Exploring Cancer Worry in Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancers

摘要

Purpose: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of cancers in childhood experience cancer worry, defined as concerns about cancer-related issues such as relapse and late effects of treatment. Cancer worry is an important determinant of successful transition to long-term follow-up care. The primary aim of this study was to identify patient-, cancer-, and treatment-related factors associated with cancer worry in AYA survivors. A secondary aim was to explore and understand inappropriate cancer worry (e.g., worry of developing a late effect when not at risk) in this population.Methods: Two hundred and fifty AYA survivors, aged 15-26 years, completed a 6-item Cancer Worry Scale. Selection of factors potentially associated with cancer worry was guided by literature and expert opinion for inclusion in univariable and multivariable regression analyses.