Introduction
There is growing evidence that exercise and nutrition interventions can significantly improve the long-term physical and psychosocial outcomes of cancer survivors. However, limited research has explored how adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYA-CS) access these supports after treatment, or what program are available. This study aimed to investigate how AYA-CS engage with exercise and nutrition resources and to identify gaps in support from the perspectives of both survivors and oncology healthcare professionals (OHPs).
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with AYA-CS (aged 15–25, within five years post-treatment and OHPs (medicine, nursing, and allied health, with at least of AYA experience). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using an inductive approach to reflect the lived experiences of participants.
Results
Eighteen participants (eleven AYA-CS and seven OHPs) from both adult and paediatric settings across Australia. Analysis identified three key themes: 1) Ongoing impacts of a cancer diagnosis, 2) Towards optimal care, and 3) Age as a critical construct
The first theme describes the ongoing impact cancer has had on the young person from a physical and psychosocial perspective and its lasting impact it has on managing their long-term health and well-being. The second theme identifies the many challenges young people face when trying to access community-based supports, along with barriers and facilitators to this. The final theme highlights the unique needs of AYA as they navigate health, in particular how it relates to their life stage development.
Conclusions
Young people face a number of challenges in accessing necessary well-being supports post-treatment and there is need for individualised exercise and diet interventions. There is a need for healthcare services to better identify and tailor support for AYA-CS to ensure that their needs are met. Further research is needed to integrate these priorities into clinical practice.