Exploring sexual and reproductive health among adolescent and young adult patients with cancer: A patient-oriented qualitative study using novel, serial focus groups.

• DOI: 10.1200/jco.2024.42.16_suppl.e23080
• Publication Date: 2024-06-03T20:55:50Z
• Authors: Niki Oveisi; Vicki Cheng; Dani Taylor; Haydn Bechthold; Mikaela Barnes; Norman Jansen; Helen McTaggart-C...; Lori A. Brotto; Stuart Peacock; Gillian E. Hanley; Sharlene Gill; Meera Rayar; Amirrtha Srikanthan; Mary De Vera
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine

e23080 Background: While treatment advances for adolescent and young adult (AYA, ages 15 - 39) cancers are improving survival, there is a lack of information support regarding impacts AYA cancer on sexual reproductive health (SRH) during after treatment. Our study explored SRH experiences patients using novel, serial focus groups. Methods: With online in-person approaches, we recruited folks who: 1) Were diagnosed with at age – 39; 2) Reside in Canada; 3) Are over 18. Participants were grouped into cohorts based akin characteristics (e.g., sex, stage). Each cohort engaged three groups, mimicking to foster community trust. An interview guide was iteratively developed patient research partners. We used framework analysis identify recurring themes patterns, offering full insight participants’ perspectives from deductive inductive views. Results: 4 group cohorts, 6–10 participants each (N = 24 females, 6 males), representing various types pelvic, hematologic) stages (1–4). Cohorts had representation transgender (n gender diverse 3), non-heterosexual orientation 11), racial diversity 9). identified describing experiences: internally (“looking inwards”) impact SRH; externally outwards”) interpersonal relationships; role the healthcare system. Internally, described complex themselves, revealing shifting definitions, perspectives, expectations, goals time. Dynamic interplays also surfaced, unveiling mental, physical, financial changes that positively or negatively impacted influenced short long-term well-being. Externally, romantic relationships family planning underscored interplay societal pressures choices. Regarding system, findings highlight facilitators (i.e., self-advocacy, nurses, recent pregnancy, provider similar identity, etc.) barriers gender, stigma, age, fertility costs, heteronormativity, deprioritization, influence access appropriate available resources support. Conclusions: challenges have significant internal external among their By understanding throughout care, providers system can opportunities implement care more effectively continuum, significantly outcomes patients.