New Guidelines for Long-Term Follow-Up Care of Young Adult Cancer Survivors

The survival rates for adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 diagnosed with cancer are notably high. However, the aggressive treatments necessary for cure can lead to persistent long-term side effects that impact both physical and mental health. Given the diversity of cancer types and therapies, there is a scarcity of comprehensive data on which follow-up care components are most crucial for supporting the ongoing health and quality of life in young adults.

A recent review conducted by an interdisciplinary team of experts—including oncologists, psychologists, pulmonologists, and gynecologists—from the University Hospitals of Leipzig and Dresden as well as the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT/UCC) Dresden, aims to address this gap. Analyzing over 13,000 scientific publications, the team developed 32 tailored recommendations for effective long-term follow-up care specifically suited for young cancer survivors.

While pediatric oncology has established protocols for individualized follow-up, such structured approaches are lacking for adolescent and young adult (AYA) populations. This review provides a systematic framework to guide clinicians in offering personalized, efficient, and long-term care. It emphasizes early detection of secondary illnesses and highlights the importance of addressing psychological stress, which many young survivors face after treatment.

In Dresden, efforts are underway to enhance support for young patients. For instance, patients aged 16 to 28 are assigned AYA Guides to facilitate connections with peers and improve their hospital experience. The ultimate goal is to create dedicated AYA wards where young patients can receive specialized medical and psychosocial care in a supportive environment.

The outpatient transition clinic at Dresden collaborates across pediatric and adult services, helping young survivors manage their transition to adult care and actively participate in their follow-up plans. This holistic approach aims to quickly identify long-term side effects and potential relapses, ensuring prompt intervention.

This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, providing evidence-based guidance to improve survivorship outcomes for young adults affected by cancer.