Current Oncology (Jul 2024)

Addressing the Rising Trend in Early-Age-Onset Cancers in Canada

  • Petra Wildgoose,
  • Filomena Servidio-Italiano,
  • Michael J. Raphael,
  • Monika Slovinec D’Angelo,
  • Cassandra Macaulay,
  • Shaqil Kassam,
  • Nancy Nixon,
  • José Perea,
  • Sarah Hamilton,
  • Ravi Ramjeesingh,
  • Sharlene Gill,
  • Aaron Pollett,
  • Shuji Ogino,
  • Tomotaka Ugai,
  • Abha Gupta

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31070303
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 31, no. 7
pp. 4063 – 4078

Abstract

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A multi-disciplinary symposium on early-age onset cancer (EAOC) was held in October 2023 to explore challenges experienced by this rapidly growing population. A major outcome of the symposium was recognition of the remarkable similarities of EAOC patients’ journeys across cancer sites. Prevention and early detection of cancer are hindered by a lack of awareness among patients and family doctors that cancer can and does occur in younger persons. Distinct characteristics of the disease—such as a later stage at diagnosis and more aggressive tumor biology—require more potent treatments, which result in profound physical and psychosocial consequences that are unique to this age group. EAOC patient empowerment emerged as another key theme of the symposium. The development of a greater number of specialized clinics was called for, and patient support groups were recognized for the vital role they play in empowering patients and their families. Leading-edge medical advancements hold tremendous hope across the spectrum of EAOC care. New technologies based on genomic profiling, immunotherapy and microbiome alteration contribute to the development of highly effective, personalized approaches to treatment. All symposium participants expressed their commitment to speak with one resounding voice to advocate for equitable access to leading care practices for EAOC patients; thus, a fourth symposium is planned for November 2024.

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