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Chen CY, Yi YC, Guu HF, Chen YF, Kung HF, Chang JC, Chen LY, Hung CC, Chen MJ. Pathways to motherhood: A single-center retrospective study on fertility preservation and reproductive outcomes in patients with breast cancer. J Formos Med Assoc 2024:S0929-6646(24)00356-5. [PMID: 39138104 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2024.08.005] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer treatments often have negative effects on fertility, which pose challenges among patients who want to be parents in the future. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of oocyte cryopreservation, embryo cryopreservation, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation in patients with breast cancer. METHODS This retrospective review evaluated 42 patients with breast cancer who underwent fertility preservation at our center from January 2012 to December 2022. This review encompassed the demographic characteristics of the patients, cancer stages, treatment details, and types of fertility preservation procedures and their outcomes. RESULTS The average age at disease diagnosis was 33.4 years. Approximately 90.4% of patients presented with early-stage cancer (≤2). Of 42 patients, 26 underwent oocyte cryopreservation; 17, embryo cryopreservation; and 2, ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Further, three patients received mixed treatment. The overall live birth rate was 63.2%. There are more live births in embryo cryopreservation group. The successful pregnancy group was significantly younger and had a remarkably higher quantity of preserved oocytes/embryos than the nonsuccessful pregnancy group. The oocyte and embryo utilization rates in cryopreservation were 7.69% and 52.94%, respectively. These findings underscored the importance of prompt, informed discussions about fertility preservation options. CONCLUSION Fertility preservation in patients with breast cancer have promising reproductive outcomes, with embryo cryopreservation being particularly effective. Prompt counseling and individualized fertility preservation strategies are important for improving the likelihood of posttreatment pregnancy. Nevertheless, future research on the long-term psychological and emotional effects of different fertility preservation methods must be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chiao Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hwa-Fen Guu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Fang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Fan Kung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Chun Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan; Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Yu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chiang Hung
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jer Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, 407, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Tanner S, Engstrom T, Forbes C, Patel D, Lee WR, Walker R, Bradford N, Pole JD. Physical function patient-reported outcomes among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: A systematic review. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7046. [PMID: 38520164 PMCID: PMC10960160 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7046] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The physical challenges faced by adolescents and young adults (AYA) after a cancer diagnosis may be different from those experienced by paediatric and older adult cancer patients. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are valuable tools that can be useful in exploring the experiences of AYAs and identifying important issues, recurrent themes and areas to potentially improve quality of life. OBJECTIVE We compared patient-reported physical function outcomes between AYAs diagnosed with cancer and non-cancer controls. METHOD This paper builds on a scoping review published in early 2023 and focuses on PROMs related to physical function. RESULTS This systematic review includes 16 studies that measured and reported on physical function PROMs in AYA cancer survivors compared with their cancer-free peers. Of these studies, 14 found that physical function in AYA survivors was significantly worse. This paper also includes a meta-analysis conducted on 5 studies using the EORTC-QLQ-C30 to measure physical function, which found that physical function score was an average of 7.03 (95% CI: -10.21, -3.86) points lower in the AYA cancer group, compared to their cancer free-peers, a difference that is clinically meaningful. CONCLUSIONS The results overwhelmingly demonstrate that AYAs post a cancer diagnosis have worse health-related quality of life from a physical function perspective than their cancer-free peers, providing a compelling argument for the need to address this issue. All but one of the studies were cross-sectional, which highlights the need for further assessment of this group longitudinally throughout their cancer journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Tanner
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Teyl Engstrom
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Cheryl Forbes
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Dhaval Patel
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Wen Ray Lee
- Child Health Research CentreThe University of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Rick Walker
- School of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- Queensland Children's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Princess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Natalie Bradford
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre at Centre for Children's Health ResearchQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Jason D. Pole
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- The University of TorontoDalla Lana School of Public HealthTorontoOntarioCanada
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Dong Y, Yue Z, Zhuang H, Zhang C, Fang Y, Jiang G. The experiences of reproductive concerns in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22224-22251. [PMID: 38069669 PMCID: PMC10757101 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6531] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to synthesize qualitative research evidence on cancer survivors' experiences with reproductive concerns (RC). METHODS We conducted a systematic search of qualitative studies and utilized the meta-aggregation approach. The database searches were extended up to May 14, 2023, encompassing 12 databases, specifically MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science (Core Collection), AMED, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, and VIP. RESULTS Three overarching themes were synthesized from the analysis of 21 studies that explored cancer patients' awareness of reproductive concerns, their perceptions, needs, and coping styles. These themes encapsulate the multifaceted aspects of cancer patients' reproductive concerns: "Gender differences in fertility concerns among cancer patients: Perspectives from men and women"; "The influence of age: Experiences with fertility issues among cancer patients at different life stages"; "The impact of treatment stages on fertility concerns: The evolution of perception and coping strategies in the course of cancer treatment". CONCLUSION Our study presents an in-depth exploration of the reproductive concerns experienced by cancer patients from various perspectives. We found that the internal experiences of reproductive concerns, their perceptions, needs, and coping mechanisms differ based on their roles. This comprehensive understanding of the complex emotions and needs of cancer patients when confronted with fertility issues can guide clinicians in providing more effective medical assistance, psychological counseling, and fertility-related information services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Dong
- LiaoNing Cancer Hospital & Institute, DaLian Medical University School of NursingShenyangChina
| | - Zhenyu Yue
- LiaoNing Cancer Hospital & InstituteShenyangChina
| | - Huan Zhuang
- Third Department of GynecologyLiaoNing Cancer Hospital & InstituteShenyangChina
| | - Chen Zhang
- DaLian Medical University School of NursingDalianChina
| | - Yu Fang
- DaLian Medical University School of NursingDalianChina
| | - Guichun Jiang
- Clinical Skills Training CenterLiaoNing Cancer Hospital & InstituteShenyangChina
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Liu C, Liu C, Gao H, Yu X, Chen C, Lin H, Qiu L, Chen L, Tian H. Mediation Effects of Coping Styles on Fear of Progression and Reproductive Concerns in Breast Cancer Patients of Reproductive Age. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2023; 17:245-252. [PMID: 37944797 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2023.11.002] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate reproductive concerns among breast cancer patients of reproductive age, analyze the influencing factors, explore the relationship between coping styles, fear of progression (FOP), and reproductive concerns, and identify the multiple effects of coping styles on the relationship between FOP and reproductive concerns among Chinese breast cancer patients. METHODS A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among breast cancer patients in four tertiary grade A hospitals in Fujian, China, from January 2022 to September 2022. A total of 210 patients were recruited to complete paper-based questionnaires, which included the general data questionnaires, the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer Scale (RCACS), the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FOP-Q-SF), and the Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ). Structural equation models were utilized to evaluate the multiple effects of coping styles on FOP and reproductive concerns. RESULTS Reproductive concerns in breast cancer patients had a mean score of 53.02 (SD, 10.69), out of a total score of 90, and coping styles for cancer (confrontation, avoidance) were closely associated with FOP and reproductive concerns. FOP showed a significant positive correlation with reproductive concerns (r = .52, p < .01). At the same time, confrontation was significantly negatively correlated with both FOP (r = -.28, p < .01) and reproductive concerns (r = -.39, p < .01). Avoidance was positively correlated to both FOP (r = .25, p < .01) and reproductive concerns (r = .34, p < .01). The impact of FOP on reproductive concerns is partially mediated by confrontation and avoidance, with effect sizes of .07 and .04, respectively. These mediating factors account for 22.0% of the total effect. CONCLUSIONS The FOP directly impacted reproductive concerns, while coping styles could partially mediate the association between FOP and reproductive concerns. This study illustrates the role of confrontation and avoidance in alleviating reproductive concerns, suggesting that it is necessary to focus on the changes in reproductive concerns among reproductive-age breast cancer patients. Healthcare professionals can improve disease awareness and reduce patients' FOP, thereby promoting positive psychological and coping behaviors and ultimately alleviating reproductive concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiting Liu
- School of Nursing, Putian University, Putian, Fujian, China
| | - Cuiping Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, Fujian, China
| | - Huiting Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Women and Children Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xuefen Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Women and Children Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chunying Chen
- Nursing Department, The First Hospital of Putian City, Putian, Fujian, China
| | - Hangying Lin
- Department of Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, Fujian, China
| | - Lijuan Qiu
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Longyan City, Longyan, Fujian, China
| | - Liangying Chen
- School of Nursing, Putian University, Putian, Fujian, China.
| | - Hongmei Tian
- School of Nursing, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China.
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Tanner S, Engstrom T, Lee WR, Forbes C, Walker R, Bradford N, Pole JD. Mental health patient-reported outcomes among adolescents and young adult cancer survivors: A systematic review. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18381-18393. [PMID: 37596768 PMCID: PMC10524059 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients and survivors face significant mental health challenges throughout their cancer journey that are different to those faced by children and older adults. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can be used to explore the experiences of AYAs, and to identify important issues and areas for potential improvement in quality of life. OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare patient reported mental health outcomes between AYAs diagnosed with cancer and non-cancer controls. METHOD We built on a larger systematic review of AYA cancer PROMs which searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsychINFO. This review identified 175 articles, which were filtered to those reporting on mental health and including a non-cancer control group. RESULTS We identified 12 eligible studies. Seven studies (58%) found those diagnosed with cancer reported poorer mental health than the non-cancer controls. The remaining five (42%) studies found no significant difference in severity or prevalence of mental health between the AYA cancer cohort and the healthy control group. Most (83%) were cross-sectional studies, highlighting the need for further longitudinal assessment of this group throughout their journey. CONCLUSIONS The mental health outcomes feature conflicting results and illustrate the need for larger studies to characterise discrepancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Tanner
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Teyl Engstrom
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Wen Ray Lee
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Cheryl Forbes
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Rick Walker
- School of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- Queensland Children's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Princess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Natalie Bradford
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre at Centre for Children's Health ResearchQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Jason D. Pole
- Centre for Health Services ResearchThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthThe University of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
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Ahn J, Han J. The lived experiences of pregnancy planning after breast cancer in women of childbearing age: A phenomenological study. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023; 10:100276. [PMID: 37661963 PMCID: PMC10471927 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100276] [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: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This phenomenological study aimed to explore the lived experiences of planning for pregnancy after breast cancer in women of childbearing age. Methods The study comprised 15 women with breast cancer who were considering pregnancy and childbirth. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted between November 2022 and March 2023, and the verbatim transcripts were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. Results Four theme clusters emerged: (1) deepening desires amidst hardships, (2) endless worries about an uncertain future, (3) unveiling the meaning of having a child, and (4) perpetual deliberations regarding unresolved dilemmas. Over time, the participants' longing for children intensified, despite the contradiction of their reduced fertility. They expressed concerns about the potential risks and challenges of pregnancy in breast cancer patients, but they attributed value to having a child as a means to restoring their health, reclaiming their ordinary lives, and providing motivation for a healthier future. The participants found making decisions regarding pregnancy to be difficult and were often influenced by others. Conclusions This study underscores the unique challenges faced by women with breast cancer who are making fertility-related decisions. The findings contribute to a better understanding of these challenges and offer valuable insights for the development of decision aids that support shared decision-making for pregnancy after breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghee Ahn
- Department of Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeehee Han
- Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Osmani V, Hörner L, Klug SJ, Tanaka LF. Prevalence and risk of psychological distress, anxiety and depression in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18354-18367. [PMID: 37559504 PMCID: PMC10523984 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors (CS) face unique psychosocial challenges, which may affect their mental health. However, there are inconsistencies in AYA definitions and varying prevalence data on psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. We aimed to synthesize published literature on prevalence, risk, longitudinal changes, and predictors for these outcomes and estimate pooled prevalences. METHODS We searched for observational studies published in English before June 1 2022, in PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two researchers extracted independently information on study characteristics, prevalence, and risk. The pooled prevalence (PP) of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression was estimated using random-effects models. Geographical region, treatment status, and assessment instruments were considered in stratified meta-analyses. RESULTS Sixty-eight studies were included in the systematic review and 57 in the meta-analyses. We estimated an overall prevalence of 32% (n = 30; 4226/15,213 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%-42%; I2 = 99%) for psychological distress, 29% for anxiety (n = 24; 2828/8751 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%-36%; I2 = 98%), and 24% (n = 35; 3428/16,638 AYAs; 95% CI, 18%-31%; I2 = 98%) for depression. The range of PP of psychological distress varied across geographical regions, treatment status, and assessment instruments. The PP of anxiety varied significantly across continents, while no variations were seen for depression. Studies found higher risks for psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in AYAs compared to older cancer survivors or cancer-free peers. CONCLUSIONS Our research found that one in three AYA-CS experience psychological distress or anxiety and one in four are affected by depression, highlighting the need for specialized psychological services for AYA-CS in oncology settings and AYA-focused interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Osmani
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Lucy Hörner
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Stefanie J. Klug
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Luana Fiengo Tanaka
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
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Zhu F, Liu C, Chen Q, Qiang W, Lu Q. Revision and psychometric evaluation of a fertility intention scale for young women with breast cancer in Chinese Mainland. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023; 10:100264. [PMID: 37661956 PMCID: PMC10471931 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100264] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Neglected fertility intentions affect the quality of life of young women with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to revise the Taiwanese version of the Fertility Intention Scale and validate its psychometric properties among young women with breast cancer in Chinese Mainland. Methods We performed a cross-sectional survey with young women with breast cancer at a Chinese cancer hospital to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Revised Fertility Intention Scale. A two-phase study was conducted: (1) revision of the scale and (2) evaluation of the scale's reliability and validity. Results Six new items and one new dimension were added to the original 15 items and four dimensions, reliability and validity of the 21-item Revised Fertility Intention Scale were verified in a sample of 436 women in Chineses Mainland with breast cancer who were aged 18-40 years. The content validity index, results of factor analysis, convergent validity, and known-groups validity were acceptable, and the Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients supported the revised scale. Conclusions The 21-item Revised Fertility Intention Scale has satisfactory reliability and validity for assessing fertility intentions among young women with breast cancer in Chinese Mainland. In clinical practice, nurses can use the scale to identify fertility intentions and associated factors in young women with breast cancer and develop feasible and effective oncofertility care measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhu
- School of Nursing, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Chunlei Liu
- School of Nursing, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Queting Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Wanmin Qiang
- Department of Nursing, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Lu
- Division of Medical & Surgical Nursing, Peking University School of Nursing, Beijing, China
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Bentsen L, Pappot H, Hjerming M, Hanghøj S. Thoughts about fertility among female adolescents and young adults with cancer: a qualitative study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:421. [PMID: 37357225 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07887-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nine hundred female adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged 15-39 are diagnosed with cancer in Denmark annually. Advances in cancer therapy have led to increased long-term survival; however, a serious side effect of cancer therapy is reduced fertility. The aim of our study was to explore the thoughts about fertility among female AYAs with cancer. METHODS Our study was conducted from September 2020 to March 2021 at the Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet. Inclusion criteria were female AYAs with cancer aged 18-39. Twelve individual, semi-structured, qualitative interviews were performed with female AYAs with cancer (20-35 years). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four main themes were found: (1) the female AYAs held on to a hope of having children in the future; (2) the female AYAs experienced time pressure and waiting time as a sprint as well as a marathon; (3) the female AYAs faced existential and ethical choices about survival and family formation; and (4) the female AYAs felt a loss of control of their bodies. CONCLUSION Our study contributes with knowledge on how important holding on to the hope of children in the future is among female AYAs with cancer. Meanwhile, they are frustrated by the rushed decision on fertility preservation at diagnosis. The female AYAs also have existential and ethical concerns related to the choice of cancer therapy and fertility preservation. Finally, they suffer from altered body image, loss of femininity, and body control due to hormone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Bentsen
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Helle Pappot
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maiken Hjerming
- Department of Hematology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Signe Hanghøj
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Xiao PP, Ding SQ, Duan YL, Luo XF, Zhou Y, Cheng QQ, Liu XY, Xie JF, Cheng ASK. Metacognitions associated with reproductive concerns: A cross-sectional study of young adult female cancer survivors in China. Front Psychol 2022; 13:987221. [PMID: 36237684 PMCID: PMC9552999 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.987221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Cancer and its treatments affect patients’ fertility potential. This study examined the prevalence of reproductive concerns and their relationship with metacognitions among Chinese young adult female cancer survivors (YAFCS). Methods A total of 318 YAFCS (aged 18–39) completed an online survey from March to December 2021. Participants reported sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive concerns and metacognitions. Reproductive concerns were measured using the Reproductive Concerns after Cancer scale (RCAC), and metacognitions were measured by the Short Form of Metacognitions Questionnaire (MCQ-30). We used Pearson correlation analysis to examine associations between metacognitions and reproductive concerns across multiple domains and multivariable linear regression to determine the influencing factors of reproductive concerns. Results The mean score of reproductive concern among YAFCS was 49.97 ± 12.52. A total of 57.9% of participants reported a high level of concern regarding at least one dimension of reproductive concerns, and they were most concerned about their child’s health and least concerned about partner disclosure of fertility status. We also found a moderate association between RCAC and MCQ-30 scores (r = 0.408, p < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, metacognitions, especially negative metacognitive beliefs had an impact on reproductive concerns among YAFCS (p < 0.001). Conclusion Higher reproductive concerns were associated with higher metacognitions among YAFCS, especially with negative metacognitive beliefs. Oncology professionals should pay attention to assessing reproductive concerns in patients who want to have children or who have no children. Moreover, metacognitive beliefs may be an intervention target for alleviating reproductive concerns among YAFCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Pan Xiao
- Department of Nursing, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Si Qing Ding
- Department of Nursing, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Long Duan
- Department of Emergency, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao Fei Luo
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qin Qin Cheng
- Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiang Yu Liu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital, Health Management Center, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Fei Xie
- Department of Nursing, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Fei Xie,
| | - Andy SK Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Bártolo A, Santos IM, Guimarães R, Reis S, Monteiro S. Attentional Bias Toward Reproduction-Related Stimuli and Fertility Concerns Among Breast Cancer Survivors. Behav Med 2022; 48:273-283. [PMID: 33872117 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2021.1879725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined whether an attentional bias exists for reproduction-related visual cues among breast cancer survivors and its relationship with fertility concerns and emotional distress. Breast cancer survivors (n = 38) aged 18-40 were compared to 37 healthy women recruited from the general population. Attentional bias was investigated using a visual dot-probe task and response times (RT) were measured. Participants also completed several questionnaires, including the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer Scale (RCACS) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Biased cognitive processing toward reproduction-related stimuli was observed for all young women. However, attentional bias was a significant predictor of concerns about partner disclosure of fertility status, with higher bias scores associated with higher levels of concern only for breast cancer survivors. The desire to have a (or another) biological child was also a significant predictor of higher concerns related with fertility potential for all young women. Higher vigilance regarding reproduction-related cues seems to lead to higher concerns among women with breast cancer history whose fertility is threatened. This result may have important research and clinical implications. Interventions focused on goal-oriented attention self-regulation and problem-solving can help to manage fertility concerns and distress in the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Bártolo
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Isabel M Santos
- William James Center for Research, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Raquel Guimarães
- Breast Center, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Salomé Reis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Monteiro
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Xie J, Sun Q, Duan Y, Cheng Q, Luo X, Zhou Y, Liu X, Xiao P, Cheng ASK. Reproductive concerns among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: A scoping review of current research situations. Cancer Med 2022; 11:3508-3517. [PMID: 35332694 PMCID: PMC9487873 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility is a significant concern among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors and their caregivers, especially after their completion of cancer treatment programs. Concerns about fertility affect not only cancer patients' psychological well‐being, but also all aspects of their medical treatments, including treatment protocol, decision‐making, and treatment adherence. In this scoping review, the PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang electronic databases were searched according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews. The searches identified 669 articles, 54 of which met the inclusion criteria. Reviewers extracted the data on the study characteristics, measurements, positive factors, negative factors, and additional themes. This scoping review included studies from 10 countries. Most studies were quantitative using a cross‐sectional design. The prevalence of reproductive concerns among AYA cancer survivors ranged from 44% to 86%, and 28% to 44% of the survivors experienced moderate to severe concerns. The specific implementation of fertility consultation, including timing, consult frequency, and content, deserves ongoing exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfei Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Sun
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinglong Duan
- Department of Emergency, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qinqin Cheng
- Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaofei Luo
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Health Management Center of Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Panpan Xiao
- Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Andy S K Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, China
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Huang SM, Kao TS, Lien PJ, Hsieh PL, Chen PH, Tseng LM. Oncofertility care: A qualitative study to understand personal perspectives and barriers in the multidisciplinary breast care team in Taiwan. WOMEN'S HEALTH 2022; 18:17455057221078480. [PMID: 35156483 PMCID: PMC8848045 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221078480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Previous studies indicate significant gaps exist in current practices and perceptions of oncofertility care. Objectives: We aim to understand the clinical experience regarding oncofertility care among health providers in a multidisciplinary breast care team. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive study was conducted. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 health care providers who worked in a hospital in Taipei. Verbatim transcriptions were analyzed using constant analysis methods. Results: Health care providers’ experiences regarding fertility care for reproductive-age women with breast cancer were divided into two themes: personal perspectives and barriers. Personal perspectives consisted of six subthemes including empathizing with the patient’s suffering during the diagnosis and treatment, safety as a prerequisite, satisfying the women’s needs, respecting the women’s choice, questioning women’s ability to raise children, and returning to family life. There were also six subthemes under barriers. These subthemes were poor communication among the multidisciplinary team, lack of initial screening, insufficient support in the women’s families, treatment considerations, lack of evidence-based information regarding oncofertility, and non-follow-up protocol. Conclusion: Nurses should evaluate the fertility needs of women with cancer and identify potential gaps during oncofertility care. Education strategies and tactics should be improved in order to overcome difficulties arising from health care providers’ personal perspectives and barriers to the provision of optimal fertility care in women with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Teh-Sing Kao
- Department of Nursing, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City
| | - Pei-Ju Lien
- Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City
| | - Pei-Ling Hsieh
- Department of Nursing, University of Kang Ning, Taipei City
| | - Ping-Ho Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei City
| | - Ling-Ming Tseng
- Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City
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