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Cheung CK, Lee H, Francis-Levin N, Choi E, Geng Y, Thomas BN, Roman VA, Roth ME. Provider preparedness to care for sexual and gender minority adolescent and young adult cancer patients: A scoping review. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 5:100343. [PMID: 39346774 PMCID: PMC11437872 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Objective The purpose of the current scoping review is to explore knowledge and gaps in the literature on the preparedness of health care providers (HCPs) to deliver cancer care that addresses the needs of sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients diagnosed with cancer between ages 15-39 years. Methods We conducted two comprehensive searches on OVID MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL in February 2022 and June 2024; examined the empirical literature on HCPs who treat SGM AYA cancer patients; characterized existing research; and evaluated each contribution. Results A total of thirteen articles were included in the final review. The reviewed studies varied widely in sample sizes (n = 6 to n = 1253), reflecting different methodological approaches: quantitative cross-sectional (n = 3), qualitative (n = 4), and mixed methods (n = 6). Innovation The current scoping review piloted an innovative Quality Assessment (QA) Tool of Foundational Progress for SGM AYA Research to assess the quality of evidence, providing a new framework for evaluating and guiding future research. Conclusion The existing literature on provider preparedness to care for SGM AYA cancer patients is limited. Future studies are critically needed to improve providers' ability to holistically respond to the unique health care needs and concerns of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christabel K Cheung
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Haelim Lee
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nina Francis-Levin
- University of Michigan Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Eunju Choi
- University of Texas Department of Nursing and MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yimin Geng
- Research Medical Library, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bria N Thomas
- Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Michael E Roth
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Gorman JR, Corey SL, Ginavan I, Garcia J. "Just for pregnant women, not for you": a qualitative evaluation of the sexual and reproductive healthcare experiences of transgender and gender diverse cancer survivors. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01633-z. [PMID: 38980652 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01633-z] [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: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify opportunities to improve sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) cancer survivors by describing (1) challenges experienced when navigating SRH care and (2) strategies to help overcome these challenges. METHODS We enrolled a purposive sample of 17 adult TGD cancer survivors and 5 co-survivors. We aimed for a diverse sample across cancer experience, age, racial/ethnic background, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We conducted 90-min individual interviews via videoconference and used reflexive thematic analysis, guided by a focus on three social determinants of health. RESULTS Themes describing challenges were as follows: (1) Cancer treatment's impact on sexual health was insufficiently addressed by cancer care providers; (2) fertility-related information and conversations were complicated by gendered expectations and ultimately did not meet survivors' needs; (3) feeling excluded and uncared-for in healthcare settings due to gendered language and lack of supportive services that met their needs; and (4) TGD survivors commonly reported high financial burden, negatively impacting their access to care. Strategies to overcome these challenges were (1) a solid social support network that can be integrated into the care team to meet the unique SRH needs of TGD survivors and (2) gender-affirming healthcare providers and environments to address SRH care needs and concerns. CONCLUSIONS TGD survivors and co-survivors desire improved access to gender-affirming SRH care in cancer survivorship. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Key opportunities to improve gender-affirming SRH care in cancer survivorship include fostering and engaging TGD survivors' support networks and implementing system-level changes in cancer care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Gorman
- Health Promotion and Health Behavior Program, College of Health, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, 160 SW 26thStreet, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
| | - Stephanie L Corey
- Health Promotion and Health Behavior Program, College of Health, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, 160 SW 26thStreet, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Isabelle Ginavan
- Health Promotion and Health Behavior Program, College of Health, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, 160 SW 26thStreet, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Jonathan Garcia
- Health Promotion and Health Behavior Program, College of Health, Oregon State University, 2250 SW Jefferson Way, 160 SW 26thStreet, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
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Marino JL, Peate M, McNeil R, Orme LM, McCarthy MC, Glackin A, Sawyer SM. Experiences of Family and Partner Support in Fertility Decision-Making Among Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: A National Australian Study. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:180-188. [PMID: 37339458 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To understand how adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience family and partner involvement in fertility preservation (FP) decision-making. Methods: As part of a nationally representative Australian cross-sectional study of 15-25-year olds with cancer, 196 participants (mean age 19.9 [standard deviation 3.2] years at diagnosis; 51% male) were surveyed regarding FP decision-making. Results: One hundred sixty-one (83%) participants reported discussion of potential effects of cancer and its treatment on fertility, of whom 57 (35%) did not undertake FP (51% of females; 19% of males). Parental involvement (mothers 62%, fathers 45%) in decision-making was considered helpful, including for 73% of 20-25-year olds with partners. Sisters and brothers were involved less often, yet rated helpful in 48% and 41% of cases, respectively. Older participants were more likely than younger ones to have involved partners (47% vs. 22%, p = 0.001) and less likely to have involved mothers (56% vs. 71%, p = 0.04) or fathers (39% vs. 55%, p = 0.04). Conclusion: This is the first quantitative study to explore family and partner involvement in AYA FP decision-making in both females and males in a nationally representative sample. Parents are important resources who commonly assist AYAs with these complex decisions. Although many AYAs will be the main decision-makers when it comes to FP, particularly as AYAs mature, these data suggest that resources and support should be available for and inclusive of parents, partners, and siblings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Marino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Michelle Peate
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Robyn McNeil
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Lisa M Orme
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- ONTrac at Peter Mac, Victorian Youth Cancer Service, Peter MacCallum Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Maria C McCarthy
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Children's Cancer Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Aoife Glackin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Susan M Sawyer
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Tan CY, Francis-Levin N, Stelmak D, Iannarino NT, Zhang A, Herrel L, Ellman E, Walling E, Moravek MB, Chugh R, Zebrack B. Differentiating gender-based reproductive concerns among adolescent and young adult cancer patients: A mixed methods study. J Psychosoc Oncol 2024; 42:526-542. [PMID: 38164962 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2023.2291798] [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: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few studies have examined the distinct reproductive concerns (RC) of men and women in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patient population. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to explore and differentiate the RC of AYAs. METHODS Participants completed the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer (RCAC) scale and participated in a semistructured interview. Interviews were deductively coded based on an analytic schema derived from the RCAC. RESULTS After identifying participants through the electronic health record, 27 younger AYAs, ages 12-25, enrolled in the study. Four inductive themes emerged and differed by gender. These include differential temporality, acceptance, and openness to alternatives, partner influence, and parental/guardian influence. AYA men reported fewer RC (M = 49.4, SD = 9.6) compared to AYA women (M = 56.8, SD = 8.4). CONCLUSIONS Oncofertility care providers are advised to account for short- and long-ranging concerns based on AYAs' gender. Future evaluations of patient-reported outcome measures specific to AYA RC are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiu Yi Tan
- School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nina Francis-Levin
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daria Stelmak
- School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Nicholas T Iannarino
- Department of Language, Culture, and the Arts, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, USA
| | - Anao Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lindsey Herrel
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erin Ellman
- Rogel Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Walling
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rashmi Chugh
- Rogel Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Brad Zebrack
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Francis-Levin N, Ghazal LV, Francis-Levin J, Zebrack B, Chen M, Zhang A. Exploring the Relationship between Self-Rated Health and Unmet Cancer Needs among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:9291-9303. [PMID: 37887571 PMCID: PMC10605547 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30100671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates the unmet needs of sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors by comparing SGM AYA self-rated health (SRH) scores to their non-SGM (i.e., cisgender/heterosexual) counterparts. The Cancer Needs Questionnaire-Young People (CNQ-YP) and self-rated health measures were used to assess unmet needs in AYAs aged 15-39 who had been diagnosed with cancer in the previous ten years (n = 342). Participants were recruited from a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center registry using the modified Dillman's method. Self-reported sexual orientation and gender identity (SO/GI) data were collected. Independent t-tests were used to test between-group differences in unmet needs and Pearson's chi-square test was used to determine the difference in SRH scores between SGM and non-SGM AYA cancer survivors. SGM AYA cancer survivors reported greater mean needs than their non-SGM counterparts across all six domains and reported significantly greater needs in the domains of Feelings and Relationships, t(314) = -2.111, p = 0.036, Information and Activities, t(314) = -2.594, p = 0.009, and Education, t(207) = -3.289, p < 0.001. SGM versus non-SGM SRH scores were significantly different, indicating that a higher percentage of SGM AYAs reported poor/fair health compared to those who were non-SGM. Unmet life and activities needs were negatively associated with AYA cancer survivors' SRH, whereas unmet work needs were positively associated with AYA cancer survivors' SRH. An AYA's gender identity (SGM versus non-SGM) was not a moderator. SGM AYAs are an understudied group within an already vulnerable patient population. Unmet psychosocial needs related to one's feelings and relationships, and information and activity needs merit further research to develop tailored interventions that reflect the experiences of SGM AYAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Francis-Levin
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Diabetes, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Lauren V. Ghazal
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
| | - Jess Francis-Levin
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA;
| | - Bradley Zebrack
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (B.Z.); (M.C.)
| | - Meiyan Chen
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (B.Z.); (M.C.)
| | - Anao Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (B.Z.); (M.C.)
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Ussher JM, Allison K, Power R, Ryan S, Perz J. Disrupted identities, invisibility and precarious support: a mixed methods study of LGBTQI adolescents and young adults with cancer. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1837. [PMID: 37735365 PMCID: PMC10512535 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16739-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer report higher levels of depression and anxiety and lower health related quality of life than non-LGBTQI AYAs with cancer, and LGBTQI adults with cancer. This mixed methods study examined LGBTQI AYAs' experiences of cancer and cancer care, to understand these health disparities. METHODS Online surveys were completed by 95 LGBTQI AYAs with cancer (age 16-39 years); 19 AYAs took part in a one-to-one semi structured interview. Reflexive thematic analysis of interviews and open-ended survey responses facilitated in-depth examination of subjective experiences; descriptive statistics performed on individual closed-ended survey items identified the percentage of AYAs reporting experiences identified in the qualitative analysis. RESULTS 63% of AYAs reported high or very high distress on the K10. Three themes were identified in the qualitative analysis: 1) "Identities in flux", included subthemes "Cancer disrupts developing identities, and involvement with LGBTQI communities"; "Internalized prejudice impacts identities"; and "Cancer facilitates identities and embodiment". 2) "Invisibility in cancer care", included subthemes "Navigating disclosure amongst cis-heteronormative assumptions", "Discrimination and paternalistic cancer care" and " Cis-heteronormativity within cancer information". 3) "Precarious social support for LGBTQI AYAs with cancer", included subthemes " Social support during cancer is helpful for LGBTQI AYAs", "LGBTQI AYAs navigate limited support", and" Finding cancer peer support networks is difficult for LGBTQI AYAs". CONCLUSIONS LGBTQI AYAs with cancer experience psychosocial vulnerabilities related to identity development, experiences of care, and social support networks. These factors likely contribute to their previously evidenced elevated risk of distress, relative to both non-LGBTQI AYAs and LGBTQI older adults. AYAs affected by cancer may require additional, tailored supportive care, including targeted information resources, LGBTQI AYA specific cancer support groups, or partnerships and referrals to LGBTQI community organisations. Additionally, it is evident that health care professionals and cancer services have much work to do in ensuring LGBTQI AYAs receive affirming and appropriate care across paediatric and adult clinical settings. They must move beyond assuming all patients are cisgender, heterosexual and do not have intersex variations unless otherwise stated; work to signal inclusivity and facilitate disclosure; and be able to respond appropriately with tailored information and care, which is inclusive of LGBTQI partners, chosen family, and support systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane M Ussher
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Kimberley Allison
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rosalie Power
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Samantha Ryan
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Janette Perz
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Cheung CK, Lee H, Levin NJ, Choi E, Ross VA, Geng Y, Thomas BN, Roth ME. Disparities in cancer care among sexual and gender minority adolescent and young adult patients: A scoping review. Cancer Med 2023; 12:14674-14693. [PMID: 37245227 PMCID: PMC10358240 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult cancer patients (AYAs) who are sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are a rapidly increasing population that experiences unmet cancer-related needs. Despite emerging awareness, little is known about cancer care and outcomes for this vulnerable population. The purpose of this scoping review was to explore current knowledge and gaps in the literature on cancer care and outcomes for AYAs who identify as SGM. METHODS We reviewed empirical knowledge on SGM AYAs by identifying, describing, and critically appraising the literature to date. We conducted a comprehensive search on OVID MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL in February 2022. Additionally, we developed and piloted a conceptual framework for appraising SGM AYA research. RESULTS A total of 37 articles were included in the final review. Most studies focused exclusively on SGM-related outcomes as the primary aim of the study (81.1%, n = 30), whereas others included some focus on SGM-related outcomes (18.9%, n = 7). The majority of studies included AYAs as part of a broader age range (86.0%, n = 32), and only a few studies examined exclusively AYA samples (14.0%, n = 5). Gaps in scientific evidence on SGM AYAs were seen across the cancer care continuum. CONCLUSION Numerous gaps in knowledge of cancer care and outcomes exist for SGM AYAs diagnosed with cancer. Future efforts should fill this void with high-quality empirical studies that reveal unknown disparities in care and outcomes and are inclusive of the intersectionality of SGM AYAs with other minoritized experiences, thereby advancing health equity in meaningful ways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haelim Lee
- University of Maryland School of Social WorkBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Nina Jackson Levin
- University of Michigan School of Social Work and Department of AnthropologyMichiganAnn ArborUSA
| | - Eunju Choi
- Department of Nursing and MD Anderson Cancer CenterUniversity of TexasHoustonTexasUSA
| | | | - Yimin Geng
- Research Medical LibraryUniversity of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Bria N. Thomas
- Geisinger Commonwealth School of MedicineScrantonPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Michael E. Roth
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTexasUSA
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