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Journal of Cancer Survivorship
Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship 5/2016

01-10-2016 | Review

Psychosocial outcomes and interventions among cancer survivors diagnosed during adolescence and young adulthood (AYA): a systematic review

Authors: Marie Barnett, Glynnis McDonnell, Antonio DeRosa, Tammy Schuler, Errol Philip, Lisa Peterson, Kaitlin Touza, Sabrina Jhanwar, Thomas M. Atkinson, Jennifer S. Ford

Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship | Issue 5/2016

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Abstract

Purpose

A cancer diagnosis during adolescence or young adulthood (AYA; defined as ages 15–39) generates unique medical and psychosocial needs as developmental milestones are simultaneously impacted. Past research highlights that AYAs’ experiences and psychosocial outcomes are different, and more research and attention is needed. We aimed to identify and synthesize literature regarding psychosocial outcomes, unique needs, and existing psychosocial interventions pertaining to individuals diagnosed with cancer exclusively during AYA, and to highlight areas for future research.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane, Web of Science, and PsycINFO (via OVID). Grey literature was searched using key term variations and combinations. Overall, 15,301 records were assessed by two independent reviewers, with 38 studies meeting inclusion criteria.

Results

Data synthesis of the 38 articles was organized by four main themes based on quality of life and survivorship: physical well-being (7 studies), psychological well-being (8 studies), social well-being (9 studies), and survivorship care (14 studies). The paucity of studies for such broad inclusion criteria highlights that this population is often combined or subsumed under other age groups, missing needs unique to these AYAs.

Conclusions

AYA cancer survivors’ experiences are nuanced, with interacting variables contributing to post-treatment outcomes. AYAs require age-appropriate and flexible care, informational needs and treatment-related education that foster autonomy for long-term survivorship, as well as improved follow-up care and psychological outcomes.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

By incorporating these findings into practice, the informational and unmet needs of AYAs can be addressed effectively. Education and programming is lacking specific and general subject matter specific to AYAs, incorporating ranging needs at different treatment stages.
Appendix
Available only for authorised users
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Metadata
Title
Psychosocial outcomes and interventions among cancer survivors diagnosed during adolescence and young adulthood (AYA): a systematic review
Authors
Marie Barnett
Glynnis McDonnell
Antonio DeRosa
Tammy Schuler
Errol Philip
Lisa Peterson
Kaitlin Touza
Sabrina Jhanwar
Thomas M. Atkinson
Jennifer S. Ford
Publication date
01-10-2016
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Cancer Survivorship / Issue 5/2016
Print ISSN: 1932-2259
Electronic ISSN: 1932-2267
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-016-0527-6

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