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Cunningham JM, Ferraro K, Durfee J, Indovina KA. Social Determinants of Health Impacting the Experience of Young Adults With Cancer at a Single Community Urban Hospital: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Patient Exp 2024; 11:23743735241255450. [PMID: 38765223 PMCID: PMC11100384 DOI: 10.1177/23743735241255450] [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] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients receive palliative medicine consultation at a late stage and face diagnostic delays. Failure to address social determinants of health (SDOH) and AYA-specific needs can adversely impact patient experience. This retrospective observational cohort study used data from chart review to assess the frequency of SDOH impacting AYA patients and setting of initial diagnosis at a US urban safety-net hospital. The association of SDOH variables with delays in treatment, loss of follow-up, and no-shows was tested using Chi-square and t-tests. One hundred seventy five patient charts were reviewed. Sixty-two percent were diagnosed in acute care settings. Substance use disorders, financial, employment, and insurance issues were associated with delayed treatment, with weak to moderate effect sizes. Mental health diagnoses, substance use disorder, homelessness, and financial burdens were associated with patient no-shows, with moderate to large effect sizes. Twenty-five percent of patients received palliative medicine consultation; 70% of these occurred at end of life. This study demonstrates the impact of SDOH on AYA cancer care and the need for policy allowing for intervention on SDOH.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Cunningham
- Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kelly Ferraro
- Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Joshua Durfee
- Center for Health Systems Research, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Kimberly A Indovina
- Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
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Fernando RA. Improving Supportive and Palliative Care Integration in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:271-280. [PMID: 37878271 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0096] [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] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Timely supportive and palliative care (SPC) integration in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer management is recommended in curative and palliative settings. However, multiple barriers exist to implementing this goal. Liverpool Cancer Therapy Center (LCTC) serviced a growing AYA (15-39 years) population without AYA-dedicated services and the vast majority receiving no SPC engagement. Concerned this was placing AYA patients' wellbeing at risk, we determined a cultural change was required and that the newly established AYA Supportive and Palliative Care (AYASPC) Service could facilitate this. Methods: The AYASPC Service conducted a 6-month quality improvement project aiming to increase its referrals from a baseline average of one per month to four per month, to increase confidence in making SPC referrals and to enhance appreciation for specialized AYA care. Interventions included formalizing an AYASPC referral pathway with broad indications, and educating clinicians on holistic AYA care, the AYASPC Service's model of care (MoC) and AYASPC referral benefits. Results: During the project, 27 AYASPC referrals were made. Referrals consistently exceeded the Service's baseline, and from 3 months onward exceeded the project target. Additionally, referrals were made earlier (29.6% at diagnosis), for a variety of cancer diagnoses with varied prognoses, and for indications beyond traditional issues of complex symptoms and end-of-life care. Clinicians also expressed greater confidence in supporting AYAs and making SPC referrals. Conclusion: In a brief timeframe, the AYASPC Service's innovative and adaptable MoC and project interventions sustainably improved AYASPC access and affected a positive cultural shift around AYA care and advocacy.
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Gupta S, Li Q, Kassam A, Rapoport A, Widger K, Chalifour K, Baxter NN, Nathan PC, Coburn NG, Sutradhar R. Specialty Palliative Care and Symptom Severity and Control in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2338699. [PMID: 37862015 PMCID: PMC10589816 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.38699] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience substantial symptom burden. Specialty palliative care (SPC) is recommended but often not involved or involved late. Objectives To determine whether patient-reported symptom severity was associated with subsequent SPC involvement and whether SPC was associated with symptom improvement in AYAs with cancer. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study comprised AYAs (aged 15-29 years) with primary cancer diagnosed between January 1, 2010, and June 30, 2018, in Ontario, Canada. Data, including self-reported Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) scores, were obtained from health care databases. Specialty palliative care was identified through billing codes and validated algorithms. Final data analysis was performed on April 4, 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures Associations of ESAS scores with subsequent SPC involvement were determined. A difference-in-differences approach was used for patients who died within 5 years of their cancer diagnosis. Case patients (SPC predeath, index date equals first SPC service) were matched 1:1 to control patients (no SPC at equivalent time before death). The study examined whether the difference between 90-day postindex and preindex mean ESAS scores was itself different between case and control patients. Results This study included 5435 AYAs with cancer, with a median follow-up of 5.1 (IQR, 2.5-7.9) years for analyses of general palliative care. Their median age at cancer diagnosis was 25 (IQR, 22-27) years, and more than half were male (2809 [51.7%]). For all symptoms, moderate and severe ESAS scores were associated with an increased likelihood of SPC involvement compared with mild scores. The greatest magnitude of association was seen for pain scores (hazard ratio for severe vs mild, 7.7 [95% CI, 5.8-10.2]; P < .001). A total of 721 AYAs (13.3%) died within 5 years of diagnosis, and 612 of these patients (84.9%) had received SPC before death. Among 202 case-control pairs, SPC involvement was associated with improved pain trajectories (mean scores improved from 3.41 to 3.07 in case patients and worsened from 1.86 to 2.16 in control patients; P = .003). Other symptom trajectories were not affected. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study of AYAs with cancer, those reporting moderate or severe symptoms through a screening program were more likely to subsequently receive SPC. These findings suggest that SPC was associated with a subsequent decrease in pain severity but did not affect other symptoms. New interventions targeting other symptoms during treatment and particularly at the end of life are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Gupta
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Evaluation and Management, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Qing Li
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alisha Kassam
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam Rapoport
- Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Emily’s House Children’s Hospice, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberley Widger
- Paediatric Advanced Care Team, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karine Chalifour
- Young Adult Cancer Canada, St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Nancy N. Baxter
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Evaluation and Management, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul C. Nathan
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Evaluation and Management, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natalie G. Coburn
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- Cancer Research Program, ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Evaluation and Management, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Drake EK, Weeks LE, van Manen M, Shin HD, Wong H, Taylor D, McKibbon S, Curran J. The Delivery of Palliative and End-of-Life Care to Adolescents and Young Adults Living with Cancer: A Scoping Review. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2023; 12:611-624. [PMID: 37155194 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0013] [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] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary purpose of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the existing evidence on the delivery of palliative and end-of-life care to adolescents and young adults (AYAs) living with cancer, by identifying knowledge gaps and discussing the key characteristics and types of evidence in this field. This study employed a JBI scoping review design. CINAHL (EBSCO), Embase (Elsevier), MEDLINE (Ovid), APA PsycINFO (EBSCO), and Web of Science (Science Citation Index Expanded and Social Sciences Citation Index; Clarivate Analytics) databases were searched along with grey literature sources to February 2022 for related studies on the delivery of palliative and end-of-life care to AYAs. No search restrictions were applied. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles for eligibility, and they extracted data from studies that met the inclusion criteria. A total of 29,394 records were identified through our search strategy and 51 studies met the inclusion criteria of the study. The studies were published between 2004 and 2022, with the majority from North America (65%). The included studies involved patient, healthcare provider, caregiver, and public stakeholders. Their primary foci were often on end-of-life outcomes (41%) and/or advance care planning/end-of-life priorities and decision-making (35%). This review identified several evidence gaps within the field, including a focus primarily on patients who have died. Findings highlight the need for more collaborative research with AYAs on their experiences with palliative and end-of-life care, as well as their involvement as patient partners in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Drake
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, Canada
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- Aligning Health Needs with Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Halifax, Canada
| | - Lori E Weeks
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- Aligning Health Needs with Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Halifax, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Canada
| | - Michael van Manen
- John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Hwayeon Danielle Shin
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Centre for Complex Care Interventions, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Helen Wong
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Dani Taylor
- Patient Partner, St. John's, Canada
- Young Adult Cancer Canada, St. John's, Canada
| | - Shelley McKibbon
- Aligning Health Needs with Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Halifax, Canada
- W.K. Kellogg Health Sciences Library, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Janet Curran
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, Canada
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
- Aligning Health Needs with Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A Joanna Briggs Institute Centre of Excellence, Halifax, Canada
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Gupta S, Li Q, Nathan PC, D'Agostino N, Baxter NN, Fox C, Chalifour K, Coburn N, Sutradhar R. Prevalence, severity, and predictors of symptom burden among adolescents and young adults with cancer. Cancer Med 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
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Steineck A, Bradford MC, O'Daffer A, Fladeboe KM, O'Donnell MB, Scott S, Yi-Frazier JP, Rosenberg AR. Quality of Life in Adolescents and Young Adults: The Role of Symptom Burden. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:244-253.e2. [PMID: 35649460 PMCID: PMC9378571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer report worse health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than other age groups. Symptom burden is a modifiable predictor of HRQOL. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to identify which symptoms are most burdensome to AYAs with advanced cancer. METHODS In this observational study, English-speaking individuals aged 12-25 years undergoing treatment for advanced cancer completed assessments of symptom burden (Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale) and HRQOL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Form and Cancer Module; minimal clinically important difference 4.4). We dichotomized participants as having low (<7) or high (≥7) symptom prevalence. Mixed regression models estimated HRQOL differences between groups. For individual symptoms, unadjusted mixed models estimated HRQOL reductions. RESULTS N = 58 AYAs completed baseline surveys. The median age was 17 years (IQR 15-19), 58% were male, 59% identified as white, and 44% were diagnosed with leukemia/lymphoma. High symptom prevalence was associated with a mean generic HRQOL 7 points lower (95% CI: -11, -3; P < 0.01) and cancer-specific HRQOL score 12 points lower (95% CI: -17, -7; P < 0.01) than low symptom prevalence. The most prevalent symptoms were fatigue (71%), pain (58%), and difficulty sleeping (58%). Fatigue (-8), difficulty concentrating (-7), and mouth sores (-6) were associated with the greatest generic HRQOL score reductions. Dysphagia (-12), difficulty concentrating (-12), and sadness (-11) were associated with the greatest cancer-specific HRQOL score reductions. CONCLUSION The symptom experience among AYAs with advanced cancer is unique. Separate evaluation of AYA's symptoms may optimize management and improve HRQOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Steineck
- Seattle Children's Hospital (A.S.), Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington School of Medicine (A.S.), Department of Pediatrics, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington (A.S., K.M.F., M.B.O., A.R.R.), Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Seattle, Washington, USA; MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (A.S.), Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Miranda C Bradford
- Core for Biostatistics (M.C.B.), Epidemiology, and Analytics in Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alison O'Daffer
- Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kaitlyn M Fladeboe
- Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington (A.S., K.M.F., M.B.O., A.R.R.), Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maeve B O'Donnell
- Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington (A.S., K.M.F., M.B.O., A.R.R.), Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Samantha Scott
- Department of Psychology (S.S.), University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Joyce P Yi-Frazier
- Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Seattle Children's Hospital (A.S.), Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute (A.S., A.O., K.M.F., M.B.O., J.P.Y-F., A.R.R.), Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington School of Medicine (A.S.), Department of Pediatrics, Seattle, Washington, USA; University of Washington (A.S., K.M.F., M.B.O., A.R.R.), Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Wallis A, Meredith P, Stanley M. Occupational therapy in oncology palliative care for adolescents and young adults: Perspectives of Australian occupational therapists. Aust Occup Ther J 2021; 69:165-176. [PMID: 34961958 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12780] [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: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Palliative Care Australia suggests current needs (emotional wellbeing, understanding of cancers impact on relationships, everyday activities, and life milestones) for adolescent and young adults in palliative care are unmet due to a lack of age-specific palliative care facilities in Australia. This includes the provision of occupational therapy that can impact these unmet needs. Although the occupational therapy role in palliative care has been documented, little is known about existing occupational therapy services or occupational needs for young people with palliative care needs. The aims of this study were to obtain occupational therapists insights of working with this population in Australia regarding (1) gaps in palliative care services for this population; (2) facilitators and challenges to providing occupational therapy for this group; and (3) perceived occupational needs of young people living with a life-limiting cancer diagnosis. METHODS Using snowball sampling, an online survey was distributed to occupational therapists with experience working in palliative cancer care with adolescents and young adults. Available for 6 weeks, the survey included demographic, work history, and service delivery questions. Forced-choice questions were summarised descriptively, and content analysis was used to analyse free-text data. RESULTS Eleven completed surveys were returned. Overall, therapists perceived current palliative care services for this population within Australia to be lacking. Two gaps emerged: age-appropriate facilities and gaps in provision of psycho-social and occupational therapy services. Funding, lack of knowledge of the occupational therapy role, and professional confidence were highlighted as challenges to practice. Main occupational needs related to maintenance of as "normal" a life as possible: maintaining occupational role engagement, continuing connection with others, and being heard regarding their occupational needs. CONCLUSION Findings suggest a need for service changes, including custom-designed facilities, improved funding, training and mentoring, to support age-appropriate and occupation-focussed care for the young person in cancer-specific palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Wallis
- Edith Cowan University, Western Australia, Australia.,Central Queensland University, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Mandy Stanley
- Edith Cowan University, Western Australia, Australia
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Katz NT, Le BH, Berger I, Lewin J, Thompson K, Pitt H, Philip J. A Descriptive Cohort Study of Adolescent and Young Adult Decedents Known to an Australian Comprehensive Cancer Center. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:535-539. [PMID: 34874784 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0167] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Australia, cancer is the second leading cause of death in adolescents and young adults (AYA). In an audit of 76 AYA decedents known to a comprehensive cancer center, most were male (63%), and most had a parent as primary carer (78%). Median age at diagnosis was 21 years (range: 15-27). Median time from diagnosis to first palliative care consultation was 9 months, and from first palliative care review to death, 4 months. Location of death was hospital (41%), home (24%), and palliative care unit (16%). Eleven (65%) of 17 patients who wished to die at home achieved this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi T Katz
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Palliative Care Service, Alfred Health, Victorian Pediatric Palliative Care Program, Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brian H Le
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ilana Berger
- ONTrac at Peter Mac, Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jeremy Lewin
- ONTrac at Peter Mac, Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer, Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate Thompson
- ONTrac at Peter Mac, Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer, Department of Social Work, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Holly Pitt
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer Philip
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Palliative Care Service, St. Vincent's Hospital, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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"When Will I Feel Normal?": Disorienting Grief Responses Among Young Adults With Advanced Cancer. Cancer Nurs 2021; 45:E355-E363. [PMID: 34183519 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000000977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of an advanced cancer during young adulthood frequently entails the loss of confidence in physical function, as well as the certainty of achieving future social, vocational, and existential aspirations. These losses leave young adults with tenuous holds on facets of their life that foster hope and meaning. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the unique physical and psychosocial-spiritual losses and patterns of grief responses among young adults living with advanced cancer. INTERVENTIONS/METHODS Theoretical sampling led to the recruitment of 13 young adults, ages 23 to 38 years, diagnosed with stage III or IV cancer. Participants completed 1 semistructured interview, a timeline of pivotal moments throughout their illness, and a sociodemographic survey. Glaser's grounded theory methods informed the study design and analysis. RESULTS Young adults displayed patterns of disorienting grief, which left them bereft of almost all familiar facets of their pretrauma lives and identities. Disorienting physical and psychosocial-spiritual losses presented in the following subcategories: disorientation to all aspects of former life, lost identity, and isolation. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study reveal a novel framework from which to interpret grief experiences among young adults living with advanced cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE The implementation of grief assessments and interventions during pivotal stages in young adults' cancer treatment and recovery may ameliorate psychological distress and normalize perceptions of life disruptions. Nursing education before treatment initiation and termination can reduce young adults' fears surrounding unfamiliar symptoms and prepare them for the physical and emotional uncertainties that often accompany remission or end-of-life.
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Burgers VWG, van der Graaf WTA, van der Meer DJ, McCabe MG, Rijneveld AW, van den Bent MJ, Husson O. Adolescents and Young Adults Living With an Uncertain or Poor Cancer Prognosis: The "New" Lost Tribe. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2021; 19:240-246. [PMID: 33668023 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2020.7696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Historically, adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer, diagnosed for the first time at age 15 through 39 years, have often been identified as a "lost tribe" without a medical "home"; neither pediatric nor adult oncology services were able to provide age-appropriate care to this specific group. Internationally, AYA care programs are being established to bridge the gap between the age-defined healthcare worlds and to address the specific needs of AYAs with cancer. However, AYA care programs mostly focus on improving cure rates and addressing survivorship issues, and direct less attention to the unique needs of those living with an uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis. Additionally, palliative care services are typically poorly equipped to address the age-specific needs of this group. Given that increasingly more AYAs with an uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis are gaining life years because of novel treatments, and sometimes even face the prospect of long-term disease control, AYA care programs should address the unique palliative care needs of this "new" lost tribe within AYA oncology. This report provides a definition and description of the AYA population living with an uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis in terms of epidemiologic, clinical, and psychosocial characteristics and challenges, and provides perspectives for future research and care initiatives. It also highlights the need to comprehensively examine the experience of AYAs who are living with uncertain and/or poor cancer prognosis to adjust best care practices for this unique group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian W G Burgers
- 1Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute.,2Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, and
| | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- 2Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, and.,3Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Daniël J van der Meer
- 1Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute.,2Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, and
| | - Martin G McCabe
- 4Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Martin J van den Bent
- 6Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; and
| | - Olga Husson
- 1Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute.,2Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, Amsterdam, and.,7Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Supporting the Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults: Integrated Palliative Care and Psychiatry Clinic for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040770. [PMID: 33673202 PMCID: PMC7918814 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience a high level of distress and have unique unmet palliative and supportive care needs. There is limited knowledge about the symptom burden, quality of life, and type of care that AYA patients receive. In 2017, a dedicated AYA-specialized palliative care clinic was established at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Canada, with a collaborative approach between palliative care and psychiatry. This study aims to describe the demographics and symptoms burden of AYA cancer patients who attended the integrated palliative care and psychiatry clinic, measure the impact of the clinic on AYAs’ symptom control, and examine their end-of-life outcomes. Abstract Clinical guidelines aimed at cancer care for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) encourage early integration of palliative care, yet there are scarce data to support these recommendations. We conducted a retrospective chart review of AYA patients, aged 15 to 39 years, who were referred to the Integrated AYA Palliative Care and Psychiatry Clinic (IAPCPC) at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre between May 2017 and November 2019 (n = 69). Demographic data, symptom prevalence, change in symptom scores between baseline consultation and first follow-up, and intensity of end-of-life care were collected from the patients’ medical charts, analyzed, and reported. Of the 69 patients, 59% were female, and sarcoma was the most common cancer. A majority of patients had at least one symptom scored as moderate to severe; tiredness, pain, and sleep problems were the highest scored symptoms. More than one-third used medical cannabis to manage their symptoms. Symptom scores improved in 61% after the first clinic visit. Out of the 69 patients, 50 (72.5%) had died by October 2020, with a median time between the initial clinic referral and death of 5 months (range 1–32). Three patients (6%) received chemotherapy, and eight (16%) were admitted to an intensive care unit during the last month of life. In conclusion, AYAs with advanced cancer have a high burden of palliative and psychosocial symptoms. Creating a specialized AYA palliative care clinic integrated with psychiatry showed promising results in improving symptom scores and end-of-life planning.
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Avery J, Mosher PJ, Kassam A, Srikanthan A, D'Agostino N, Zimmermann C, Castaldo Y, Aubrey R, Rodrigues CM, Thavaratnam A, Samadi M, Al-Awamer A, Gupta A. Young Adult Experience in an Outpatient Interdisciplinary Palliative Care Cancer Clinic. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e1451-e1461. [PMID: 32903156 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Young adults (YAs; defined as 18-39 years of age) with advanced cancer are a group for whom standardized age-appropriate palliative care has not been established. The purpose of this study was to explore the YA experience and perceptions of palliative care in an outpatient interdisciplinary palliative care clinic for this population. PATIENTS AND METHODS Using an interpretive descriptive design, semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 YAs with advanced cancer who were being seen jointly by a palliative care physician and psychiatrist in an ambulatory palliative care clinic. Interviews explored participants' understanding and experiences of receiving palliative care. Six family members were also interviewed to build on the YA experience. Data collection and analysis occurred concurrently, drawing on the constructivist grounded theory method to analyze the data. RESULTS Participants described being referred to and seen in the interdisciplinary palliative care clinic as a conflicting and at times difficult experience because of the feeling of being categorized as palliative as YAs. Even so, there were key aspects associated with the specific palliative care approach that allowed YAs to cope with this new label, leading to a beneficial experience, specifically: provided YAs with time and space to explore the experience of having cancer at a younger age, created repeat opportunities to talk openly with people who "got it," and highlighted the importance of including family support in the care of YAs. CONCLUSION YAs who were referred to the interdisciplinary palliative care clinic struggled with the category of palliative care but also found the care they received beneficial. Findings provide an approach to palliative care tailored to YAs with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Avery
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pamela J Mosher
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alisha Kassam
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Norma D'Agostino
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yan Castaldo
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel Aubrey
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Caroline M Rodrigues
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrian Thavaratnam
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mahsa Samadi
- Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ahmed Al-Awamer
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abha Gupta
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Mitchell L, Tam S, Gupta AA. Crucial Conversations: Addressing Informational Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults Diagnosed With Cancer. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2019; 22:483-486. [PMID: 30239526 DOI: 10.1188/18.cjon.483-486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer aged 15-39 years have unique medical, psychosocial, and informational needs. At the time of diagnosis, they are often going through important life milestones, such as establishing their independence, attending school or work, and maintaining romantic and/or family relationships. This article describes some of the critical time points for AYAs with cancer and the resources available to support the nursing profession in meeting the unique care needs of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mitchell
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre at the University of Toronto
| | - Seline Tam
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre at the University of Toronto
| | - Abha A Gupta
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre at the University of Toronto
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Cappell K, Sundaram V, Park A, Shiraz P, Gupta R, Jenkins P, Periyakoil VSJ, Muffly L. Advance Directive Utilization Is Associated with Less Aggressive End-of-Life Care in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2018; 24:1035-1040. [PMID: 29371107 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, making advance care planning (ACP) and management especially important in this patient population. A paucity of data exists on the utilization of ACP among allogeneic HCT recipients and the relationship between ACP and intensity of healthcare utilization in these patients. We performed a retrospective review of patients receiving allogeneic HCT at our institution from 2008 to 2015 who had subsequently died after HCT. Documentation and timing of advance directive (AD) completion were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Outcomes of interest included use of intensive care unit (ICU) level of care at any time point after HCT, within 30 days of death, and within 14 days of death; use of mechanical ventilation at any time after HCT; and location of death. Univariate logistic regression was performed to explore associations between AD completion and each outcome. Of the 1031 patients who received allogeneic HCT during the study period, 422 decedents (41%) were included in the analysis. Forty-four percent had AD documentation prior to death. Most patients (69%) indicated that if terminally ill, they did not wish to be subjected to life-prolonging treatment attempts. Race/ethnicity was significantly associated with AD documentation, with non-Hispanic white patients documenting ADs more frequently (51%) compared with Hispanic (22%) or Asian patients (35%; P = .0007). Patients with ADs were less likely to use the ICU during the transplant course (41% for patients with ADs versus 52% of patients without ADs; P = .03) and also were less likely to receive mechanical ventilation at any point after transplantation (21% versus 37%, P < .001). AD documentation was also associated with decreased ICU use at the end of life; relative to patients without ADs, patients with ADs were more likely to die at home or in hospital as opposed to in the ICU (odds ratio, .44; 95% confidence interval, .27 to .72). ACP remains underused in allogeneic HCT. Adoption of a systematic practice to standardize AD documentation as part of allogeneic HCT planning has the potential to significantly reduce ICU use and mechanical ventilation while improving quality of care at end of life in HCT recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Cappell
- Department of Medicine, Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Vandana Sundaram
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Annie Park
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California
| | - Parveen Shiraz
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California
| | - Ridhi Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Patricia Jenkins
- Department of Medicine, Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | | | - Lori Muffly
- Department of Medicine, Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University, Stanford, California.
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Abstract
The palliative care approach for survivors begins with comprehensive assessment of communication and advance care planning needs and the physical, psychological and psychiatric, social, spiritual and religious, and cultural domains. Communication and decision-making about difficult issues should include responding to emotions, planning for future communication needs, and considering reasons for miscommunication. Key palliative approaches to symptom management include addressing physical and psychosocial concerns, and using nonpharmacologic approaches first or together with medications. Physicians should address advance care planning in older cancer survivors and those at significant risk of recurrence and mortality, ideally through ongoing conversations in a longitudinal care relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney M Dy
- Primary Care for Cancer Survivors Program, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Room 609, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21209, USA.
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Department of Health Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Room 609, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21209, USA
| | - Nebras Abu Al Hamayel
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Room 609, 624 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21209, USA
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