Youth Cancer Services Reach More than Half of Newly Diagnosed Patients

Young adult cancer specialists have banded together to highlight to GPs the growing network of age-specific dedicated cancer services for 15 - 25 year olds in Australia.
Data reveals Youth Cancer Services has reached a landmark 55 per cent of newly diagnosed patients, however nearly half of young Australians with cancer are missing out on specialised treatment and support services staffed by multi-disciplinary teams (including doctors, nurses, care navigators, social workers, psychologists and other allied health staff) who have experience in working with AYAs.
There are five Youth Cancer Services across Australia, with 19 hospitals currently participating.
Lead clinician of the NSW/ACT Youth Cancer Service Dr Antoinette Anazodo said an  average Australian GP may only diagnose one or two young cancer patients in their career.
"But," she says "when they do come into contact with suspected cancer, we want GPs to know there is a dedicated service offering specialist treatment and support for this age group.
“It’s great to see 55% of 15-25 year olds treated or supported through Youth Cancer Services, but this means nearly half of young Australians with cancer are missing out on high quality multidisciplinary treatment and tailored care, designed for their age group.” she added.
Each day in Australia, around three young people aged 15-25 are diagnosed with cancer, with approximately 75% requiring hospital treatment.
“Young people are more likely to experience delayed diagnosis due to the relative rarity of cancer in young people and the complexity of their symptoms,” said Dr Michael Osborn, lead clinician of SA/NT Youth Cancer Services. “Increased vigilance with regard to spotting the early warning signs of cancer is the first step towards timely treatment and achieving the best outcome for these young patients.”
The most common signs of cancer in young people aged 15-25 include unexplained and persistent pain, lumps, bumps or swellings, significant weight loss, fatigue and / or fever and changes in a mole.
Youth Cancer Services provide a vital service across Australia for accessing a full range of cancer care designed specifically for young people, from medical treatment to counselling, information on fertility preservation, access to clinical trials, recreation and financial services.
“Young people with cancer have unique needs: physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, said Peter Orchard, CEO of CanTeen. “Youth Cancer Services offer gold standard care incorporating a multidisciplinary approach, psychosocial support and other areas which meet the unique needs of young people.”
Latest data reveal that 88 per cent of all newly referred YCS patients had their medical or surgical treatment discussed at a medical multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meeting during 2013-14, whilst 77 per cent of new patients were provided with fertility preservation information.
PATIENT STORY
For Heather, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in February 2013 and underwent 4 cycles of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Youth Cancer Services were a wonderful support.
"I was very blessed to receive the support of a specialist clinician team through the Youth Cancer Services made up of 2 amazing members of staff; an oncology clinical nurse consultant and radiation oncologist. I met the team at my first appointment with my haematologist  and was immediately given a wealth of information including specific young adult support services, fertility programs and financial aid services.