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Bagautdinova D, Bylund CL, Forthun LF, Miller CA, Hamel LM, Fisher CL. Helping adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer manage identity distress: Enhancing clinician-AYA patient communication to promote identity development. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2024; 128:108372. [PMID: 39029282 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2024.108372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A cancer diagnosis during adolescence and young adulthood (AYA) disrupts AYAs' identity formation, a critical task for healthy development, and contributes to psychological distress called identity distress. Clinical communication is central to promoting AYAs' healthy identity development. We sought to identify aspects of clinician-diagnosed AYA communication that can promote AYAs' identity development and potentially buffer them from distress. METHODS In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with two groups (AYA oncology clinicians and diagnosed AYAs). Transcripts were thematically analyzed to capture communication that clinicians and AYAs perceive promotes AYAs' identity development and buffers related distress. RESULTS Fourteen diagnosed AYAs and 7 clinicians identified three clinician- or AYA-led communication approaches and associated strategies that they perceive can buffer identity distress and promote identity development: 1) clinicians' using person-centered communication (e.g., empathic communication); 2) promoting AYAs' control/self-management of care (e.g., not dictating AYAs' behavior); and 3) prioritizing/seeing the person behind the patient (e.g., knowing the AYA as a person). CONCLUSION/PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Both AYA oncology clinicians and diagnosed AYAs can communicate in ways that protect AYAs' identity development and related psychological well-being. Findings can be implemented into targeted communication skills interventions to teach health-promoting behavior and augment AYAs' psychosocial oncology care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carma L Bylund
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
| | - Larry F Forthun
- Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
| | - Carrie A Miller
- Department of Public Relations, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
| | - Lauren M Hamel
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/ Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, USA.
| | - Carla L Fisher
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
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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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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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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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Glackin A, Marino JL, Peate M, McNeil R, Orme LM, McCarthy MC, Sawyer SM. Experiences of Oncofertility Decision-Making and Care in a National Sample of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients and Parents. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:170-179. [PMID: 37535814 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Cancer and its treatments are known to compromise fertility in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). The emotional burden of possible infertility is reduced in those who receive supportive oncofertility care. In legal minors, provision of health care must consider the legal context and desire that AYAs have for autonomous decision-making, together with their competence to make health decisions. This has important implications for how oncofertility discussions may, or may not, involve parents. The aim of this study was to explore oncofertility decision-making and care experiences in a national Australian sample of AYA cancer patients and their parents. Methods: AYAs aged 15-25 years and parents were recruited from 17 cancer care sites and CanTeen Australia as part of a national AYA cancer care study. The cross-sectional survey included open-ended questions regarding oncofertility care experiences. We used reflexive thematic analysis to identify themes. Results: Data were available for 99 AYAs and 111 parents. Four themes were identified: emotional care needs; parent-AYA dynamics including AYA autonomy and agency; decision-making considerations including values and practicalities; and reflections on oncofertility care and follow-up. Both AYAs and parents placed importance on AYA autonomy in fertility decision-making, but many AYAs appreciated the role of parents in providing support and guidance throughout the process. Conclusion: Health care professionals are encouraged to autonomously engage AYAs around fertility decision-making, while concurrently offering opportunities that promote parental support. Better psychological support and follow-up oncofertility care are also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife Glackin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Marino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Peate
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn McNeil
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa M Orme
- ONTrac at Peter Mac, Victorian Youth Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria C McCarthy
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan M Sawyer
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Klijn NF, ter Kuile MM, Lashley EELO. Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) and Patient Experiences in Fertility Preservation: A Systematic Review of the Literature on Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5828. [PMID: 38136372 PMCID: PMC10741741 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245828] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With better survival rates for patients diagnosed with cancer, more attention has been focused on future risks, like fertility decline due to gonadotoxic treatment. In this regard, the emphasis during counselling regarding possible preservation options is often on the treatment itself, meaning that the medical and emotional needs of patients regarding counselling, treatment, and future fertility are often overlooked. This review focuses on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and patient experiences regarding fertility preservation (FP)-among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. A systematic review of the literature, with a systematic search of online databases, was performed, resulting in 61 selected articles. A quality assessment was performed by a mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT). Based on this search, three important topics emerged: initiating discussion about the risk of fertility decline, acknowledging the importance of future fertility, and recognizing the need for more verbal and written patient-specific information. In addition, patients value follow-up care and the opportunity to rediscuss FP and their concerns about future fertility and use of stored material. A clear FP healthcare pathway can prevent delays in receiving a referral to a fertility specialist to discuss FP options and initiating FP treatment. This patient-centered approach will optimize FP experiences and help to establish a process to achieve long-term follow up after FP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole F. Klijn
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Din HN, Singh-Carlson S, Corliss HL, Hartman SJ, Strong D, Madanat H, Su HI. Perceived and Objective Fertility Risk Among Female Survivors of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2337245. [PMID: 37819662 PMCID: PMC10568355 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.37245] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Fertility is important to many survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer, yet data on this population's fertility perceptions and their alignment with objective infertility risk are scant. Objective To assess whether estimated treatment gonadotoxicity and posttreatment menstrual pattern are associated with higher infertility risk perception. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study included female young adult survivors of cancer diagnosed between ages 15 and 39 years were recruited between March 25, 2015, and September 24, 2018, from 2 state cancer registries, social media, and clinician referrals to participate in a study of posttreatment ovarian function. Data analysis occurred between March 1 and September 1, 2022. Exposures Participants reported their menstrual pattern. Estimated treatment gonadotoxicity was ascertained through medical record review. Main Outcomes and Measures Participants reported infertility risk perception and were categorized as increased risk (feeling less fertile or unable to become pregnant) or no increased risk (feeling more or as fertile) compared with female individuals their age. Objective infertility risk was determined by estimated gonadotoxicity, menstrual pattern, and ovarian reserve testing of self-collected dried blood spots. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with perceived infertility and underestimation or overestimation of infertility risk. Results This study included 785 female participants with a mean (SD) age of 33.2 (4.8) years at enrollment and 25.9 (5.7) years at diagnosis. Most participants self-identified their race and ethnicity as White (585 [74.5%]) and non-Hispanic (628 [78.7%]). Most participants (483 [61.5%]) perceived a higher risk of infertility compared with female participants their age. Prior exposure to moderate- or high-gonadotoxicity treatments was associated with higher odds of perceiving increased infertility risk compared with exposure to low-gonadotoxicity treatments (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.73 [95% CI, 1.87-3.97] and 15.39 [95% CI, 5.52-42.96], respectively). Amenorrhea and irregular cycles were associated with higher odds of perceiving increased infertility risk (AOR, 3.98 [95% CI, 2.13-7.41] and 1.69 [95% CI, 1.19-2.40], respectively). Perceived infertility risk had minimal agreement with objective risk (κ = 0.19). Multiparity (AOR, 4.17 [95% CI, 2.61-6.64]) was associated with increased odds of underestimation, while older age (AOR, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.89-0.98]), endocrine comorbidity (AOR, 0.35 [95% CI, 0.18-0.69]), and prior infertility (AOR, 0.16 [95% CI, 0.07-0.38]) were associated with lower odds of underestimation. Multiparity (AOR, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.27-0.86]), breast cancer (AOR, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.20-0.73]), and skin cancer (AOR, 0.24 [95% CI, 0.11-0.51]) were associated with lower odds of overestimation. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, survivors of AYA cancer had high rates of perceiving increased infertility risk but frequently overestimated or underestimated their risk. These findings suggest that counseling on infertility risk throughout survivorship may reduce misalignment between perceptions and actual risk, decrease fertility-related psychological distress, and inform family planning decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hena Naz Din
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | | | - Heather L. Corliss
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
- Center for Research on Sexuality and Sexual Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
- Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | - Sheri J. Hartman
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - David Strong
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Hala Madanat
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
- Division of Research and Innovation, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
- Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
| | - H. Irene Su
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
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8
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Hughes L, Fern LA, Whelan JS, Taylor RM, Study Group B. Young people's opinions of cancer care in England: the BRIGHTLIGHT cohort. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069910. [PMID: 37730384 PMCID: PMC10514633 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The BRIGHTLIGHT cohort study was the national evaluation of cancer services for teenager and young adults (TYA). This was analysis of free-text survey data to better understand their experiences of cancer care. DESIGN Cohort study SETTING: National Health Service hospitals delivering cancer care in England PARTICIPANTS: 830 young people newly diagnosed with cancer. INTERVENTIONS Exposure to specialist care in the first 6 months after diagnosis defined as care in a TYA Principal Treatment Centre (PTC). This was categorised as follows: all care in a TYA-PTC (ALL-TYA-PTC), no care in a TYA-PTC (NO-TYA-PTC) so care delivered in a children/adult unit only and some care in a TYA-PTC with additional care in a children's/adult unit (SOME-TYA-PTC). PRIMARY OUTCOME Data were collected through the BRIGHTLIGHT survey included free-text questions which asked patients 'what was the best aspects of their experiences of care' and 'what aspects could be improved'. These comments were analysed using content analysis. Themes were compared between categories of care, then ranked in order of frequency, ranging from the most endorsed to the least. RESULTS Overall, young people were most positive about their healthcare team, while the area highlighted for improvement was diagnostic experience. Differences between the three groups suggested those who had some or all treatment in a TYA-PTC valued the place of care. Regardless of where TYA were treated their healthcare teams were favourably viewed. Age appropriate place of care was highlighted to be of value for those in PTCs. CONCLUSIONS These data show the value young people placed on the care they received in TYA specific wards. Young people who accessed some or all of their care in a TYA-PTC highly endorsed their place of care as one of the best elements of their care, and it is further emphasised by those who had shared care who experienced difficulty with lack of age-appropriate care when treated outside the TYA-PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Hughes
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Lorna A Fern
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy S Whelan
- Cancer Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Centre for Nurse, Midwife and Allied Health Profession Led Research (CNMAR), University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Brightlight Study Group
- Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
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Pawłowski P, Ziętara KJ, Michalczyk J, Fryze M, Buchacz A, Zaucha-Prażmo A, Zawitkowska J, Torres A, Samardakiewicz M. Fertility Preservation in Children and Adolescents during Oncological Treatment-A Review of Healthcare System Factors and Attitudes of Patients and Their Caregivers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4393. [PMID: 37686669 PMCID: PMC10487203 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174393] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncofertility is any therapeutic intervention to safeguard the fertility of cancer patients. Anti-cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc.) entail the risk of reproductive disorders through cytotoxic effects on gamete-building cells, especially those not yet fully developed. This literature review analyzes the available data on securing fertility in pediatric and adolescent populations to identify the methods used and describe aspects related to financing, ethics, and the perspective of patients and their parents. Topics related to oncofertility in this age group are relatively niche, with few peer-reviewed articles available and published studies mostly on adults. Compared to pubertal individuals, a limited number of fertility preservation methods are used for prepubertal patients. Funding for the procedures described varies from country to country, but only a few governments choose to reimburse them. Oncofertility of pediatric and adolescent patients raises many controversies related to the decision, parents' beliefs, having a partner, ethics, as well as the knowledge and experience of healthcare professionals. As the fertility of young cancer patients is at risk, healthcare professionals should make every effort to provide them with an opportunity to fulfill their future reproductive plans and to have a family and offspring. Systemic solutions should form the basis for the development of oncofertility in pediatric and adolescent populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawłowski
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Karolina Joanna Ziętara
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Justyna Michalczyk
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Magdalena Fryze
- Department of Psychology, Psychosocial Aspects of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna Buchacz
- Youth Cancer Europe, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Agnieszka Zaucha-Prażmo
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.Z.-P.); (J.Z.)
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.Z.-P.); (J.Z.)
| | - Anna Torres
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marzena Samardakiewicz
- Department of Psychology, Psychosocial Aspects of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.F.); (M.S.)
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10
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Burns K, Phillips C, Brannigan R, Franklin A, Howell J, Schmidt D, Sopfe J, Appiah LC, Anazodo A. Male pediatric, adolescent, and young adult reproductive survivorship. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70 Suppl 5:e28823. [PMID: 37381156 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
As pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survival rates increase, emphasis is placed on reducing late effects, including reproductive complications and potential impact to fertility. Male survivors are at risk of abnormalities in sperm, hormone deficiencies, and sexual dysfunction. This can impact one's progression into puberty and ability to have a biological child and impacts quality of life following treatment. Access to reproductive care is important and requires patient assessment and appropriate referral to reproductive specialists. This review addresses reproductive complications associated with therapy, standard-of-care testing, and therapeutic interventions. The psychologic impact on psychosexual functioning is also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Burns
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Christine Phillips
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Robert Brannigan
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Anna Franklin
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jonathan Howell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Deb Schmidt
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Jenna Sopfe
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Leslie Coker Appiah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
- Department of Surgery, Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver, Colorado
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Women's and Children's, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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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 PMCID: PMC10290964 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07887-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [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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12
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El Alaoui-Lasmaili K, Nguyen-Thi PL, Demogeot N, Lighezzolo-Alnot J, Gross MJ, Mansuy L, Chastagner P, Koscinski I. Fertility discussions and concerns in childhood cancer survivors, a systematic review for updated practice. Cancer Med 2023; 12:6023-6039. [PMID: 36224740 PMCID: PMC10028046 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide ways to improve the clinical practice of fertility preservation (FP) for children, adolescents, and young adults (AYA) with cancer. DESIGN A systematic research of online databases was undertaken in March 2020 following the PRISMA criteria, including Medline and Web of Science. RESULTS Fifty-nine articles were included. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were used to collect data from patients, parents, and health care providers (HCPs). Four themes worth exploring emerged: (a) what do patients and professionals think of and know about FP? (b) what makes the fertility discussion happen or not? (c) what, retrospectively, led to FP being pursued or not? and (d) how do patients and HCPs feel about fertility issues? CONCLUSION A minority of AYAs preserve their fertility (banking assay for 45% of boys and 23% of girls). Yet fertility concerns have a significant impact on the quality of life of young cancer survivors. Although recommendations and guidelines regarding FP are available internationally, there are no specific guidelines as to how to conduct fertility counseling for children and adolescents. Some barriers are not removable, such as a poor prognosis of an obvious severe disease, time constraints for starting treatment, and cultural and religious beliefs. In response to aspects hindering patients and families to be receptive to any discussion at the time of diagnosis, psychological support could reduce the level of emotional distress and help restore a degree of open-mindedness to open a window for discussion. Moreover, as the lack of knowledge of professionals about fertility is frequently pointed out as a limiting factor for fertility discussion, reinforcing professional training regarding FP could be proposed to promote fertility discussion and eventually referral for FP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phi Linh Nguyen-Thi
- Unité d'évaluation médicale, Unité de Méthodologie, Data management et Statistique - UMDS, CHRU de Nancy
| | - Nadine Demogeot
- Interpsy Laboratory (UR4432), University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | | | | | - Ludovic Mansuy
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital of Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Pascal Chastagner
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital of Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Isabelle Koscinski
- Laboratory of Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Lorraine, University Hospital of Nancy, Nancy, France
- INSERM U1256, NGERE, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
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13
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Anderson C, Fitz V, Deal A, Getahun D, Kwan ML, Mersereau JE, Kushi LH, Chao CR, Nichols HB. Pregnancy attempts among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:475-483. [PMID: 36539058 PMCID: PMC9993144 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.12.024] [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: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether demographic and cancer-related characteristics and factors such as fertility discussion with a medical provider and fertility preservation use are associated with attempting pregnancy after adolescent and young adult cancer. DESIGN Cross-sectional online survey. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Women with lymphoma, breast cancer, thyroid cancer, or gynecologic cancer diagnosed at 15-39 years from 2004 to 2016 were identified from the North Carolina Cancer Registry and the Kaiser Permanente Northern and Southern California health care systems and responded to an online survey addressing survivorship concerns, including fertility and reproductive outcomes. EXPOSURES Demographic characteristics, cancer characteristics, fertility discussion with a medical provider or fertility specialist between cancer diagnosis and starting cancer treatment, use of fertility preservation strategies (freezing embryos or oocytes) after cancer diagnosis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Pregnancy attempt after cancer diagnosis, defined by either a pregnancy or 12 months of trying to become pregnant without pregnancy. RESULT(S) Among 801 participants who had not reached their desired family size at diagnosis, 77% had a fertility discussion with any medical provider between cancer diagnosis and treatment initiation, and 8% used fertility preservation after cancer diagnosis. At survey (median =7 years after diagnosis; interquartile range, 4-10), 32% had attempted pregnancy. Neither fertility discussion with any medical provider nor fertility counseling with a fertility specialist was significantly associated with pregnancy attempts. However, the use of fertility preservation was significantly associated with attempting pregnancy (prevalence ratios = 1.74; 95% confidence interval: 1.31-2.32). Other characteristics positively associated with pregnancy attempts included younger age at diagnosis, longer time since diagnosis, having a partner (at diagnosis or at survey), and having a history of infertility before cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSION(S) Use of fertility preservation strategies was uncommon in our cohort but was associated with attempting pregnancy after cancer. Ensuring access to fertility preservation methods may help adolescent and young adult cancer survivors to plan and initiate future fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Anderson
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Victoria Fitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Allison Deal
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Darios Getahun
- Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Marilyn L Kwan
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Jennifer E Mersereau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | - Chun R Chao
- Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Hazel B Nichols
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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14
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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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15
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Liu Y, Wang R, Qiao S, Liu F, Wang L, Su Y. How dignity-related distress interact with quality of life in young adult patients with cancer during the active treatment stage: A network analysis. Psychooncology 2022; 31:1564-1571. [PMID: 35793432 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5998] [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: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Young adult patients with cancer are a growing concern. By means of network analysis, this study aimed to explore the interplay between dignity-related distress and quality of life (QoL) in young adult patients with cancer when they undergo active treatments. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 309 young adults aged 18-39 and diagnosed with malignant tumors were recruited from an oncology center in China between September 2020 and August 2021. Participants completed the Patient Dignity Inventory and SF-36 questionnaires. Network analysis was applied to examine the network structure. RESULTS Overall, the core facets of dignity-related distress were negatively related to QoL and its corresponding domains, either directly or indirectly. Developmental distress played a central role among estimated networks and strongly interplayed with most QoL domains, especially the mental domains. Symptom distress was the only facet consistently interplayed with the physical domains of QoL (i.e., physical function and bodily pain). The social aspects were also revealed in the association between limited social support and vitality. CONCLUSIONS Early attention must be paid to guarantee the need of preserving dignity and enhancing QoL for young adult patients. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqi Liu
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Rui Wang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shiman Qiao
- Department of Radiotherapy, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fuyan Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lanzhong Wang
- School of Foreign Languages and Literature, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yonggang Su
- School of Foreign Languages and Literature, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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16
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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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17
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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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18
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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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Pitch N, Stefaniuk S, MacMillan M, Catsburg J, Gupta AA, Vora T. Looking Back to Move Forward: Lessons Learned from a Successful, Sustainable, Replicable Model of Adolescent and Young Adult Program of a Tertiary Cancer Care Center. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2022; 11:181-188. [PMID: 35007440 PMCID: PMC9057888 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0156] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (PM) established the adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology program in 2014 to address the unique needs of AYA by delivering targeted, evidence-based care through a multidisciplinary team. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent a consultation with the PM AYA program from 2014 to 2020. The association between the health domain concerns reported and age at consultation, cancer diagnoses, and time since diagnosis was analyzed using chi-square test of independence in SPSS. Results: In our cohort of 1128 AYA, the median age at assessment was 28.2 years. The most common diagnoses were lymphoma (n = 251, 22.2%), leukemia (n = 207, 18.4%), and breast cancer (n = 162, 14.4%). The most common concerns reported were related to fertility (n = 882, 78.2%) and work/school (n = 472, 41.8%). Fertility concerns were most common in 25–34 age group (443/540, 82.0%) and work-/school-related concerns were highest in 18–24 age group (191/355, 53.8%). Diagnoses significantly affect majority of concerns reported. Fertility concerns were most common in AYA consulted near diagnosis, while body image-, exercise-, and diet-related concerns were more frequently reported, while on active treatments. Conclusions: Supporting fertility concerns remains the cornerstone of any successful AYA program. Work-/school-related concerns deserve more elucidation and attention. We identified important patterns in the health-related concerns of AYA, especially as they relate to age, diagnoses, and time since diagnosis. This insight will guide us for improving patient-centered care delivery to AYA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Pitch
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stephanie Stefaniuk
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Meghan MacMillan
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada.,Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jennifer Catsburg
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Abha A Gupta
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tushar Vora
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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20
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Di Mattei VE, Perego G, Taranto P, Rancoita PMV, Maglione M, Notarianni L, Mangili G, Bergamini A, Cioffi R, Papaleo E, Candiani M. Factors Associated With a High Motivation to Undergo Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Patients. Front Psychol 2022; 12:782073. [PMID: 34975672 PMCID: PMC8716366 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.782073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Fertility loss due to cancer treatment can be a devastating experience for women and the couple. Undergoing fertility preservation can be a complex decision from both a medical and emotional point of view. The aim of the present study was to evaluate which socio-demographic and psychological factors predict a high motivation to undergo fertility preservation. Methods: Fifty-eight female cancer patients who accessed an Oncofertility Unit completed: a questionnaire to collect socio-demographic characteristics and the level of motivation, the Beck-Depression Inventory-II, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Y, and the Fertility Problem Inventory. Results: Almost half of the sample (44.8%) declared a high motivation. At multiple logistic regression analysis only the “Need for parenthood” subscale of the FPI predicted a high motivation. We alternatively evaluated as possible predictor the construct “Representations about the importance of parenthood” (i.e., the sum of the “Need for Parenthood” and “Rejection of childfree lifestyle” subscales) in place of the two separate subscales. At multiple logistic regression analysis, only this variable predicted a high motivation to undergo fertility preservation. Conclusion: The most important predictor of a high motivation to undergo fertility preservation is the individual desire for parenthood. This implies that, regardless of socio-demographic characteristics, any woman of childbearing age should receive an appropriate counseling about fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Elisabetta Di Mattei
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Perego
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Taranto
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola M V Rancoita
- University Centre for Statistics in the Biomedical Sciences (CUSSB), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariangela Maglione
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lisa Notarianni
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Bergamini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cioffi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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21
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Crespi C, Adams L, Gray TF, Azizoddin DR. An Integrative Review of the Role of Nurses in Fertility Preservation for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2021; 48:491-505. [PMID: 34411081 DOI: 10.1188/21.onf.491-505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer commonly report future fertility as an important issue in care. Despite long-standing guidelines on fertility counseling and the trusting relationship between nurses and patients, little is known about the nurse's role in fertility preservation (FP) for AYAs with cancer. LITERATURE SEARCH The authors conducted a literature search of articles published through 2020 focused on nursing involvement in FP for AYAs with cancer. DATA EVALUATION 85 studies were identified. In total, 11 articles met inclusion criteria and were critically appraised in the review. SYNTHESIS Although well positioned to improve FP care among AYAs with cancer, nurses currently have a minimal role because of provider, institutional, and patient-related barriers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Interventions to enhance nurses' knowledge about FP, improvements in electronic health record documentation, and facilitation of institutional support are needed to support the nurse's role in FP for AYAs with cancer.
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22
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Wide A, Wettergren L, Ahlgren J, Smedby KE, Hellman K, Henriksson R, Rodriguez-Wallberg K, Ståhl O, Lampic C. Fertility-related information received by young women and men with cancer - a population-based survey. Acta Oncol 2021; 60:976-983. [PMID: 33764839 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1900909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a well-known sequela of cancer treatment. Despite guidelines recommending early discussions about risk of fertility impairment and fertility preservation options, not all patients of reproductive age receive such information. AIMS This study aimed to investigate young adult cancer patients' receipt of fertility-related information and use of fertility preservation, and to identify sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with receipt of information. MATERIALS AND METHODS A population-based cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 1010 young adults with cancer in Sweden (response rate 67%). The inclusion criteria were: a previous diagnosis of breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, brain tumor, lymphoma or testicular cancer between 2016 and 2017, at an age between 18 and 39 years. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models. RESULTS A majority of men (81%) and women (78%) reported having received information about the potential impact of cancer/treatment on their fertility. A higher percentage of men than women reported being informed about fertility preservation (84% men vs. 40% women, p < .001) and using gamete or gonadal cryopreservation (71% men vs. 15% women, p < .001). Patients with brain tumors and patients without a pretreatment desire for children were less likely to report being informed about potential impact on their fertility and about fertility preservation. In addition, being born outside Sweden was negatively associated with reported receipt of information about impact of cancer treatment on fertility. Among women, older age (>35 years), non-heterosexuality and being a parent were additional factors negatively associated with reported receipt of information about fertility preservation. CONCLUSION There is room for improvement in the equal provision of information about fertility issues to young adult cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Wide
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Wettergren
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Ahlgren
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Regional Cancer Centre Mellansverige, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin E. Smedby
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Hellman
- Department of Gynecologic Cancer, Theme Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roger Henriksson
- Department of Radiation Science and Oncology, University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kenny Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olof Ståhl
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Claudia Lampic
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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23
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Patterson P, Allison KR, Bibby H, Thompson K, Lewin J, Briggs T, Walker R, Osborn M, Plaster M, Hayward A, Henney R, George S, Keuskamp D, Anazodo A. The Australian Youth Cancer Service: Developing and Monitoring the Activity of Nationally Coordinated Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Care. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112675. [PMID: 34071622 PMCID: PMC8198716 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (aged 15-25 years) diagnosed with cancer have unique medical and psychosocial experiences and care needs, distinct from those of paediatric and older adult patients. Since 2011, the Australian Youth Cancer Services have provided developmentally appropriate, multidisciplinary and comprehensive care to these young patients, facilitated by national service coordination and activity data collection and monitoring. This paper reports on how the Youth Cancer Services have conceptualised and delivered quality youth cancer care in four priority areas: clinical trial participation, oncofertility, psychosocial care and survivorship. National activity data collected by the Youth Cancer Services between 2016-17 and 2019-20 are used to illustrate how service monitoring processes have facilitated improvements in coordination and accountability across multiple indicators of quality youth cancer care, including clinical trial participation, access to fertility information and preservation, psychosocial screening and care and the transition from active treatment to survivorship. Accounts of both service delivery and monitoring and evaluation processes within the Australian Youth Cancer Services provide an exemplar of how coordinated initiatives may be employed to deliver, monitor and improve quality cancer care for adolescents and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pandora Patterson
- Research, Evaluation and Policy Unit, CanTeen, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (K.R.A.); (H.B.); (D.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Kimberley R. Allison
- Research, Evaluation and Policy Unit, CanTeen, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (K.R.A.); (H.B.); (D.K.)
| | - Helen Bibby
- Research, Evaluation and Policy Unit, CanTeen, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (K.R.A.); (H.B.); (D.K.)
| | - Kate Thompson
- Victoria/Tasmania Youth Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; (K.T.); (J.L.)
- ONTrac at PeterMac Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jeremy Lewin
- Victoria/Tasmania Youth Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; (K.T.); (J.L.)
- ONTrac at PeterMac Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Taia Briggs
- New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory Youth Cancer Service, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia; (T.B.); (A.A.)
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Rick Walker
- Queensland Youth Cancer Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (R.W.); (R.H.)
- Oncology Services Group, Children’s Health Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Michael Osborn
- South Australia/Northern Territory Youth Cancer Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (M.O.); (A.H.)
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia
| | - Meg Plaster
- Western Australia Youth Cancer Service, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (M.P.); (S.G.)
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Allan Hayward
- South Australia/Northern Territory Youth Cancer Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (M.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Roslyn Henney
- Queensland Youth Cancer Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia; (R.W.); (R.H.)
| | - Shannyn George
- Western Australia Youth Cancer Service, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Dominic Keuskamp
- Research, Evaluation and Policy Unit, CanTeen, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (K.R.A.); (H.B.); (D.K.)
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory Youth Cancer Service, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia; (T.B.); (A.A.)
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia
- School of Women and Children’s Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia
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24
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Schilstra CE, Fardell JE, Burns MA, Ellis SJ, Anazodo AC, Trahair TN, Sansom-Daly UM. Determinants of social functioning among adolescents and young adults with cancer: A systematic review. Psychooncology 2021; 30:1626-1642. [PMID: 34081823 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer report deficits in social functioning relative to healthy peers. Identifying factors related to their social functioning is critical to improve their long-term social outcomes. This review addressed: (1) How is social functioning defined and measured among studies of AYAs who have had cancer? (2) What factors have quantitatively/qualitatively are associated with/predictors of social functioning? and (3) What associated factors/predictors of social functioning are modifiable and amenable to intervention? METHODS A systematic review was conducted to identify publications from 2000 to 2021, meeting these criteria: (1) mean/median age at diagnosis/treatment 13-40, (2) assessed social functioning with a validated measure and included factors associated with/predictive of social functioning and/or qualitatively assessed young people's perceptions of factors related to their social functioning and (3) was peer-reviewed/published in English. RESULTS Thirty-seven publications were included. Definitions and measures of social functioning varied, and factors related to social functioning varied based on definition. Factors most commonly associated with decreased social functioning included treatment status (receiving or completed treatment), poor physical functioning, depression, negative body image, engaging in social comparisons, social/cultural stigma around cancer, and fatigue. Increased social functioning was most commonly associated with social support and the quality/age-appropriateness of care. CONCLUSIONS Social functioning is multidimensional construct for AYAs diagnosed with cancer and may not be adequately assessed with measures of adjustment or quality of life. Future studies should clarify how to optimally define and measure social functioning in this population, to ensure their functioning can be protected and promoted long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa E Schilstra
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Mary A Burns
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia.,School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Sarah J Ellis
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia.,School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Antoinette C Anazodo
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia.,Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Toby N Trahair
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia.,Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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25
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van der Perk MEM, van der Kooi ALLF, van de Wetering MD, IJgosse IM, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Broer SL, Klijn AJ, Versluys AB, Arends B, Oude Ophuis RJA, van Santen HM, van der Steeg AFW, Veening MA, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Bos AME. Oncofertility care for newly diagnosed girls with cancer in a national pediatric oncology setting, the first full year experience from the Princess Máxima Center, the PEARL study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246344. [PMID: 33667234 PMCID: PMC7935241 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood cancer patients often remain uninformed regarding their potential risk of gonadal damage. In our hospital we introduced a five step standard oncofertility care plan for all newly diagnosed female patients aiming to identify, inform and triage 100% of patients and counsel 100% of patients at high risk (HR) of gonadal damage. This observational retrospective study (PEARL study) evaluated the use of this standard oncofertility care plan in the first full year in a national cohort. Methods The steps consist of 1)timely (preferably before start of gonadotoxic treatment) identification of all new patients, 2)triage of gonadal damage risk using a standardized gonadal damage risk stratification tool, 3)informing all patients and families, 4)counseling of a selected subset of girls, and 5) fertility preservation including ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) in HR patients using amended Edinburgh criteria. A survey of the medical records of all girls newly diagnosed with cancer the first year (1-1-2019 until 31-12-2019) was conducted. Results Of 261 girls, 228 (87.4%) were timely identified and triaged. Triage resulted in 151 (66%) low(LR), 32 (14%) intermediate(IR) and 45 (20%) high risk(HR) patients. Ninety-nine families were documented to be timely informed regarding gonadal damage risk. In total, 35 girls (5 LR, 5 IR, 25 HR) were counseled by an oncofertility expert. 16/25 HR patients underwent fertility preservation (1 ovariopexy + OTC, oocyte cryopreservation (1 with and 1 without OTC) and 13 OTC). Fertility preservation did not lead to complications or delay of cancer treatment in any patient. Conclusion We timely identified and triaged most girls (88%) with cancer with a high risk of gonadal damage to be counseled for fertility preservation. We aim to optimize the oncofertility care plan and the standardized gonadal damage risk stratification tool based on this experience and these may be of value to other pediatric oncology centers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Irene M. IJgosse
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Simone L. Broer
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aart J. Klijn
- Pediatric Urology, University Medical Center Utrecht—Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Brigitte Arends
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ralph J. A. Oude Ophuis
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Hanneke M. van Santen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Pediatric Endocrinology, University Medical Center Utrecht—Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Annelies M. E. Bos
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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26
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Anazodo AC, Choi S, Signorelli C, Ellis S, Johnston K, Wakefield CE, Deans R, Neville KA, Cohn RJ. Reproductive Care of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors: A 12-Year Evaluation. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2020; 10:131-141. [PMID: 33180653 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Reproductive complications for cancer survivors are identified as one of the top unmet needs in the survivorship period. However, current models of cancer care do not routinely incorporate reproductive follow-up for pediatric or adolescent cancer patients. The Kids Cancer Centre has had a one-stop survivorship clinic that includes the attendance of a gynecologist and fertility specialist for the last 12 years. Methodology: To inform the future development of our reproductive survivorship care, we reviewed the reproductive care our survivorship clinic has provided over a 12-year period, specifically reviewing the electronic and patient records to collect information on the demographics of the patients who used the service and their gonadotoxic risk and associated fertility treatment, their documented reproductive needs and concerns, and information provided on preventative reproductive advice and screening. Main Results: Two hundred seventy-eight patients were seen (397 consultations) for advice and management of reproductive issues, including 189 female patients (68.0%). Survivors' median age at follow-up was 25.0 years (range = 6-50), on average 19.2 years from their primary diagnosis (range = 3-46). The reviewed data had five overarching themes (fertility care, hormone dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, fertility-related psychological distress due to reproductive concerns, and preventative health care), although each theme had a number of components. Patients had on average 2.5 reproductive concerns documented per consultation (range 1-5). The three most commonly documented symptoms or concerns at the initial consultation related to fertility status (43.9%), endocrine dysfunction (35.3%), and contraception advice (32.4%). In patients younger than 25 years, documented discussions were predominately about endocrine dysfunction, fertility status, and contraception, while dominant themes for 26-35-year olds were fertility status, reproductive-related health prevention strategies, contraception, and endocrine dysfunction. Survivors 36-45 years of age prioritized fertility status, pregnancy, and contraception. Fertility preservation (FP) (p = 0.05), preventative health strategies (p = 0.001), and contraception advice (p < 0.001) were more commonly discussed by females than males. Conclusion: Young cancer survivors have multiple ongoing reproductive concerns that change over time. Assessing survivors' reproductive potential following cancer treatment is important as it gives patients who have not completed their family planning an opportunity to explore a possible window to FP or Assisted Reproductive Treatment. Our data can assist in informing the model of care for a reproductive survivorship clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoinette Catherine Anazodo
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospitals, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sumin Choi
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christina Signorelli
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Ellis
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karen Johnston
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Deans
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kristen A Neville
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard J Cohn
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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27
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Korte E, Schilling R, Balcerek M, Campbell H, Dirksen U, Herrmann G, Kepakova K, Kepak T, Klco-Brosius S, Kruseova J, Kunstreich M, Lackner H, Langer T, Panasiuk A, Stefanowicz J, Strauß G, Ranft A, Byrne J, Goldbeck L, Borgmann-Staudt A. Fertility education for adolescent cancer patients: Gaps in current clinical practice in Europe. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 29:e13279. [PMID: 32567091 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As adolescent cancer patients may suffer from infertility following treatment, fertility counselling is essential. Our aim was to explore the current situation in four European countries in terms of (I) education about the risk for infertility, (II) counselling on fertility preservation, (III) patients' knowledge on fertility, (IV) sufficiency of information and (V) uptake of cryopreservation. METHODS In total, 113 patients (13-20 years) at 11 study centres completed a self-report questionnaire three and six months after cancer diagnosis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS As many as 80.2% of participants reported having received education about the risk for infertility prior to treatment, 73.2% recalled counselling on fertility preservation. Only 52.3% stated they felt sufficiently informed to make a decision. Inability to recall counselling on fertility preservation (OR = 0.03, CI: 0.00-0.47) and female gender (OR = 0.11, CI: 0.03-0.48) was associated with lower use of cryopreservation, whereas older age was associated with higher use. CONCLUSION Fertility counselling was available to a relatively high proportion of patients, and it did influence the utilisation of cryopreservation. However, many patients did not feel sufficiently informed. Further improvement is needed to enable adolescent cancer patients to make an informed decision on fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Korte
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralph Schilling
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Magdalena Balcerek
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, BIH, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Uta Dirksen
- University Hospital Essen Pediatrics III, West German Cancer Centre, Essen, Germany.,German Cancer Research Centre (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gloria Herrmann
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Katerina Kepakova
- University Hospital Brno & International Clinical Research Center (FNUSA-ICRC), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Kepak
- University Hospital Brno & International Clinical Research Center (FNUSA-ICRC), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Marina Kunstreich
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Haematology and Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Herwig Lackner
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Thorsten Langer
- Paediatric Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Joanna Stefanowicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Gabriele Strauß
- Helios Kliniken Berlin-Buch, Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Andreas Ranft
- University Hospital Essen Pediatrics III, West German Cancer Centre, Essen, Germany.,German Cancer Research Centre (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Lutz Goldbeck
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anja Borgmann-Staudt
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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28
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Baysal Ö, Van den Berg M, Beldman F, Braat DDM, Nelen WLDM, Hermens RPMG, Beerendonk CCM. Key recommendations for high-quality female oncofertility care based on international clinical practice guidelines. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:409-422. [PMID: 32057675 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Which guideline-based key recommendations can be selected for high-quality female oncofertility care? DESIGN The Delphi method was used to select a set of key recommendations for female oncofertility care. First, recommendations from (inter)national clinical practice guidelines were selected in four domains: risk communication, referral, counselling and decision-making. Thereafter, they were scored, per domain, on their importance for high-quality oncofertility care by a multidisciplinary, oncofertility expert panel, consisting of patients, referrers and counsellors, in two Delphi rounds. Finally, the selected key recommendations were presented for approval in a third round. Differences in perspectives between subgroups of the expert panel were analysed. RESULTS A panel of 86 experts was asked to select key recommendations for high-quality oncofertility care. Eleven key recommendations were selected. Key recommendations in the domains risk communication and referral focused on information provision and offering referral to a reproductive specialist to female cancer patients. With the counselling domain, key recommendations focused on all aspects of counselling, including different methods, safety, pros and cons. In the decision-making domain, key recommendations focused on shared decision-making and supporting the decision with written information. The final set of key recommendations was approved by 91% of the experts. Differences in perspectives were found between subgroups. Patients found recommendations on decision-making and information provision more important. CONCLUSION A set of 11 key recommendations for high-quality female oncofertility care was selected by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The involvement of the perspectives of patients, referrers and counsellors led to this valid, acceptable and credible set of key recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Baysal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands.
| | - Michelle Van den Berg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands
| | - Floor Beldman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands
| | - Didi D M Braat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands
| | - Willianne L D M Nelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands
| | - Rosella P M G Hermens
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina C M Beerendonk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen 6500 HB, the Netherlands
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29
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Robson D, Phua C, Howard R, Marren A. Fertility preservation in oncology patients: A literature review examining current fertility preservation techniques and access to oncofertility services in Australia. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2019; 60:18-26. [PMID: 31617210 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Australia, between the years 2010 and 2014, over 4500 adolescents and young adults (15-25 years old) were diagnosed with cancer. Treatment regimens are often gonadotoxic and are well known to induce ovarian and testicular failure. Oncofertility is an emerging discipline in obstetrics and gynaecology which seeks to preserve and restore the reproductive future of cancer patients. AIM To perform a systematic literature review to assess the current fertility preservation techniques available to patients and examine access and uptake of fertility preservation in Australia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Electronic databases, including Medline, Cochrane Review, SCOPUS and CINHAL, were searched for peer-reviewed publications and national guidelines examining oncofertility practices from 2008 to July 2018. Three hundred and seventy-five articles were initially screened, with 158 articles for full text review and an additional five clinical guidelines were identified. RESULTS There is a paucity of Australian data on oncofertility with <50% of data included for analysis reflecting the Australian experience. The majority of primary research included retrospective papers with small cohort numbers. Key areas addressed included live birth outcomes, uptake of services and patient and physician perspectives on fertility preservation. Few articles sought to examine the positive and negative side effects of fertility preservation in oncology, social challenges of oncofertility and access to services worldwide. CONCLUSION Oncofertility is an emerging discipline which seeks to provide safe, efficient and effective fertility preservation options for young adults and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. A multi-disciplinary approach with collaborative communication with oncologists is key to providing this service within Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Robson
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for Women and Babies, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cheryl Phua
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for Women and Babies, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Genea LTD, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn Howard
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for Women and Babies, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Marren
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for Women and Babies, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Genea LTD, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Institute of Academic Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital & the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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30
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Randomized controlled trial on the effect of an online decision aid for young female cancer patients regarding fertility preservation. Hum Reprod 2019; 34:1726-1734. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
Does the use of an online decision aid (DA) about fertility preservation (FP), in addition to standard counselling by a specialist in reproductive medicine, reduce decisional conflict compared to standard counselling alone?
Summary answer
Female cancer patients who could make use of the online DA had a significantly lower short-term decisional conflict score.
What is known already
Nowadays, female cancer patients have several options for preserving fertility, but having to decide whether to opt for FP within a short time frame after cancer diagnosis and before the start of treatment is challenging. According to previous studies focussing mainly on breast cancer patients, decisional conflict among these women is high, and they have expressed the need for additional support.
Study design, size, duration
The study was a randomized controlled trial including female cancer patients who were referred by their treating oncologist to a specialist in reproductive medicine for fertility counselling. Participants were randomly assigned to the control group (counselling only) or to the intervention group (counselling and additional use of the online DA immediately after counselling). Recruitment was ongoing from July 2016 to December 2017 at eight fertility centres in Switzerland and Germany.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
The online DA was developed by an interdisciplinary team of specialists in reproductive medicine, gynaecologists, oncologists and psychologists. Of 79 recruited participants, 59 completed the first assessment and could therefore be enrolled in the study. They were asked to complete an online questionnaire at three time points: at T1, after counselling (control group, n = 27) or after counselling and the additional use of the DA (intervention group, n = 24); at T2, 1 month later (N = 41: control group, n = 23; intervention group, n = 18); and at T3, 12 months later (N = 37: control group, n = 20; intervention group, n = 17). The survey comprised questions about fertility-related knowledge, attitude towards FP, willingness to undergo FP and socio-demographic data, as well as the decisional conflict and decisional regret scales.
Main results and the role of chance
All participants showed low decisional conflict scores. Women who used the online DA in addition to counselling (intervention group) showed a significantly lower total score on the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) compared to the control group at T1 (P = 0.008; M = 12.15, SD = 4.38; 95% CI, 3.35–20.95) and at T2 (P = 0.043; M = 9.35, SD = 4.48; 95% CI, 0.31–18.38). At T3, the mean total score of the DCS was still lower in the intervention group compared to the control group; however, this group difference was no longer significant (P = 0.199, M = 6.86, SD = 5.24; 95% CI, −3.78 to 17.51). The majority of participants had already made a decision regarding FP (yes or no) at T1 (72.5%): 91.7% in the intervention group compared to 55.6% in the control group (P = 0.014). Those who had decided already at T1 showed significantly lower decisional conflict (P = 0.007; M = 13.69, SD = 4.89; 95% CI, 3.86–23.52). The average number of DA sessions per user was 2.23, and 80.8% of the participants completed the DA’s value clarification exercises. Participants in the intervention group were satisfied with the DA and would recommend it to other patients.
Limitations, reasons for caution
The recruitment of participants was challenging because of the emotionally difficult situation patients were in. This led to the limited sample size for final analysis. Education levels were high in two-thirds of the participants. It is difficult to say whether the DA would be equally effective in women with a lower educational background.
Wider implications of the findings
There is evidence that the DA served as a helpful complement to the decision-making process for young female cancer patients qualifying for FP. This is, to our knowledge, the first randomized controlled trial evaluating a DA targeted at patients with several cancer types and in a language other than English (i.e. German). This study contributes to extending the range of the still limited number of DAs in the context of FP.
Study funding/competing interest(s)
The study was supported by a research grant of the Swiss Cancer Research. The authors declare that no competing interests exist.
Trial registration number
Clinicaltrials.gov, trial no. NCT02404883.
Trial registration date
19 March 2015
Date of first patient’s enrolment
4 July 2016
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31
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Fertility preservation in patients with hematologic malignancies and recipients of hematopoietic cell transplants. Blood 2019; 134:746-760. [PMID: 31292116 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2018846790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with hematologic malignancies and those undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) face a complex set of challenges when considering options for fertility preservation (FP). There are no standard options for prepubertal children, and women with hematologic malignancies may not be eligible for standard FP options. Fortunately, initial therapies for most blood cancers are not highly gonadotoxic, affording an important opportunity for postremission counseling and referrals to fertility specialists. These patients face a high risk of relapse, and many will be referred for autologous or allogeneic HCT, which carries an extremely high risk of infertility. The expanding indications for HCT to include benign hematologic disorders as well as autoimmune diseases mandate that all hematologists are familiar with these risks. Oncofertility researchers are continually pushing the boundaries of what may be possible for our patients; in the meantime, communication and shared decision-making between hematologists and patients, as well as program-building, education, and outreach are essential to ensure that these patients, many of whom will be cured, maintain all of their options for a fulfilling life after intensive therapy.
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32
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Young K, Shliakhtsitsava K, Natarajan L, Myers E, Dietz AC, Gorman JR, Martínez ME, Whitcomb BW, Su HI. Fertility counseling before cancer treatment and subsequent reproductive concerns among female adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Cancer 2018; 125:980-989. [PMID: 30489638 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility counseling before cancer treatment has been advocated by clinical guidelines, though little is known about its long-term impact on the unique reproductive concerns of female adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. The goal of this study was to measure the association between fertility counseling by fertility specialists before cancer treatment and subsequent reproductive concerns. METHOD A cross-sectional analysis was performed among 747 AYA survivors aged 18-40 years who had been recruited from cancer registries and physician and advocacy group referrals between 2015 and 2017. Participants self-reported information on past fertility counseling at cancer diagnosis, cancer type and treatment, and current reproductive concerns, as measured using the multidimensional Reproductive Concerns After Cancer scale. Multivariable log-binomial regression models tested associations between fertility counseling and reproductive concerns. RESULTS The mean age of the cohort was 33.0 years (standard deviation, 5.1 years), and the mean period since diagnosis was 7.7 years (standard deviation, 5.0 years). Seventy-three percent of participants were white, and 24% were Hispanic. Fertility counseling was reported by 19% of survivors; moderate to high overall reproductive concerns were reported by 44% of participants. In adjusted analysis, fertility counseling was significantly associated with moderate to high reproductive concerns (risk ratio, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.45) and not modified by exposure to fertility-threatening treatments (Pinteraction = .23). CONCLUSION A large proportion of AYA cancer survivors across cancer types and treatment exposures reported moderate to high reproductive concerns, suggesting that there is a need to address these cancer-specific reproductive health concerns after treatment. Higher concerns, even with counseling, suggests the need to improve the quality of fertility counseling throughout the cancer continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Young
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Ksenya Shliakhtsitsava
- Department of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Loki Natarajan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Emily Myers
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Andrew C Dietz
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Jessica R Gorman
- School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
| | - María Elena Martínez
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Brian W Whitcomb
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - H Irene Su
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
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33
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Anazodo A, Ataman-Millhouse L, Jayasinghe Y, Woodruff TK. Oncofertility-An emerging discipline rather than a special consideration. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e27297. [PMID: 29972282 PMCID: PMC6150802 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Originally absent from the oncologist's consult, then placed in a 'quality of life' rubric, oncofertility should now be an essential part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan in patients of reproductive age, including adolescents and young adults (AYAs). Oncofertility encompasses the endocrine health of the patient, as well as fertility management options. Thus, pubertal transitions in males and females, bone health, and menstrual health are all part of this discipline, enabling practitioners to work in interdisciplinary teams to solve problems in reproductive health. This review provides a summary of the essential considerations required for the assessement of reproductive risk and choice of fertility preservation options as well as considerations for developing oncofertility services for AYAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoinette Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Women’s and Children’s Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney
| | - Lauren Ataman-Millhouse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yasmin Jayasinghe
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology University of Melbourne Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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