Jasmin Hundal, Chair of Hematology-Oncology Research Fellowship Working Group at Cleveland Clinic, shared a post on LinkedIn about a recent article by Ben Abid Fatma et al, adding:
“Addressing the AYA Cancer Survivorship Equity Crisis
Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer patients (ages 15–39) represent a uniquely vulnerable group who are facing delays in diagnosis, fragmented care, and distinct psychosocial challenges.
A new expert review by The Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Disparities Committee reveals an urgent global equity crisis: profound disparities in supportive and survivorship care that can negatively impact the long-term health of AYAs worldwide.
These inequities are most severe in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) , BUT persist among underserved populations even in high-income settings. Supportive care is not optional and it is essential to reducing morbidity and mortality.
Key Gaps Undermining AYA Survivorship:
- Fertility Preservation: Access remains highly unequal, limited by cost, geography, and lack of provider training, especially in LMICs.
- Psychosocial Health: Emotional distress affects up to 70% of AYA patients in LMICs, yet mental health support is rarely integrated into cancer care. Depression itself increases cancer-related mortality risk.
- Nutritional Care: Up to 70% of patients in LMICs face malnutrition. Even in high income countries, food insecurity impairs recovery for underserved groups.
- Cardiovascular and Physical Health: Exercise improves survival and quality of life, but participation is restricted by limited access to structured programs. Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in survivors.
- Secondary Malignancies: AYAs have a higher risk of second cancers and related deaths. Standardized screening and equitable access to advanced modalities are needed.
The Path Forward Systemic reform is critical. Global organizations should lead the integration of resource-adapted, patient-centered supportive care across all health systems.
Every AYA cancer survivor, regardless of geography or income, deserves access to comprehensive supportive care that enables them not only to survive, but to thrive.”
Title: Global disparities in supportive and survivorship care among adolescent and young adult cancer patients
Authors: Ben Abid Fatma, Cardeña-Gutiérrez Ana, Sathyanarayanan Vishwanath, K. Muthulingeshkumar, Lustberg Maryam, Soto-Perez-de-Celis Enrique, Chan Alexandre
Read the Full Article on Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care
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