Experiences of Family and Partner Support in Fertility Decision-Making Among Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: A National Australian Study

Marino, JL; Peate, M; McNeil, R; Orme, LM; McCarthy, MC; Glackin, A; Sawyer, SM

Author(s): Marino, JL; Peate, M; McNeil, R; Orme, LM; McCarthy, MC; Glackin, A; Sawyer, SM;
Details: Publication Year 2024-06-20,Volume 13,Issue #1,Page 180-188
Journal Title: Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
Publication Type: Research article
Abstract: Purpose: To understand how adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer experience family and partner involvement in fertility preservation (FP) decision-making. Methods: As part of a nationally representative Australian cross-sectional study of 15-25-year olds with cancer, 196 participants (mean age 19.9 [standard deviation 3.2] years at diagnosis; 51% male) were surveyed regarding FP decision-making. Results: One hundred sixty-one (83%) participants reported discussion of potential effects of cancer and its treatment on fertility, of whom 57 (35%) did not undertake FP (51% of females; 19% of males). Parental involvement (mothers 62%, fathers 45%) in decision-making was considered helpful, including for 73% of 20-25-year olds with partners. Sisters and brothers were involved less often, yet rated helpful in 48% and 41% of cases, respectively. Older participants were more likely than younger ones to have involved partners (47% vs. 22%, p = 0.001) and less likely to have involved mothers (56% vs. 71%, p = 0.04) or fathers (39% vs. 55%, p = 0.04). Conclusion: This is the first quantitative study to explore family and partner involvement in AYA FP decision-making in both females and males in a nationally representative sample. Parents are important resources who commonly assist AYAs with these complex decisions. Although many AYAs will be the main decision-makers when it comes to FP, particularly as AYAs mature, these data suggest that resources and support should be available for and inclusive of parents, partners, and siblings.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert
Keywords: decision barrier; decision support; oncofertility; parents; partners; siblings
Department(s): AYA Cancer Service
PubMed ID: 37339458
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2023.0037
Terms of Use/Rights Notice: Refer to copyright notice on published article.

Creation Date: 2023-10-17 03:11:24

Last Modified: 2024-09-05 06:55:56