Prospective SAJAC Study of Rehabilitation for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer in a Comprehensive Cancer Center

Abstract

Background:

Youth patient organizations have taken action to address the specific needs of adolescents and young adults (AYAs), and the third National Cancer Control Plan has made this a requirement. This study presents the center’s rehabilitation program.

Patients and Methods:

Following initial treatment, patients aged 18–25 were seen annually for 5 years by a multidisciplinary team. Quality of life using the World health organization quality of life (WHOQOL)-BREF and anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were assessed. The sexologist developed his own scale. The Patients’ Global Impression of Change scale (P-GIC) was used to evaluate patients’ feedback about the program.

Results:

Forty-five patients were included. The main reason for being unable to work effectively was cancer and/or its treatment for 20 patients out of 23 in activity (87%). Ten patients (22.2%) reported financial difficulties, and 14 patients (31.1%) received support from a social worker. Regarding sexological accompaniment, only 17 patients could be evaluated; most of these patients (N = 11, 65%) required a sexologist appointment more than a year after the end of their treatment. Regarding psychological support, 44 patients completed the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. No particular trend was observed over time. A total of 45 patients completed the HADS. Symptoms of depression may decrease over time, from the end of the treatment to up to 5 years later, whereas anxiety symptoms may not. Of the 48 responses received for the P-GIC satisfaction survey, 43 (89%) indicated satisfaction.

Conclusion:

The AYA team conducts systematic needs assessment and works to address these needs.