New Guidance for Clinicians: Supporting Adolescents and Young Adults Living with and Beyond Cancer
The Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) has published a practice article offering targeted guidance for clinicians supporting a unique patient population: adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged 15 to 39 years who are living with and beyond cancer.
These patients face a distinct set of challenges that differ significantly from both pediatric and older adult populations.
Key Recommendations for Clinicians
The article outlines several critical areas for focused care:
Disrupted Milestones
Clinicians should address the impact of cancer on developmental milestones, including fertility, sexual health, and advance care planning. These elements of life are often derailed by a diagnosis during this formative age.
Mental Health Impacts
Regular screening for anxiety and depression is essential. Support should include counselling, referrals, and medications as appropriate to address the psychological toll of the disease and its treatment.
Patient-Centred Language
Use terms preferred by the patient and avoid minimizing the diagnosis. The language of care should respect the individual’s experience and identity.
Post-Treatment Support
Given that most AYAs may live 50–60 years after treatment, they require ongoing follow-up aligned with guidelines. Clinicians must monitor for long-term physical impacts, including the risk of recurrence.
Intersectional Identities
Ask about preferred names, pronouns, and other aspects of identity. Acknowledging the whole person is a cornerstone of effective care.
Author and Context
The article is coauthored by Dr. Perri Tutelman, a clinical psychologist and assistant professor at the University of Calgary. CMAJ has also recently published 2026 cancer trends in Canada and research on later cancers in AYA cancer survivors, underscoring the growing focus on this population.