New study points to unique cancer issues among adolescents and young adults

As with cancer patients of any age, young adults can see significant changes in their life after a cancer diagnosis, including disruption of school and career.

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) who are diagnosed with cancer in the US face significant and unique health issues, including disparities in care, which could affect their survival rate. A new study looking at cancer patients aged 15-39 explores these issues and possible ways to improve treatment.

According to the study from the American Cancer Society, cancer research for AYAs can be problematic because types of cancer diagnoses and incidence of cancer show variation as adolescents become adults. And this age group has been somewhat overlooked, the study said, partly because it falls between well-defined groups—pediatric cancer patients and adult cancer patients. At the time of diagnosis, many of these patients are transitioning between getting care from providers of pediatric care and providers of adult care. In addition, since younger adults are more likely to uninsured than any other age group, lack of insurance coverage is also an important factor in access to care.