Shifting Needs and Preferences: Supporting Young Adult Cancer Patients During the Transition from Active Treatment to Survivorship Care

Purpose: This study was designed to identify and explore the social support needs and preferences of young adult cancer patients during the transition process from active treatment to survivorship care. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with study participants (n = 13, ages 17-25 at the time of cancer diagnosis) within similar to 6 months of completion of active treatment and again 3 months later. Participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire at the first study visit. Applied thematic analysis was used to identify themes from participant interviews. Results: Six key themes and 12 subthemes emerged regarding participant interactions with their support system (Being there, Staying strong, and Treat me the same) and health care team (Connection and relationship building and Seeking knowledge and engaging in advocacy), as well as treatment effects (Uncertainty, Loss, & Changes in Identity and Ups & Downs of Physical Symptoms), coping strategies (Keep busy and Keep a positive vibe), support resources (Support needs change over time), and post-treatment experiences (Trying new things to cope with losses and Managing expectations with realities). Conclusion: Study findings suggest that supportive care needs can change during the transition process from active treatment to survivorship care. Young adult life transitions, such as finding employment and making new friendships, are more stressful when complicated by ongoing physical and psychological treatment effects. Social stressors and potential barriers to participation in supportive care services should be discussed openly with patients and caregivers, especially prior to transitions in care.