Secondary cancer prevention among the youth: research status and policy recommendations for the EU

Background

In early 2021, Europe's Beating Cancer Plan was announced on World Cancer Day. While the European Commission's plan does not include a focus on secondary cancers prevention, the secondary cancers are the sixth most common group of malignanciesThe review aims to 1) synthesize the existing approaches and interventions for cancer prevention in young cancer patients and survivors, 2) deliver evidence-based recommendations for how to best adapt the existing cancer prevention guidelines for young cancer survivors including children, adolescents or young adults (AYA).

Methods

Four major databases (PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO, PsycNET) were screened for relevant literature on cancer prevention in childhood and AYA cancer patients and survivors using a combination of terms.

Results

The search yielded 2,712 unique articles from which 32 met the inclusion criteria. Few existing studies focus on AYA or directly address cancer prevention in young survivors. More emphasis is needed on other preventative measures beyond healthy diet and physical exercise.

Conclusions

This review revealed a gap in the translational research in cancer prevention for young people with cancer. The findings emphasize that childhood and AYA cancer patients and survivors need not be overlooked. A pan-European research framework for prevention of second primary cancer among young people is recommended to gain knowledge on how to best adapt the measures against second primary cancers in youth.

Key messages

Developing targeted cancer prevention measures in young cancer survivors may lower the burden of second primary cancers as well as attenuate the fear of recurrence, one of the most prevalent worries. A pan-European research framework for prevention of second primary cancer among young people is recommended to gain knowledge on how to best adapt the measures against second primary cancers in youth.