Supporting Young Adults with Cancer

Mar 9 7:48am | Michael Wridt, Patient Educator | @mwridt

Article written in collaboration with: Dr. Emily McTate Ph.D., M.S., L.P., ABPP, Dr. Kristine Donovan, Ph.D., L.P., Angela Young, L.S.W.

Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with cancer, typically defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 39 years, represent a distinct population with unique medical and psychosocial needs. They often find themselves navigating a healthcare system that can leave them "lost" between pediatric and adult models of care.

In 2025, an estimated 85,480 AYAs were diagnosed with cancer, 4.2% of all diagnoses, and there are approximately 2.1 million cancer survivors in this age range. The concept of AYA cancer care gained national recognition in the late 1990s due to identified gaps in outcomes, leading to the development of formal guidelines and dedicated programs across the U.S.

Unique Needs of AYAs with Cancer

A cancer diagnosis during adolescence or young adulthood can disrupt an individual’s education, career development, social and romantic relationships, family planning and future aspirations, all just as independence and identity are taking shape. AYA’s commonly experience:

Without proactive, age-appropriate support, these challenges can have lasting emotional and practical consequences.

The Importance of AYA-Focused Care

Because AYAs have these unique challenges, AYAs require care plans designed intentionally for them. Traditional pediatric and adult oncology models do not fully address the medical, emotional, reproductive, and quality-of-life concerns young patients face. An AYA focused model strengthens outcomes through:

This approach helps young survivors regain stability and move forward with confidence.

Mayo Clinic’s Commitment to AYA Cancer Care

Mayo Clinic has established a comprehensive AYA Cancer Program for patients ages 15–39, recognizing that cancer during these years affects far more than physical health.

Dedicated Support
- Social workers provide emotional and psychosocial support
- Patient navigators assist with logistics, financial concerns, and basic needs
- Nurse navigators coordinate fertility preservation education and referrals
Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care
- A coordinated, multidisciplinary approach brings together necessary specialties like but not limited to oncology, genetics, gynaecology, urology, surgery along with supportive services like pain management, nutrition counselling, palliative care, and spiritual support—ensuring care extends beyond treatment alone.
Research and Clinical Trials
- Access to clinical trials is especially important for the AYA population, which has historically experienced lower enrollment rates. Increasing awareness of available trials and encouraging participation expands treatment options and advances research aimed at improving outcomes for young people with cancer.
Education and Awareness
- Mayo Clinic is committed to training future clinicians and researchers in AYA-focused care while increasing awareness of this population’s distinct needs within the healthcare system. Through education and advocacy, the program works to ensure young patients are no longer overlooked.

A Call to Action – AYA Awareness Month

April is Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize the unique needs faced by individuals aged 15-39 diagnosed with cancer and to highlight care models designed specifically to support them.

Awareness is more than recognition. It is a commitment to ensuring that no young person facing cancer feels overlooked—and that every AYA has access to care that supports both survival and life beyond treatment.

Action: Participate in our AYA Awareness Month activities.

AYA Awareness Month Event Registration:

Questions for consideration and/or comment below the article:

What do you think most people don’t realize about cancer in young adults?
What improvements would you like to see in AYA cancer care in the next few years?

Related Links:

Mayo Clinic Connect

Informational Resources