Young Cancer Survivors Value Support

Adolescent and young U.S. adult cancer patients rank support from family, friends and other cancer survivors as high priority healthcare needs.

Researchers at the University of Southern California say the traditionally underserved population of 15- to 29-year-old cancer survivors feels that socially connecting with other cancer-afflicted peers of the same age may in some cases be more beneficial than receiving support from family and friends — contrary to what their physicians believe.

Health professionals and survivors value highly the support of family and friends, said Brad Zebrack of the University of Southern California School of Social Work in Los Angeles.

However, meeting other young people who share a common experience becomes an opportunity for young adult cancer patients and survivors to address common concerns, such as coping with uncertainty about one’s health and future, feelings of being alone and isolated, body changes, sexuality and intimacy, dating and relationships, and employment issues.

The findings are published in the Dec. 15 issue of Cancer.