Experiences of Oncofertility Decision-Making and Care in a National Sample of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients and Parents

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

Author(s): Glackin, A; Marino, JL; Peate, M; McNeil, R; Orme, LM; McCarthy, MC; Sawyer, SM;
Details: Publication Year 2024-08-03,Volume 13,Issue #1,Page 170-179
Journal Title: Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
Publication Type: Research article
Abstract: Purpose: Cancer and its treatments are known to compromise fertility in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). The emotional burden of possible infertility is reduced in those who receive supportive oncofertility care. In legal minors, provision of health care must consider the legal context and desire that AYAs have for autonomous decision-making, together with their competence to make health decisions. This has important implications for how oncofertility discussions may, or may not, involve parents. The aim of this study was to explore oncofertility decision-making and care experiences in a national Australian sample of AYA cancer patients and their parents. Methods: AYAs aged 15-25 years and parents were recruited from 17 cancer care sites and CanTeen Australia as part of a national AYA cancer care study. The cross-sectional survey included open-ended questions regarding oncofertility care experiences. We used reflexive thematic analysis to identify themes. Results: Data were available for 99 AYAs and 111 parents. Four themes were identified: emotional care needs; parent-AYA dynamics including AYA autonomy and agency; decision-making considerations including values and practicalities; and reflections on oncofertility care and follow-up. Both AYAs and parents placed importance on AYA autonomy in fertility decision-making, but many AYAs appreciated the role of parents in providing support and guidance throughout the process. Conclusion: Health care professionals are encouraged to autonomously engage AYAs around fertility decision-making, while concurrently offering opportunities that promote parental support. Better psychological support and follow-up oncofertility care are also needed.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert
Keywords: decision support; decision-making; fertility; infertility; qualitative analysis
Department(s): AYA Cancer Service
PubMed ID: 37535814
Publisher's Version: https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2023.0036
Terms of Use/Rights Notice: Refer to copyright notice on published article.

Creation Date: 2023-10-19 04:37:32

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