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Tholeti P, Uppangala S, Jayaram RK, Udupa KS, Kalthur G, Spears N, Woodruff T, Adiga SK. Oncofertility awareness among primary care physicians in India. F1000Res 2023; 12:153. [PMID: 37767024 PMCID: PMC10521121 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.126232.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary care physicians not only coordinate referrals to oncology services but can play a crucial role in successful fertility preservation referrals in cancer-diagnosed patients. Hence, it is important to assess their knowledge and attitudes towards fertility preservation. METHODS An eighteen-item oncofertility survey was administered to primary care physicians between May 2019 to September 2020. Results: A total of forty-six responses were received and analysed. About 60% of primary care physicians did not have adequate knowledge about available fertility preservation options and only 26-32% were aware of international guidelines recommending fertility preservation in cancer patients. Conclusions: Imparting awareness and knowledge of fertility preservation and its options to primary care physicians could enable an integrated cancer care model while also facilitating successful oncofertility referrals in countries like India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathima Tholeti
- Centre for Fertility Preservation, Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | | | - Karthik S Udupa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Norah Spears
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Teresa Woodruff
- Oncofertility Consortium, Room A626B, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, 48824-1316, USA
| | - Satish K Adiga
- Centre for Fertility Preservation, Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
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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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Kim JH, Alzahrani HS, Lee SR, Kim SH, Chae HD. Outcomes of Fertility Preservation for Female Cancer Patients in a Single Tertiary Center. Yonsei Med J 2023; 64:497-504. [PMID: 37488701 PMCID: PMC10375243 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2023.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report our experience of fertility preservation (FP) in female cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of female who underwent elective oocyte or embryo cryopreservation before cancer treatment between January 2015 and December 2020 at Asan Medical Center. We analyzed the type of cancer, the rate of reuse of cryopreserved oocytes or embryos, and fertility outcomes such as the resumption of menstruation or pregnancy. RESULTS A total of 174 patients underwent 182 oocyte retrieval cycles after controlled ovarian stimulation for oocyte or embryo cryopreservation. The median age of patients was 33.0 (range 19-46) years, and the patients were most unmarried female (65.52%). The majority of patients were diagnosed with breast cancer (78.16%), and the remaining were diagnosed with gastrointestinal (6.33%) and hematologic malignancies (5.75%). The maturation rate of oocyte cryopreservation was 83.33%, and the fertilization rate of embryo cryopreservation was 72.07%. Of the 57 patients currently not undergoing cancer treatment, 34 resumed menstruating and 19 (33.33%, 19/57) returned to attempt a pregnancy. Among them, five patients succeeded in natural pregnancy. Eleven patients received frozen-thawed embryo transfer, and four patients succeeded in becoming pregnant (36.36%, 4/11). Only 6.3% of patients returned to use their gametes, and 93.7% of gametes are still in storage. CONCLUSION FP in cancer patients should be considered before cancer treatment. Through continuous research on oncofertility, it is necessary to consider how to increase the return rate and provide appropriate information to cancer patients of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hee Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hana Saeed Alzahrani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sa Ra Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Dong Chae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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4
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Hu L, Xu B, Chau PH, Choi EPH. Reproductive concerns among young adult women with breast cancer: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071160. [PMID: 37451712 PMCID: PMC10351261 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Reproductive concerns refer to worries about impaired or lost reproductive ability due to disease or/and treatment. Many young female patients with breast cancer experience reproductive concerns because they still desire to have children at the time of diagnosis. Reproductive concerns can impact patients' treatment decision-making as well as their psychological health and quality of life. Understanding the situation, contributing factors and health-related consequences of reproductive concerns among patients with breast cancer is essential to minimise their impacts. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A systematic review will be conducted. We will search five English databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science and APA PsycInfo) and four Chinese databases (Wang Fang database, VIP, CBM and CNKI) for pertinent studies. Other relevant studies will be identified from the reference lists of included studies. Two reviewers will independently perform study selection, data extraction and quality appraisal. Any discrepancies between the two reviewers will be resolved through consultation and discussion with the senior reviewer. A formal narrative synthesis will be performed to summarise the findings of individual studies. This review aims to improve understanding of the level of reproductive concerns, factors associated with reproductive concerns and health-related consequences of reproductive concerns among patients with breast cancer. The findings can contribute to the development of tailored interventions to alleviate reproductive concerns of patients with breast cancer, enhancing their psychological health and quality of life. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval is not required for this review, as it will be based on published studies. The findings will be disseminated by publishing in a journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022375247.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hu
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Breast Surgical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Binbin Xu
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pui Hing Chau
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Hanna MT, Handa N, Laronda MM, Rowell EE. Efficacy of Video-based Education in Improving Understanding of Pediatric Fertility Preservation. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2023; 45:e487-e495. [PMID: 36716087 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000002611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Eighty percent of children diagnosed with cancer in childhood survive into adulthood. Fertility preservation (FP) is an important consideration, and procedures are available to reduce the risk of infertility following gonadotoxic therapies. Discussing FP options eases decision-making and minimizes regret; however, poor comprehension of these topics remains a challenge. This study evaluates if video-based educational tools increase understanding of FP options among pediatric patients and families. Videos were first tested among participants not at risk of infertility to ensure objective utility and optimize quality. In part 1, parents of pediatric surgical patients were randomized to view 2 publicly available educational videos on FP in differing orders. Each group completed pre-surveys and post-surveys assessing the comprehension and perception of video quality. In part 2, the parent and patient participants completed a comprehension assessment before and after viewing our institution-specific educational video, designed based on participant feedback from part 1. Part 1 results demonstrated a significant increase in participant knowledge and perceived understanding after viewing the videos ( P <0.001), regardless of order. In part 2, the post-test comprehension scores were significantly improved for all participants and all subgroups, P <0.01. Results suggest that video-based educational tools may help to reduce barriers to FP in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria T Hanna
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
| | - Nicole Handa
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
| | - Monica M Laronda
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Chicago, IL
| | - Erin E Rowell
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Department of Surgery
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Qin N, Wan Z, Kang Y, Luo Y, Duan Y, Xie J, Cheng AS. Effectiveness and feasibility of online fertility preservation decision aids for young female patients with cancer: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070294. [PMID: 36940948 PMCID: PMC10030757 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer diagnosis and treatment can impair fertility, and younger female patients with cancer have a particularly strong need for fertility preservation. Fertility preservation decision aids are thought to help patients make proactive and informed treatment decisions. This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of online fertility preservation decision aids for young female patients with cancer. METHODS AND ANALYSIS PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO and CHINAL, along with three grey literature sources (Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform), will be searched from each database's establishment to 30 November 2022. Two trained reviewers will independently screen the articles, and the data extraction and methodological quality of eligible randomised controlled trials and quasiexperimental studies will be assessed. A meta-analysis will be performed using Review Manager V.5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration) software, and heterogeneity will be assessed using I² statistics. If a meta-analysis is not possible, a narrative synthesis will be done. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Since this systematic review is based on published data, no ethical approval is required. The study's findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022363287.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qin
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyu Wan
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yue Kang
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yating Luo
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yinglong Duan
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianfei Xie
- Nursing Department, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Andy Sk Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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Access to information and oncofertility consultation for young women with breast cancer: a population-based study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3313. [PMID: 36849808 PMCID: PMC9970981 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30423-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-menopausal women with breast cancer treated with chemotherapy are at intermediate risk of post-treatment amenorrhea and decreased fertility. Although they should receive appropriate information, studies until now show that this is inadequate. We investigated the proportion of women who received information about this risk during the pre-treatment consultation, and those who received an oncofertility consultation to preserve their gametes. We also analysed the medical and non-medical factors influencing the transmission of information to patients and their uptake of oncofertility consultations. We included women aged 18-40 years treated with chemotherapy for breast cancer between 2012 and 2017 in the Midi-Pyrénées region (ca. 3 million inhabitants), France. Studied variables were included in a multilevel model. Among the 575 women, 41% of the women received information and 28% received an oncofertility consultation. These two steps on the care pathway were significantly influenced by the type of care structure, the woman's age, her parity at the time of diagnosis, and the metastatic status of the cancer. Female oncologist gender was significantly associated with higher transmission rate. We found no association between neoadjuvant chemotherapy status, level of deprivation (EDI), triple-negative status, marital status, and first-degree family history of cancer and information transmission or uptake of oncofertility consultation. Our study shows that not enough women are informed and have recourse to an oncofertility consultation. Despite a legal obligation, the health care system does not offer the necessary conditions for access to oncofertility care.
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Ahmed Y, Khan AMH, Rao UJ, Shaukat F, Jamil A, Hasan SM, Abrar S, Qureshi BM, Abbasi AN. Fertility preservation is an imperative goal in the clinical practice of radiation oncology: a narrative review. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 16:1461. [PMID: 36819826 PMCID: PMC9934885 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2022.1461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With reduced cancer mortality in recent years, increased efforts must be put into safeguarding cancer survivors' long-term quality of life (QOL). Fertility preservation is recognised as a key component of QOL in survivorship. Concerns about fertility have been seen to significantly impact cancer patients' emotional and mental health as, generally, both malignancy and its treatment may cause a temporary or permanent reduction in infertility. This article reviews the primary effects of radiation therapy on male and female gonads and has further highlighted procedures through which the functioning of these organs can be protected before or during radiation treatment. We have also emphasised the importance of the establishment of multidisciplinary tumour boards and patient education regarding future reproductive function which is an important component of the care of individuals with cancer. This article highlights that infertility is a persistent and major concern that can add to long-term stress in cancer survivors, and education about fertility preservation before the initiation of any treatment is especially important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumna Ahmed
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, P. O. Box 3500, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Fatima Shaukat
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cyberknife and Tomotherapy Centre, JPMC, Karachi 75510, Pakistan
| | - Arhum Jamil
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi 75510, Pakistan
| | | | - Sehrish Abrar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, P. O. Box 3500, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | - Bilal Mazhar Qureshi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, P. O. Box 3500, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Nadeem Abbasi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Stadium Road, P. O. Box 3500, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
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Hong YH, Lee JR. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation for fertility preservation. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.6.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: As the number of cancer survivors has increased with advancements in cancer treatment, fertility preservation has become a treatment goal. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and transplantation (OTT) has made great progress over the past few decades. It has become the treatment of choice for fertility preservation in adolescents or patients in urgent need of chemotherapy. However, it is considered to be experimental compared with oocyte or embryo cryopreservation in some countries. Nevertheless, OTC and OTT is regarded as the more ideal method for fertility preservation in that it can also restore hormonal functions.Current Concepts: Currently, over 200 live births have been reported worldwide after OTC and OTT, proving the excellence of the technology. However, before its application in clinical settings, some challenges, including cryoinjury, ischemic injury, and cancer cell reimplantation, should be overcome. For cryoinjury, studies are underway on protocol improvement with the addition of agents such as antifreeze protein during cryopreservation. For ischemic injury, various agents have been studied to promote angiogenesis or revascularization. Furthermore, studies are underway on artificial ovary or xenotransplantation for fertility preservation in an effort to avoid cancer cell metastasis.Discussion and Conclusion: OTC and OTT is a clinically applicable option for fertility preservation. To set OTC and OTT as an established method for fertility preservation, further research is necessary to overcome the current challenges.
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Lee D, Kim YJ. Planned oocyte cryopreservation for fertility preservation. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.6.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Oocyte cryopreservation opens up opportunities for women to preserve fertility when it is necessary to postpone pregnancy. After the advent of vitrification, the results of oocyte cryopreservation were significantly improved compared to conventional slow-freezing. Through these improvements, oocyte cryopreservation was introduced to overcome a decline in fecundity due to an increase in age, and this modality is defined as planned oocyte cryopreservation.Current Concepts: Oocytes cryopreserved through vitrification appear to result in similar clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates compared to fresh oocytes, though the evidence is still limited. It has been reported that the live birth rate increases when the planned oocyte cryopreservation is performed at a younger age. Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes appear similar between vitrified and fresh oocytes.Discussion and Conclusion: Preliminary data supports planned oocyte cryopreservation as a feasible modality resulting in fertility preservation and subsequent live births. The fact that performing the procedure at a younger age can increase the oocyte yield, oocyte efficacy, and live birth rate can be discussed along with patient consultation. However, as there is still a lack of data on the standardized live birth rate, the number of oocytes to be collected, and the long-term effect on the children; more well-designed studies are needed to improve counseling and decision-making in patients seeking this treatment.
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Lee JH, Choi YS. Cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos for fertility preservation. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.6.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the demand for fertility preservation for both oncologic and nononcologic reasons, as well as for personal reasons, has increased dramatically.Current Concepts: Currently, embryo and oocyte cryopreservation after ovarian stimulation are the mainstays of fertility preservation treatment in women. Embryo cryopreservation is an established and the most successful method of fertility preservation when sufficient time (approximately 2 weeks) is available to perform ovarian stimulation. Recent advances in freezing techniques (vitrification) have significantly improved the outcomes from oocyte cryopreservation that are comparable with those from embryo cryopreservation.Discussion and Conclusion: This review focuses on the indications for the two techniques of fertility preservation and their results. For women to receive timely opportunities to preserve fertility, it is necessary to raise awareness among all medical departments and the public.
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Kim HY, Kim SW. History of fertility preservation. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.6.322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fertility preservation refers to a procedure performed to maintain the ability to become pregnant before receiving treatment with a risk of fertility loss, such as chemo- or radiation therapy. Examples of fertility-preserving procedures include freezing, sperm freezing, embryo freezing through in vitro fertilization, and ovarian tissue freezing.Current Concepts: Until the late 1990s, awareness of fertility preservation among clinicians and patients was relatively low, and the only way to preserve and restore fertility in women with cancer was the cryopreservation of embryos. However, as the survival rate of cancer patients increased and the treatment results of various diseases improved, interest in quality of life such as pregnancy and childbirth after treatment gradually increased, and became a driving force for the development of fertility preservation. In the 2000s, several centers began cryopreserving ovarian tissue, including primordial follicles from young patients before chemotherapy. Currently, ovarian tissue cryopreservation can be used in combination with in vitro maturation and egg vitrification techniques. Novel methods to improve follicle survival after transplantation are currently being investigated. Methods to improve follicle survival after transplantation and new ovarian protective agents to protect the ovaries from cytotoxic agents are currently being studied.Discussion and Conclusion: Advances in fertility-preserving technologies in the future will contribute to the delivery of healthy children by providing tailored treatments and more individualized fertility-preserving strategies to patients whose fertility is at risk.
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Biondi A, Conter V, Chandy M, Ewald P, Lucia de Martino Lee M, Radhakrishnan VS, Rotchanapanya W, Scanlan P, Patrick Smith O, Togo B, Hokland P. Precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia-a global view. Br J Haematol 2021; 196:530-547. [PMID: 34931311 PMCID: PMC9300129 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
As haematologists, we always seek to follow standardised guidelines for practice and apply the best treatment within our means for our patients with blood diseases. However, treatment can never follow an exact recipe. Opinions differ as to the best approach; sometimes more than one treatment approach results in identical outcomes, or treatments differ only by the manner in which they fail. Furthermore, the haematologist is faced with constraints relating to the local economic environment. Patients too are not the same the world over. Early presentation is commoner in the developed world, as is the patient’s understanding of the disease process. This in turn has an impact on the way patients are managed, the rigorousness of patient adhesion to the treatment schedule and the outcome. Here we take a look at the precursor B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in an adolescent in a range of different settings from low‐ to high income countries with widely differing challenges for diagnosis, therpy and follow‐up. For these reasons, given the same starting conditions, patients will be treated differently according to the institute and the country they are in. Experts from around the world have been tasked to describe their management plan and rationale for a specific disease presentation. Here they explore the management of precursor B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (pre‐B ALL) in five different institutions worldwide with a focus on those with more or less strained economies. We end with a conclusion from an expert in the field comparing and contrasting these different management styles and considering their merits and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Biondi
- Clinica Pediatrica, Fondazione MBBM, Università Milano Bicocca, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Valentino Conter
- Clinica Pediatrica, Fondazione MBBM, Università Milano Bicocca, Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Mammen Chandy
- Department of Clinical Haematology Oncology and HCT, Tata Medical Center, Kolkata, India
| | - Primus Ewald
- Muhimbili National Hospital and Tumaini la Maisha Children's Cancer Charity, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Vivek S Radhakrishnan
- Department of Clinical Haematology Oncology and HCT, Tata Medical Center, Kolkata, India
| | - Wannaphorn Rotchanapanya
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Chiangrai Prachanukroh Hospital, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Patricia Scanlan
- Muhimbili National Hospital and Tumaini la Maisha Children's Cancer Charity, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Owen Patrick Smith
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Boubacar Togo
- Department of Pediatrics, CHU Gabriel Touré, Bamako, Mali
| | - Peter Hokland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Dorfman CS, Stalls JM, Mills C, Voelkel S, Thompson M, Acharya KS, Baker KC, Wagner LM, Miller N, Boswell A, Corbett C. Addressing Barriers to Fertility Preservation for Cancer Patients: The Role of Oncofertility Patient Navigation. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY NAVIGATION & SURVIVORSHIP 2021; 12:332-348. [PMID: 34804640 PMCID: PMC8601663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a common late effect for cancer survivors. Whereas assisted reproductive technology has made it possible for survivors to take steps to preserve fertility before starting treatment, only a minority of patients proceed with preservation. Patient-, provider-, health system-, and societal-level barriers to fertility preservation (FP) exist. Oncofertility patient navigation is a valuable resource for addressing FP barriers. OBJECTIVES To highlight the critical role of oncofertility patient navigation in addressing barriers to FP within an academic oncofertility program. METHODS The role of the oncofertility patient navigator in reducing FP barriers, promoting informed decision-making, and ensuring program sustainability is described. Program metrics illustrating the impact of oncofertility patient navigation on referrals for FP counseling and access to FP in the last year also are provided. DISCUSSION The oncofertility program at our academic adult and pediatric medical centers aims to facilitate rapid referral to fertility counseling and preservation services for postpubertal cancer patients. The patient navigator is integral to the success of the program. The navigator ensures that patients are: (1) well-informed about the potential impact of cancer on fertility and FP options, (2) aware of available resources (eg, financial) for pursuing FP, (3) able to access FP services if desired, and (4) well supported in making an informed FP decision. The inclusion of the patient navigator has led to an almost 2-fold increase in referrals for FP counseling in the past year over the historic annual average. CONCLUSIONS Our institution's oncofertility program, with patient navigation at the core, provides a potential model for increasing patient access to oncofertility care and promoting program sustainability. Oncofertility patient navigation is a valuable resource for providing patients and families with education and support regarding FP decision-making, as well as addressing the multilevel barriers to FP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Dorfman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Juliann M Stalls
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Coleman Mills
- Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Shannon Voelkel
- Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Mallori Thompson
- Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Kelly S Acharya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Karen C Baker
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Lars M Wagner
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Nolan Miller
- Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | | | - Cheyenne Corbett
- Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
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How Do Young Women with Cancer Experience Oncofertility Counselling during Cancer Treatment? A Qualitative, Single Centre Study at a Danish Tertiary Hospital. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061355. [PMID: 33802795 PMCID: PMC8002475 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer are at risk of therapy-induced infertility. The importance of initial and specialized fertility counselling to this patient group is undisputed. Despite international guidelines, oncofertility counselling is still inadequate. The purpose of this study was to examine how female AYA cancer patients and survivors experienced initial and specialized oncofertility counselling, and to present their specific suggestions on how to improve the oncofertility counselling. METHODS Twelve individual semi-structured interviews were performed with AYAs aged 20-35 with cancer or who were survivors. Participants were recruited via a youth support centre and social organization for AYAs with cancer. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Three main themes were found: Support is needed for navigating the fertility information jungle; The doctor's approach determines the content of the patient consultation; Inadequate and worrying information causes mistrust and frustration. CONCLUSION Results indicate a continuing problem regarding insufficient oncofertility counselling to AYAs with cancer. To ensure adequate and uniform information, especially in the initial oncofertility counselling, national guidelines for oncology specialists are suggested including multidisciplinary effort and collaboration between oncology and fertility specialists in mind. In addition, participants suggest focus on communication skills.
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