Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) Living With Cancer: What to Know
Presented by Scott J. Capozza
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Nonfinancial: Scott Capozza is a coauthor for Oncology Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Guidebook for Clinicians. Scott has no other nonfinancial interests or relationships with regard to the content presented in this course.
Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer have unique needs that are often not identified or addressed. The AYA population is often poorly defined as they do not fall within the definitions of the pediatric and older adult cancer populations. Because of this lack of understanding of who AYAs with cancer are, their needs are similarly misunderstood and subsequently not addressed. These needs are multidimensional and require a team approach. This educational module aims to concisely define who the AYA with cancer is, identify the unique needs and concerns facing this population, and offer strategies to address these unique concerns.
Meet your instructor
Scott J. Capozza
Scott Capozza has worked as a physical therapist in a multidisciplinary survivorship clinic as well as an outpatient physical therapist dedicated to oncology rehabilitation. He received a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Ithaca College in 1999. Scott initially worked in pediatric physical therapy, including outpatient…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Introduction to the AYA Population
It is important to correctly identify the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population to effectively address their unique needs. The AYA population will be defined, and the most common cancers seen in this group will be discussed.
2. Defining the Unique Challenges of the AYA Population
The AYA population presents with unique challenges that set them apart from the pediatric population as well as the older adult population with cancer. The multiple life transitions associated with the AYA population will be reviewed. Additionally, some of the challenges of the AYA diagnosed with cancer, including loss of independence, financial toxicity, appointment burnout, social dissociation, and fertility preservation, will be defined.
3. Addressing the Unique Needs of the AYA Population
It is important to define effective strategies to communicate with the AYA population about their needs and concerns. Healthcare providers need to identify when it is appropriate to make personalized referrals to help address the psychosocial needs of AYAs. Additionally, identifying strategies to maximize AYA engagement in rehab, including flexible scheduling, use of telehealth, and referral to free/low-cost community-based exercise programs, will be discussed.
