility, 51.2% was offered a referral, with 18.8% all aspects were discussed in counseling, and 35.5% received written and/or digital information. Patient's age, strength of wish to conceive, time before cancer treatment, and type of healthcare provider significantly influenced the scores of three indicators. CONCLUSIONS Current quality of female oncofertility care is far from optimal. Therefore, improvement is needed. To achieve this, improvement strategies that are tailored to the identified determinants and to guideline-specific barriers should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle van den Berg
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenthe Netherlands
| | - Suzanne E. J. Kaal
- Department of Medical OncologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenthe Netherlands,Dutch AYA ‘Young and Cancer’ Care NetworkIKNLUtrechtthe Netherlands
| | - Teska N. Schuurman
- Center for Gynecologic Oncology AmsterdamThe Netherlands Cancer Institute‐Antoni van Leeuwenhoek HospitalAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Didi D. M. Braat
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenthe Netherlands
| | | | - Jolien Tol
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jeroen Bosch HospitalDen BoschThe Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline M. Tromp
- Dutch AYA ‘Young and Cancer’ Care NetworkIKNLUtrechtthe Netherlands,Department of Medical OncologyAmsterdam University Medical CenterAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Sparidaens EM, Beerendonk CCM, Fleischer K, Nelen WLDM, Braat DDM, Hermens RPMG. Exploration of fertility and early menopause related information needs and development of online information for young breast cancer survivors. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:329. [PMID: 35922784 PMCID: PMC9351061 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01901-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately half of premenopausal women diagnosed with breast cancer desire to conceive after they finish treatment. Counseling about the risk of infertility prior to cancer treatment has been proven to improve quality of life after cancer treatment. As a result of this, guidelines focus on informing women on this topic prior to treatment. However, it is equally important to provide fertility related information after primary treatment has been completed, when the wish to conceive might become actual. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the fertility and early menopause related information needs of young breast cancer survivors and to design, develop and implement online information material with input of stakeholders. METHODS A phenomenological qualitative study consisting of four phases was performed: identification of information needs through semi-structured interviews from a professional perspective (1) and a patient perspective (2). Exploration of stakeholders perspective regarding development and implementation of online information material (3) and development and implementation of the information material (4). RESULTS Professionals indicated that there are no guidelines regarding the provision of fertility related information during cancer survivorship. Survivors reported unmet information needs. Women identified the following as most important information needs (a) fertility preservation options, (b) the risk of menopause or infertility, and (c) long term consequences of early menopause. A wide range of stakeholders involved in breast cancer care were interviewed. Based on their proposed design the information material was implemented on a nationwide website aiming at informing and supporting breast cancer patients. CONCLUSIONS Fertility and early menopause related information needs of young breast cancer survivors and their professionals were identified. Information material has been designed, developed and nationally implemented. This way, professionals in breast cancer care are provided with an information tool that helps them meet the information needs and preferences of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Marie Sparidaens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Catharina C M Beerendonk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kathrin Fleischer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Willianne L D M Nelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Didi D M Braat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rosella P M G Hermens
- Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare (IQ Healthcare), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Wang M, Zhu L, Xiong H, Wang J, Li Z, Yang L, Jin L, Xi Q. Lack of Knowledge, the main Stumbling Block of Fertility Preservation Promotion in China. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2022; 37:739-747. [PMID: 32920747 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01875-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate fertility preservation (FP) popularization in China among female cancer patients in terms of awareness of fertility, knowledge about FP, and attitudes toward FP. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among female cancer patients in Tongji Hospital in China from March 2019 to July 2019. The 29 fertility-related issues, which were presented in either five-point Likert scales or "yes or no", in this questionnaire consisted of demographic characteristic and disease-related situation, awareness of fertility, knowledge about FP, and attitudes toward FP. Participants were required to finish the questionnaire, and data were gathered and analyzed by SPSS. Forty-five valid questionnaires without missing data remained in the final analysis. The survey discovered that a regional imbalanced limitation in knowledge of infertility risk and FP in young cancer patients acted as a major obstacle in FP promotion nationwide and FP decision-making in patients. Compared with rural patients, patients from urban areas were more eager to give birth and more likely to have a better understanding of FP with a more positive attitude. Moreover, most of the participants (62.2%) had a low level of understanding of FP, although they remained positive toward it. "Cancer treatment as the priority", "Cancer relapse caused by FP", and "Health of the next generation" were the top three factors affecting decisions on FP. The findings revealed a general FP actuality in China and specifically offered some intervention targets in the near future to improve FP service and networks, benefiting more female patients of childbearing age who are at risk of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua Xiong
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Qingsong Xi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Fertility Preservation for Transgender Males. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:1012-1017. [DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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40
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Meernik C, Mersereau JE, Baggett CD, Engel SM, Moy LM, Cannizzaro NT, Peavey M, Kushi LH, Chao CR, Nichols HB. Fertility Preservation and Financial Hardship among Adolescent and Young Adult Women with Cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022; 31:1043-1051. [PMID: 35506248 PMCID: PMC9074091 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-21-1305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial hardship among adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer who receive gonadotoxic treatments may be exacerbated by the use of fertility services. This study examined whether AYA women with cancer who used fertility preservation had increased financial hardship. METHODS AYA women with cancer in North Carolina and California completed a survey in 2018-2019. Cancer-related financial hardship was compared between women who cryopreserved oocytes or embryos for fertility preservation after cancer diagnosis (n = 65) and women who received gonadotoxic treatment and reported discussing fertility with their provider, but did not use fertility preservation (n = 491). Multivariable log-binomial regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Women were a median age of 33 years at diagnosis and 7 years from diagnosis at the time of survey. Women who used fertility preservation were primarily ages 25 to 34 years at diagnosis (65%), non-Hispanic White (72%), and had at least a Bachelor's degree (85%). In adjusted analysis, use of fertility preservation was associated with 1.50 times the prevalence of material financial hardship (95% CI: 1.08-2.09). The magnitude of hardship was also substantially higher among women who used fertility preservation: 12% reported debt of ≥$25,000 versus 5% in the referent group. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new evidence that cryopreserving oocytes or embryos after cancer diagnosis for future family building is associated with increased financial vulnerability. IMPACT More legislation that mandates insurance coverage to mitigate hardships stemming from iatrogenic infertility could improve access to fertility preservation for young women with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Meernik
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer E. Mersereau
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christopher D. Baggett
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie M. Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lisa M. Moy
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Nancy T. Cannizzaro
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Mary Peavey
- Atlantic Reproductive Medicine Associates, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence H. Kushi
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Chun R. Chao
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Hazel B. Nichols
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Ren Y. Effect Evaluation of Mental Nursing in Nursing of Young Cancer Patients Based on Big Data. Front Public Health 2022; 10:888183. [PMID: 35570897 PMCID: PMC9099006 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.888183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of mental health nursing has always been special, dynamic, and flexible in terms of enhancing individuals' quality of life. Mental health nursing is all about caring for individuals with mental health disorders with the aim of helping them recover from illness, thereby improving their living conditions. Health Education of mental nursing emphasizes on providing special care to patients and optimally fulfills the clinical outcomes of the patients. It has been widely accepted that mental illness negatively influences the well-being of individuals, irrespective of their age, origin, demography, social status, and economic status. Young patients diagnosed with cancer report that they have a poor quality of life, as they undergo several physical and psychological needs, especially after the surgery and other cancer-related treatments. Thus, this study aims to examine the effect of mental health nursing on nursing young patients with cancer, based on the big data. Thus, the study conducts longitudinal analysis of the data gathered from the young patients with cancer, monitored by mental health nurse, with advanced practice nurse (APN) interventions. Results of the study stated that APN interventions positively impacted the physical as well as psychological needs of the research subjects. Mental nursing interventions resulted in positive clinical outcomes of the patients.
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42
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Mahmood S, Drakeley A, Homburg R, Bambang K. Fertility Preservation in Female Patients with Cancer. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2022; 34:508-513. [PMID: 35491364 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Advances in cancer treatment with resultant dramatic improvements in long-term survival have led to increasing awareness of the wide range of medical and social issues faced by survivors of malignancy. The potential deleterious effects on fertility are a significant worry of women and trans gender men, and the rising trend in delaying childbearing and the higher proportion of patients who have not completed their family at the time of diagnosis increases the demand for an optimised fertility-preservation service. Fertility preservation for this group following a diagnosis of cancer is a rapidly expanding area of reproductive medicine, although provision for such treatment often varies by region. In the past, there were few treatment options, but with dramatic improvements in oocyte cryopreservation and, more recently, ovarian tissue cryopreservation, this area of fertility care has broadened substantially. This review will be exploring areas that apply to all cisgender women, but not necessarily all trans men and non-binary individuals. There are specific considerations in fertility preservation for trans people, which are beyond the scope of this paper. All individuals with female reproductive organs should be offered the opportunity to discuss fertility preservation prior to starting potential gonadotoxic treatment. Failure to do this may negatively influence their anticancer treatment choices and adherence to treatment regimens. There are currently few networks streamlined around offering this service and as demand for these treatment options increases, it is recognised that these complex patients require specialist management within recognised care pathways. Here we are looking to describe some of the unique challenges associated with providing a state-of-the-art service, particularly in a financially unpredictable climate in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mahmood
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.
| | - A Drakeley
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - R Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Centre, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - K Bambang
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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van der Perk MEM, Stukaitė-Ruibienė E, Bumbulienė Ž, Vaitkevičienė GE, Bos AME, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Rascon J. Development of a questionnaire to evaluate female fertility care in pediatric oncology, a TREL initiative. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:450. [PMID: 35468746 PMCID: PMC9036799 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09450-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Currently the five-year survival of childhood cancer is up to 80% due to improved treatment modalities. However, the majority of childhood cancer survivors develop late effects including infertility. Survivors describe infertility as an important and life-altering late effect. Fertility preservation options are becoming available to pre- and postpubertal patients diagnosed with childhood cancer and fertility care is now an important aspect in cancer treatment. The use of fertility preservation options depends on the quality of counseling on this important and delicate issue. The aim of this manuscript is to present a questionnaire to determine the impact of fertility counseling in patients suffering from childhood cancer, to improve fertility care and evaluate what patients and their parents or guardians consider good fertility care. Methods Within the framework of the EU-Horizon 2020 TREL project, a fertility care evaluation questionnaire used in the Netherlands was made applicable for international multi-center use. The questionnaire to be used at least also in Lithuania, incorporates patients’ views on fertility care to further improve the quality of fertility care and counseling. Results evaluate fertility care and will be used to improve current fertility care in a national specialized pediatric oncology center in the Netherlands and a pediatric oncology center in Lithuania. Conclusion An oncofertility-care-evaluation questionnaire has been developed for pediatric oncology patients and their families specifically. Results of this questionnaire may contribute to enhancement of fertility care in pediatric oncology in wider settings and thus improve quality of life of childhood cancer patients and survivors. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09450-2.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Žana Bumbulienė
- Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.,Center of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Goda Elizabeta Vaitkevičienė
- Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.,Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Annelies M E Bos
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jelena Rascon
- Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania.,Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
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44
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Theroux CI, Elliott V, Davis S, Crerand CE, Kremen J, Tishelman A, Hutaff-Lee C, Nahata L. Fertility Counseling Practices for Patients with Turner Syndrome in Pediatric Endocrine Clinics: Results of a Pediatric Endocrine Society Survey. Horm Res Paediatr 2022; 95:321-330. [PMID: 35413716 PMCID: PMC9529777 DOI: 10.1159/000524573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with a high risk of primary ovarian insufficiency. Current guidelines recommend early fertility counseling for affected youth and their families. This study assessed clinical providers' (MD, NP, or PA) fertility counseling practices for girls with TS. METHODS TS providers were invited to complete a survey via the Pediatric Endocrine Society listserv. Descriptive statistics summarized variables of interest. Correlations were used to identify associations between barriers/practice characteristics and fertility preservation (FP) referral. Thematic analysis was used to examine qualitative responses. RESULTS 119 providers completed the survey. Seventy percent reported discussing fertility implications of TS routinely in pediatric care. Fifty-six percent reported often or always referring patients with spontaneous menarche to FP specialists, whereas only 19% reported often or always referring their patients without spontaneous menarche (p < 0.001). Barriers associated with FP referral frequency included unfamiliarity with FP options, belief that FP is not a possible goal for their patients, and absence of a local reproductive endocrinologist. Qualitatively, four referral barrier themes were identified: (1) questionable utility of referral, (2) lack of perceived interest among patients/families, (3) provider barriers (e.g., lack of knowledge), (4) logistical/structural barriers to accessing fertility-related care. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION Pediatric endocrinology providers report inconsistently discussing fertility implications of TS. The frequency of referral to an FP specialist and factors/barriers affecting the decision to refer remain variable. Future research should focus on expanding provider education, addressing barriers to high-quality fertility counseling and referral for patients with TS, and investigating FP outcomes in TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charleen I. Theroux
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Victoria Elliott
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- eXtraOrdinary Kids Turner Syndrome Clinic, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shanlee Davis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- eXtraOrdinary Kids Turner Syndrome Clinic, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Canice E. Crerand
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jessica Kremen
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy Tishelman
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christa Hutaff-Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- eXtraOrdinary Kids Turner Syndrome Clinic, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Leena Nahata
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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Kumar P, Rao S, Mundkur A, Adiga P, Poojari VG, Ullagaddi RK. Random Start Ovarian Stimulation. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:200-203. [PMID: 35928466 PMCID: PMC9345281 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_172_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is emerging in recent years as an important option for various indications many of which being for cancer patients and for certain benign conditions as well. In the present case report, we set out to utilise the same protocol, however, for different indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shubha Rao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjali Mundkur
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Prashanth Adiga
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Vidyashree G Poojari
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Rashmi K Ullagaddi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, MAHE University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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van der Perk MEM, Cost NG, Bos AME, Brannigan R, Chowdhury T, Davidoff AM, Daw NC, Dome JS, Ehrlich P, Graf N, Geller J, Kalapurakal J, Kieran K, Malek M, McAleer MF, Mullen E, Pater L, Polanco A, Romao R, Saltzman AF, Walz AL, Woods AD, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Fernandez CV. White paper: Onco-fertility in pediatric patients with Wilms tumor. Int J Cancer 2022; 151:843-858. [PMID: 35342935 PMCID: PMC9541948 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The survival of childhood Wilms tumor is currently around 90%, with many survivors reaching reproductive age. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are established risk factors for gonadal damage and are used in both COG and SIOP Wilms tumor treatment protocols. The risk of infertility in Wilms tumor patients is low but increases with intensification of treatment including the use of alkylating agents, whole abdominal radiation or radiotherapy to the pelvis. Both COG and SIOP protocols aim to limit the use of gonadotoxic treatment, but unfortunately this cannot be avoided in all patients. Infertility is considered one of the most important late effects of childhood cancer treatment by patients and their families. Thus, timely discussion of gonadal damage risk and fertility preservation options is important. Additionally, irrespective of the choice for preservation, consultation with a fertility preservation (FP) team is associated with decreased patient and family regret and better quality of life. Current guidelines recommend early discussion of the impact of therapy on potential fertility. Since most patients with Wilms tumors are prepubertal, potential FP methods for this group are still considered experimental. There are no proven methods for FP for prepubertal males (testicular biopsy for cryopreservation is experimental), and there is just a single option for prepubertal females (ovarian tissue cryopreservation), posing both technical and ethical challenges. Identification of genetic markers of susceptibility to gonadotoxic therapy may help to stratify patient risk of gonadal damage and identify patients most likely to benefit from FP methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas G Cost
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Colorado School of Medicine and the Surgical Oncology Program of the Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Annelies M E Bos
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Robert Brannigan
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tanzina Chowdhury
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrew M Davidoff
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, USA
| | - Najat C Daw
- Department of Pediatrics - Patient Care, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Dome
- Division of Oncology at Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Peter Ehrlich
- University of Michigan, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital Section of Pediatric Surgery, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Norbert Graf
- Department for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - James Geller
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - John Kalapurakal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kathleen Kieran
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, and Division of Urology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, USA
| | - Marcus Malek
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Mary F McAleer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mullen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Children's Hospital Boston/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luke Pater
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Angela Polanco
- National Cancer Research Institute Children's Group Consumer Representative, London, UK
| | - Rodrigo Romao
- Departments of Surgery and Urology, IWK Health Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | | | - Amy L Walz
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, Neuro-Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplant, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Andrew D Woods
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Conrad V Fernandez
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, IWK Health Centre and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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Zaami S, Stark M, Signore F, Gullo G, Marinelli E. Fertility preservation in female cancer sufferers: (only) a moral obligation? EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2022; 27:335-340. [PMID: 35297279 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2022.2045936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advances in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics have thankfully led to high numbers of young cancer survivors, although some interventions may sometimes threaten fertility. The authors aimed to assess how evidence-based oncofertility counselling can be adequately fulfilled for the sake of female cancer patients, in light of its complexities and multidisciplinary nature, which require thorough counselling and consent pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search has been conducted in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE and Google Scholar via search strings such as fertility preservation, reproductive counselling, oncofertility, cancer survivors, in order to identify relevant meaningful sources spanning the 2010-2021 period. RESULTS Counselling needs to be implemented in compliance with international guidelines, so as to avoid medicolegal repercussions. Albeit fertility preservation is supported by most health care institutions, actual conditions at health care facilities often reflect several lingering difficulties in the oncofertility process. Oncofertility counselling should foster access to fertility preservation procedures. To best serve that purpose, it should be implemented in a manner consistent with ethical and legal standards, so that patients can make an informed decision based on comprehensive and relevant data. CONCLUSIONS Counselling needs to be rooted in a close cooperation of oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, mental health counsellors and clinical researchers. The provision of oncofertility services is grounded in the moral obligation to uphold individual autonomy, which is essential in a free society, unless the exercise thereof could pose a risk to the children conceived or to others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Michael Stark
- The New European Surgical Academy (NESA), Berlin, Germany
| | - Fabrizio Signore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, USL Roma2, Sant'Eugenio Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, IVF UNIT, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Gonçalves V, Ferreira PL, Saleh M, Tamargo C, Quinn GP. Perspectives of Young Women With Gynecologic Cancers on Fertility and Fertility Preservation: A Systematic Review. Oncologist 2022; 27:e251-e264. [PMID: 35274725 PMCID: PMC8914481 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gynecologic cancers standard treatment often requires the removal of some reproductive organs, making fertility preservation a complex challenge. Despite heightened oncofertility awareness, knowledge about fertility attitudes and decisions of young patients with gynecologic cancer is scarce. The aim of this systematic review was to highlight what is currently known about knowledge, attitudes, and decisions about fertility, fertility preservation, and parenthood among these patients. METHODS Peer-reviewed journals published in English were searched in PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE from January 1, 2000 to July 1, 2020. Childbearing, fertility, fertility preservation, pregnancy, and parenthood attitudes/decisions after gynecologic cancer from women's perspective were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 13 studies comprised the review. Most of the women valued fertility preservation procedures that could be regarded as a means to restore fertility. A unique feature identified was that fertility preservation was seen also as a way to restore gender identity perceived to be lost or threatened during diagnosis and treatment. Fertility counseling was suboptimal, with wide variability among studies reviewed. Comparisons between gynecologic cancers and other cancer types about fertility counseling rates were inconclusive. The potential negative impact of impaired fertility on patients' mental health and quality of life was also documented. CONCLUSIONS Fertility and parenthood were important matters in patients' lives, with the majority of patients expressing positive attitudes toward future childbearing. Results confirm that the inclusion of patients with gynecologic cancer in research studies focusing on this topic still remains low. Additionally, the provision of fertility counseling and referral by health professionals is still suboptimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vânia Gonçalves
- Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Pedro L Ferreira
- Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mona Saleh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christina Tamargo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gwendolyn P Quinn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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Barriers to Oncofertility Care among Female Adolescent Cancer Patients in Canada. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:1583-1593. [PMID: 35323333 PMCID: PMC8947634 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29030133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
High survival rates in adolescent cancer patients have shifted the medical focus to the long-term outcomes of cancer treatments. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation increase the risk of infertility and infertility-related distress in adolescent cancer patients and survivors. The aims of this narrative review were to (1) describe the psychosocial impacts of cancer-related infertility in adolescents, (2) identify multilevel barriers to fertility preservation (FP) conversations and referrals, and (3) conclude with evidence-based clinical solutions for improving the oncofertility support available to Canadian adolescents. The results of this review revealed that FP decisions occur within the patient, parent, and health care provider (HCP) triad, and are influenced by factors such as parent attitudes, patient maturity, and HCP knowledge. Decision tools and HCP education can promote the occurrence of developmentally appropriate fertility discussions. At the systems level, cost and resource barriers prevent patients from receiving sufficient fertility information and referrals. Clinical models of care (MOCs) can define interdisciplinary roles and referral pathways to improve the integration of oncofertility services into adolescent cancer care. The continued integration of oncofertility care will ensure that all Canadian adolescents receive the exemplary medical and psychological support necessary to make empowered decisions about their own fertility.
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50
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Linnane S, Quinn A, Riordan A, Dowling M. Women's fertility decision-making with a diagnosis of breast cancer: A qualitative evidence synthesis. Int J Nurs Pract 2022; 28:e13036. [PMID: 35088478 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.13036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM To synthesize qualitative evidence of premenopausal women's experiences of fertility decision-making with a diagnosis of breast cancer. BACKGROUND Breast cancer is increasingly more common in premenopausal women who may have not yet considered starting a family or have completed their families. DESIGN Qualitative evidence synthesis guided by Thomas and Harden's three-stage approach to thematic analysis. DATA SOURCES Twelve electronic databases were searched: CINAHL, Embase, Pubmed, Proquest, PsychINFO, Lenus, Scopus, Web of Science, Rian.ie, Medline, EThOS e-theses online and DART Europe. No year limit was set. REVIEW METHODS The 'Enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research guidelines' (ENTREQ) statement was followed. RESULTS Fifteen qualitative studies were included in the synthesis. Seven review findings under four major themes were identified: (1) first comes survival, (2) making decisions 'under the gun', (3) health-care professionals should not make assumptions and (4) we want accurate, detailed information and we want it early. High confidence in six of the review findings was agreed. CONCLUSION Most women experienced rushed fertility preservation decision-making at a time when they also faced cancer treatment decisions. Women want detailed, clear information on fertility preservation early after their diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Linnane
- Public Health Nurse, Mervue Health Centre, Galway, Ireland
| | - Aoife Quinn
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (Oncology), Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anne Riordan
- National Health Library and Knowledge Service, Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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