Decision on Fertility Preservation in Cancer Patients: Development of Information Materials for Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Abstract:Infertility is a potential side effect of cancer chemotherapy. As the number of AYA-aged survivors increases, future fertility becomes an important issue. However, many patients are not adequately informed and oncologists point the lack of information as a barrier to discussion. Our aim was to produce information materials, tailored to oncologists' needs to promote and support discussion on infertility risk and fertility preservation with AYA-aged patients. After literature review, information materials were successfully developed and are currently being distributed to healthcare professionals, in Portugal, with the collaboration of several national organizations. These information materials will contribute to shared, informed decisions regarding fertility preservation in AYA-aged patients.

Childbearing across borders: Fertility and parenthood attitudes and decisions among breast cancer survivors in USA and Portugal

“…In 2016, the Portuguese Society of Oncology published recommendations concerning FP in cancer patients for the Portuguese population [14]. Concomitantly, various clinical intervention efforts have been made to strengthen the importance of fertility counselling for Portuguese cancer patients [16, 17]. Our results show oncologists are the preferred source of fertility information.…”

“…These findings are similar to others [15] demonstrating an underutilization of FP among cancer patients in single payer systems that would otherwise cover the expense. Since oncofertility in Portugal is still in an early development stage [16], these results may reflect the more established norms concerning reproductive health for USA cancer patients. Corroborating this view, our study shows a trend for USA women to report more fertility discussions with healthcare providers.…”

Sexuality and cancer: The experience of adolescents and young adults

“…Use of these approaches varies accordingly to the extent to which HCP are confident or otherwise regarding the assessment and management of sexuality and their knowledge of specialist services to which they can refer . While targeted HCP educational interventions have proved successful, time and cost are likely to restrict access. The inclusion of treatment‐associated sexual difficulties as core a topic in oncology education programs is a further consideration.…”

“…70 Use of these approaches varies accordingly to the extent to which HCP are confident or otherwise regarding the assessment and management of sexuality and their knowledge of specialist services to which they can refer. 35,69 While targeted HCP educational interventions have proved successful, [71][72][73]…”

“…Developing or adapting existing high‐quality adult patient guidance to AYA patient groups is an important step in the development of age‐appropriate patient‐reported outcome measures. The use of a “toolbox approach,” patient education and self‐management tools and available models could constitute a framework of service provision for addressing sexuality in AYA cancer services.…”