UTHealth Houston research identifies gaps in care for young cancer survivors

A study led by UTHealth Houston researchers has found that adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 face significant gaps in long-term cancer survivorship care. The analysis, published in the Journal of Cancer Survivorship, indicates that follow-up care often neglects essential physical, mental, and emotional health needs, focusing instead on basic functional evaluations.

Factors contributing to these care gaps include geographic mobility and changes in insurance coverage. The research, conducted by the AYA National Standards for Cancer Survivorship Care Consortium, utilized the National Cancer Institute’s standards as a benchmark. These standards advocate for comprehensive support, including psychological services, physical therapy, sexual health, and fertility services to manage the long-term effects of cancer and its treatment.