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Nahata L, Anazodo A, Cherven B, Logan S, Meacham LR, Meade CD, Zarnegar-Lumley S, Quinn GP. Optimizing health literacy to facilitate reproductive health decision-making in adolescent and young adults with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70 Suppl 5:e28476. [PMID: 32633029 PMCID: PMC7785658 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite being considered "standard of care" by many organizations, fertility and reproductive health communications and counseling practices remain inconsistent for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) newly diagnosed with cancer and during survivorship. One factor known to affect how information is provided and received in the medical setting is health literacy. Providers should consider health literacy to optimize reproductive health communication with AYAs as they cope with their diagnosis, understand what it means for their future, process information about treatment options, learn about their potential harmful effects on fertility, make quick decisions about fertility preservation, and navigate a future family planning course. Thus, the objectives of this manuscript are to (a) summarize literature on reproductive health literacy; (b) describe health literacy frameworks; (c) examine ways to assess health literacy; and (d) identify ways to enhance clinician-patient communication in the AYA oncofertility setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Nahata
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Women and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brooke Cherven
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Shanna Logan
- School of Women and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lillian R. Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Cathy D. Meade
- Moffitt Cancer Center, Division of Population Science, Health Outcomes & Behavior
| | - Sara Zarnegar-Lumley
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
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2
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Cherven B, Lewis RW, Pruett M, Meacham L, Klosky JL. Interest in fertility status assessment among young adult survivors of childhood cancer. Cancer Med 2022; 12:674-683. [PMID: 35651304 PMCID: PMC9844611 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer survivors who received gonadotoxic treatment are at-risk for future infertility and may desire a fertility status assessment (FSA), defined as semen analysis for males and consultation with a reproductive specialist for females. The purpose of this study was to describe the proportion of, and factors associated with, interest in FSA among young adult survivors of childhood cancer. METHODS This retrospective single-institution review included patients with prior gonadotoxic treatment, aged 18-25 years and >1 year from cancer treatment completion, who received a fertility-focused discussion during survivorship. Documentation of interest in and completion of FSA, worry about infertility, sociodemographic, and clinical characteristics were abstracted from medical records. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for factors associated with interest in FSA. RESULTS Survivors (N = 259) were on average 19.2 ± 1.2 years at their fertility discussion; 55.6% were male and 57.9% non-Hispanic white. Interest in FSA was reported by 50.7% of males and 46.1% of females. Factors related to interest in FSA for males and females respectively, included worry about infertility (OR 2.40, 95%CI 1.11-5.27, p = 0.026 and OR 4.37, 95%CI 1.71-12.43, p = 0.003) and ≥2 fertility discussions (OR 3.78, 95%CI 1.70-8.75, p = 0.001 and 2.45, 95%CI 1.08-5.67, p = 0.033). Among males, fertility preservation consult/procedure at diagnosis (OR 3.02, 95%CI 1.09-9.04, p = 0.039) and high-risk for infertility (OR 2.47, 95%CI 1.07-5.87, p = 0.036) were also associated with interest in FSA. CONCLUSIONS Cancer survivors are interested in FSA, particularly those who have had repeated fertility-focused discussions during survivorship care and who report worry about infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Cherven
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of AtlantaAtlantaGeorgiaUSA,Department of PediatricsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Megan Pruett
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of AtlantaAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Lillian Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of AtlantaAtlantaGeorgiaUSA,Department of PediatricsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - James L. Klosky
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of AtlantaAtlantaGeorgiaUSA,Department of PediatricsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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Iannarino NT, Palmer-Wackerly AL. Fertility Preservation Decision-Making Communication between Young Adult Cancer Patients and Their Romantic Partners: An Application of the DECIDE Typology. Health Commun 2022; 37:778-789. [PMID: 33438453 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1868065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Infertility risk and fertility preservation (FP) are often salient quality-of-life concerns for young adults (YAs; i.e., 18-39 years old) who have experienced a cancer diagnosis. However, we know little about how members of this population communicate with close loved ones when faced with choices about FP before beginning cancer treatment. In this study, we apply the Family Determinants of Clinical Decisions (DECIDE) Typology to explore how YA cancer patients and their romantic partners negotiate unique and complex decisions about fertility with one another, their parents, and other family members. Through individual semi-structured interviews with 12 YA patient-romantic partner dyads, we found that most (n = 8) YA couples were collaborative in their decision-making communication, but that they varied in the extent to which they valued family involvement (i.e., open-, filtered-, and closed-collaborative). Other YA patients were independent and did not involve any partners or family members in decision-making, or they exemplified incongruent decision-making styles between the involved parties. Our findings have multiple implications for decision-making theory and practice in both cancer and FP communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas T Iannarino
- Department of Language, Culture, and Communication, University of Michigan-Dearborn
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4
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Xie J, Sun Q, Duan Y, Cheng Q, Luo X, Zhou Y, Liu X, Xiao P, Cheng ASK. Reproductive concerns among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: A scoping review of current research situations. Cancer Med 2022; 11:3508-3517. [PMID: 35332694 PMCID: PMC9487873 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility is a significant concern among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors and their caregivers, especially after their completion of cancer treatment programs. Concerns about fertility affect not only cancer patients' psychological well‐being, but also all aspects of their medical treatments, including treatment protocol, decision‐making, and treatment adherence. In this scoping review, the PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang electronic databases were searched according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews. The searches identified 669 articles, 54 of which met the inclusion criteria. Reviewers extracted the data on the study characteristics, measurements, positive factors, negative factors, and additional themes. This scoping review included studies from 10 countries. Most studies were quantitative using a cross‐sectional design. The prevalence of reproductive concerns among AYA cancer survivors ranged from 44% to 86%, and 28% to 44% of the survivors experienced moderate to severe concerns. The specific implementation of fertility consultation, including timing, consult frequency, and content, deserves ongoing exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfei Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Sun
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinglong Duan
- Department of Emergency, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qinqin Cheng
- Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaofei Luo
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Health Management Center of Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Panpan Xiao
- Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Andy S K Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, China
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6
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Nahata L, Olsavsky A, Dattilo TM, Lipak KG, Whiteside S, Yeager ND, Audino A, Rausch J, Klosky JL, O'Brien SH, Quinn GP, Gerhardt CA. Parent-Adolescent Concordance Regarding Fertility Perspectives and Sperm Banking Attempts in Adolescent Males With Cancer. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:1149-1158. [PMID: 34333651 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Approximately half of male childhood cancer survivors experience impaired fertility, yet fertility preservation (FP) remains underutilized. Although parent recommendation influences adolescents' decision-making, parents may be uncertain and/or underrate their sons' parenthood goals. This study assessed parent-adolescent and family-level concordance regarding adolescent fertility perspectives (i.e., values, goals) and associations with FP attempts. METHODS A prospective pilot study examined the impact of a family-centered values clarification tool (FAST) on banking attempts among adolescent males newly diagnosed with cancer at risk for infertility. The FAST assessed adolescent and parent perceptions of adolescents' fertility values and goals (i.e., perceived threat of infertility, perceived benefits/barriers to banking). Parent-adolescent concordance and family-level concordance on fertility perspectives were examined, along with associations with banking attempts and salient demographic factors. RESULTS Ninety-eight participants (32 adolescents aged 12-20, 37 mothers, 29 fathers) from 32 families completed the FAST before treatment initiation. Parent-adolescent dyads were concordant on approximately one-half of responses. Banking attempts were associated with higher family-level concordance regarding perceived benefits, r(32) = .40, p = .02. Older adolescent age was associated with higher family-level concordance regarding perceived threat, r(31) = .37, p = .04, and benefits, r(32) = .40, p = .03. Fathers' education was associated with higher family-level concordance regarding barriers, r(21) = .53, p = .01. CONCLUSIONS When parents were concordant with their son's fertility values and goals, particularly perceived benefits, adolescents were more likely to attempt FP. Clinicians should facilitate sharing of fertility perspectives within families before cancer treatment, especially with younger adolescents. Psychosocial support for families facing FP decisions is recommended at diagnosis and across the care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Nahata
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.,Nationwide Children's Hospital.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Nicholas D Yeager
- Nationwide Children's Hospital.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
| | - Anthony Audino
- Nationwide Children's Hospital.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
| | - Joseph Rausch
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
| | - James L Klosky
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine & The Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
| | - Sarah H O'Brien
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.,Nationwide Children's Hospital.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
| | | | - Cynthia A Gerhardt
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine
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7
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Cherven B, Meacham L, Williamson Lewis R, Klosky JL, Marchak JG. Evaluation of the Modified Reproductive Concerns Scale Among Emerging Adult Cancer Survivors. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 10:661-667. [PMID: 33769891 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The reproductive concerns of emerging adult survivors of childhood cancer are not well described, and valid measurement tools tailored to this population are lacking. The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate a modified version of the Reproductive Concerns Scale (mRCS) among male and female survivors of childhood cancer. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data collected from patients enrolled on an infertility-educational intervention study. Participants completed the mRCS at baseline. Cancer treatment data were abstracted from participant medical records. Principal component analyses were conducted to evaluate the factor structure of the mRCS for males, females, and the entire sample. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha. Open-ended responses were analyzed and used to assess the validity of relevant quantitative items on the mRCS. Results: The sample consisted of N = 98 participants who were an average of 19.1 (±1.1) years of age, 45.9% were male, and 61.2% were non-Hispanic white. Factor analyses revealed three domains: Fertility Concerns (Cronbach's alpha = 0.77), Health Concerns (α = 0.74), and Information Seeking (α = 0.57). Sex-specific factor analyses identified differences in scale items for males. The open-ended responses aligned well with participant scores on the Fertility Concerns subscale. Conclusion: The mRCS consists of three subscales relevant to emerging adult survivors of childhood cancer. Further analysis by sex suggests that separate scales for males and females are warranted. Future research is warranted to determine the clinical utility of using the mRCS as a screening tool to identify and address reproductive concerns among emerging adult survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Cherven
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lillian Meacham
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rebecca Williamson Lewis
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - James L Klosky
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jordan Gilleland Marchak
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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8
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Nahata L, Dattilo TM, Olsavsky AL, Lipak KG, Whiteside S, Yeager ND, Audino A, Klosky JL, Rausch J, Saraf A, O'Brien SH, Quinn GP, Gerhardt CA. Impact of a novel family-centered values clarification tool on adolescent sperm banking attempts at the time of a new cancer diagnosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1561-9. [PMID: 33564937 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02092-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Over half of males experience fertility impairment after childhood cancer therapy, which often causes psychosocial distress. Yet, fertility preservation (FP) remains underutilized. The goals of this study were to determine the feasibility and impact of implementing a family-centered FP values clarification tool on sperm banking attempts among adolescent males newly diagnosed with cancer, and identify key determinants of banking attempts. METHODS A prospective pilot study was conducted among families of males (12-25 years old), prior to cancer therapy. Thirty-nine of 41 families agreed to participate (95%); 98 participants (32 adolescents, 37 mothers, 29 fathers) completed the Family-centered Adolescent Sperm banking values clarification Tool (FAST). Analyses assessed the impact of the FAST on banking attempts and examined associations between demographic/medical characteristics, FAST subscales (perceived threat, benefits, barriers), and banking attempts. RESULTS Twenty-three (59%) adolescents attempted to bank, compared to 8 adolescents (33%) during baseline assessment (p=.04). Significant associations were identified between banking attempts and adolescents' report of perceived threat (rpb=.45, p=.01) and benefits (rpb=.57, p=.01). Only mothers' proxy reports of adolescent perceived threat (rpb=.42, p=.01) and benefits (rpb=.47, p=.003) were associated with banking attempts, while fathers' self-reported perceived benefits (rpb=.43, p=.03), self-reported barriers (rpb=.49, p=.01), and proxy reports of adolescent perceived threat (rpb=.38, p=.04) and benefits (rpb=.59, p=.02) were associated with banking attempts. CONCLUSION Adolescent sperm banking attempt rates significantly increased after implementation of a family-centered FP values clarification tool prior to cancer treatment. Findings underscore the importance of targeting both adolescents and their parents, particularly fathers, in FP efforts.
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9
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Flynn JS, Russell KM, Lehmann V, Schenck LAM, Klosky JL. Parent recommendation to bank sperm among at-risk adolescent and young adult males with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2020; 67:e28217. [PMID: 32453503 PMCID: PMC7688489 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.28217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) males newly diagnosed with cancer are often faced with making quick decisions about whether to cryopreserve ("bank") sperm prior to treatment initiation. Given that parental influence is crucial among young patients, the present study examines the prevalence of and factors associated with parent recommendation to bank sperm. PROCEDURE Parents of 13- to 21-year-old males newly diagnosed with cancer and at risk for infertility secondary to impending gonadotoxic treatment completed questionnaires typically within one week of treatment initiation. Medical and sociodemographic data, communication factors, and psychological factors were considered in a logistic regression model of parent report of parental recommendation to bank sperm (yes/no). RESULTS Surveys from 138 parents (70.3% female) of 117 AYA males (mean age = 16.1 years, SD = 2.0) were analyzed. Over half of parents recommended banking to their sons (N = 82; 59.4%). Parents who received a provider recommendation to bank sperm (odds ratio [OR] = 18.44, 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.20-81.01, P < 0.001) or who believed in the benefits of banking (OR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.02-1.47, P = 0.03) were significantly more likely to recommend sperm banking. CONCLUSIONS Given parents' role in influencing sperm banking outcomes, provider recommendation and promotion of banking benefits may influence parents and empower initiation of these sensitive discussions with their sons. Utilization of this approach should yield beneficial outcomes regardless of the banking decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S. Flynn
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Kathryn M. Russell
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Vicky Lehmann
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee,Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lauren A.-M. Schenck
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee,Department of Psychology, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - James L. Klosky
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee,The Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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Dattilo TM, Lipak KG, Clark OE, Gehred A, Sampson A, Quinn G, Zajo K, Sutter ME, Bowman-Curci M, Gardner M, Gerhardt CA, Nahata L. Parent-Child Communication and Reproductive Considerations in Families with Genetic Cancer Predisposition Syndromes: A Systematic Review. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2020; 10:15-25. [PMID: 32898455 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Uptake of genetic testing for heritable conditions is increasingly common. In families with known autosomal dominant genetic cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS), testing youth may reduce uncertainty and provide guidance for future lifestyle, medical, and family building considerations. The goals of this systematic review were to examine: (1) how parents and their children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYAs) communicate and make decisions regarding testing for CPS and (2) how they communicate and make decisions about reproductive health/family building in the context of risk for CPS. Methods: Searches of MEDLINE/Pubmed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO yielded 4161 articles since January 1, 2000, which contained terms related to youth, pediatrics, decision-making, genetic cancer predispositions, communication, and family building. Results: Articles retained (N = 15) included five qualitative, six quantitative, and four mixed-method designs. Parents generally agreed testing results should be disclosed to CAYAs at risk or affected by genetic conditions in a developmentally appropriate manner. Older child age and child desire for information were associated with disclosure. Greater knowledge about risk prompted adolescents and young adults to consider the potential impact on future relationships and family building. Conclusions: Most parents believed it was their responsibility to inform their CAYAs about genetic testing results, particularly to optimize engagement in recommended preventative screening/lifestyle behaviors. Disclosing test results may be challenging due to concerns such as young age, developmental appropriateness, and emotional burden. Additional research is needed on how CPS risk affects CAYAs' decisions about reproductive health and family building over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Dattilo
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Keagan G Lipak
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Olivia E Clark
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Amani Sampson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gwendolyn Quinn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kristin Zajo
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Megan E Sutter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Cynthia A Gerhardt
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Leena Nahata
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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11
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Morgan TL, Young BP, Lipak KG, Lehmann V, Klosky J, Quinn GP, Gerhardt CA, Nahata L. "We Can Always Adopt": Perspectives of Adolescent and Young Adult Males with Cancer and Their Family on Alternatives to Biological Parenthood. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2020; 9:572-578. [PMID: 32320315 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Approximately half of male childhood cancer survivors experience impaired fertility, which is known to cause psychological distress. Yet, less than 50% of at-risk adolescent and young adult (AYA) males pursue fertility preservation (FP) at diagnosis. Alternatives to biological parenthood (e.g., adoption/sperm donation) may be considered, but little is known about perspectives regarding these alternatives among AYA males and their families. Methods: Families of AYAs were recruited for a mixed-method study examining FP decisions at cancer diagnosis. One month later, 48 participants from 20 families (18 male AYAs, 12-22 years of age, 19 mothers, 11 fathers) completed semistructured interviews, including two questions about: (a) alternative routes to biological parenthood, and (b) their knowledge about the processes involved and/or challenges associated with such alternatives. Verbatim transcripts were coded for thematic content using the constant comparison method. Results: Three main themes were identified, of which two represent both ends of considering alternative parenthood: (a) Willingness to consider alternatives to biological parenthood, primarily adoption; (b) No consideration/discussion of alternative family building options; and (c) Variable knowledge of alternatives and/or associated challenges. Notably, more AYAs than parents mentioned a specific preference for biological children. Conclusions: One-month postcancer diagnosis, most parents reported willingness to consider alternatives to biological parenthood for their sons, while AYA males were less knowledgeable or open to these options. Future research should prospectively examine how these attitudes affect FP decisions before treatment. Medical and psychosocial providers should counsel patients and survivors accordingly to optimize reproductive outcomes and prevent psychosocial distress if parenthood goals are unfulfilled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor L Morgan
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Braedon P Young
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Keagan G Lipak
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Vicky Lehmann
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James Klosky
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Cynthia A Gerhardt
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Leena Nahata
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Nahata L, Morgan TL, Lipak KG, Clark OE, Yeager ND, O’Brien SH, Whiteside S, Audino A, Quinn GP, Gerhardt CA. Perceptions of participating in family-centered fertility research among adolescent and young adult males newly diagnosed with cancer: A qualitative study. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27966. [PMID: 31407498 PMCID: PMC6754273 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over half of male childhood cancer survivors experience infertility after treatment, which is known to cause distress and impact future quality of life. Sperm banking rates remain low, and little is known about how adolescent and young adult (AYA) males and their families make fertility preservation (FP) decisions. This study examined AYA and parent perceptions of participating in a research study focused on testing a new FP decision tool at the time of cancer diagnosis. METHODS Forty-four participants (19 mothers, 11 fathers, 14 male AYAs 12-25 years old) from 20 families completed brief assessments at diagnosis and approximately one month later, including a qualitative interview exploring the impact of study participation. Verbatim transcripts were coded through thematic content analysis using the constant comparison method. RESULTS Two major themes emerged: (1) a positive effect of participating in the study and (2) a neutral effect (no positive/negative effect of participation). Subthemes that emerged for participants who noted a positive effect included (a) participation prompted deeper thinking, (b) participation influenced family conversations, and (c) participation resulted in altruism/helping others. No participant reported a negative effect. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that participation in family-centered research focused on FP among AYA males, before treatment begins, is perceived as beneficial or neutral at the time of a new cancer diagnosis. These findings provide support for future family-centered FP interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Nahata
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
- Divisions of Endocrinology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Taylor L. Morgan
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Keagan G. Lipak
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Olivia E. Clark
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Nicholas D. Yeager
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
- Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Sarah H. O’Brien
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
- Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
- Center for Innovation and Pediatric Practice, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | | | - Anthony Audino
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
- Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Cynthia A. Gerhardt
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
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