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Cancer care for adolescents and young adults in Jordan.

Background
Adolescents and young adults with cancer have special characteristics and needs.


Aims
This study highlighted psychosocial challenges, fertility issues and secondary diseases encountered in adolescents and young adults with cancer. This work is meant to be a platform for future interventions for cancer in this demographic.


Methods
We investigated the latest edition of the Jordan Cancer Registry (JCR) and our more comprehensive institutional database during 2000-2012. Smoking, obesity and fertility preservation were addressed briefly as important issues among AYA patients.


Results
Cancer among adolescents and young adults represents 16.3% of all new cancer cases and has increased by 25% over the past 12 years. Women are more likely to be involved (female: male ratio of 1.44: 1) because of thyroid and breast cancers. Five-year survival rate for the AYA group was 72.4%, which was significantly better than for adults aged ≥ 40 years (59.8%) but worse than for paediatric patients aged < 15 years (79.2%) (P < 0.0001).


Conclusions
Cancer in adolescents and young adults represents a substantial and growing proportion of oncological diagnoses. Due to their special needs and treatment complications, a dedicated service is urgently needed.