Future Directions in Oncofertility and Fertility Preservation: A Report from the 2011 Oncofertility Consortium Conference

Abstract

Fertility impairment and loss due to cancer or its treatment is a significant survivorship consideration for many pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors. Chemotherapeutics, radiation, and surgery can impact the future fertility of men, women, and children with cancer. The field of oncofertility, founded to ensure the reproductive future of cancer survivors, gained momentum with 5 years of funding through a 2007 National Institutes of Health Roadmap Grant for Biomedical Research. This report from working group meetings at the fifth annual Oncofertility Consortium Conference speaks to the present state of oncofertility research and clinical care, existing gaps, and future directions for the field. This summary from conference participants and leaders in the field addresses the science, clinical specialties, and academic scholarship that can guide the field as the Roadmap Grant funding comes to a close.

Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology, Version 2.2018, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

“…106 The Oncofertility Consortium, a group of clinicians and researchers in the United States, was formed in 2007 to address reproductive barriers facing AYA patients and to identify research priorities in this area. 111 Future aims developed during a 2011 meeting are as follows:…”

Identifying and Addressing the Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Summary of an Institute of Medicine Workshop

“…As more people survive their cancer, more attention is being paid to the impact of certain chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery treatments on future fertility [7,8].Thus, the emerging field of "oncofertility" research and care is focusing on preservation issues for children and AYAs with cancer and represents a signature area of needed care for AYAs [9]. The 2012 LIVESTRONG survey found that approximately onequarter of AYAs took steps to preserve their fertility before their cancer treatment began [10].…”

Symptoms: Menopause, Infertility, and Sexual Health

“…Embryo storage may also be costly. In addition, women who do not have a partner may not perceive that it is feasible, and methods of storing oocytes or ovarian tissue may not be as successful (Waimey et al 2013 ). The American Society of Clinical Oncology has published fertility preservation guidelines emphasizing the importance of these pre-treatment discussions and the offering of fertility preservation services (Loren et al 2013 ).…”