Fertility Preservation for Child and Adolescent Cancer Patients in Asian Countries

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Oncology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Fertility preservation (FP) is a growing concern for young cancer patients.
• FP for child and adolescent (C-A) cancer patients is an emerging field, even in developed nations.
• This study investigates the current status and barriers to FP for C-A patients in Asian countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the barriers to fertility preservation for child and adolescent cancer patients in Asian countries.
• To investigate the current status of fertility preservation activities for C-A patients in Asia.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was distributed to founding members of the Asian Society for Fertility Preservation (ASFP).
• The survey was conducted in November 2018, with responses from 11 out of 14 represented countries.
• Data focused on the availability and challenges of FP services for C-A patients.

Main Results:

• FP for C-A patients is still developing across Asia, including countries with specialized FP organizations.
• Standard FP options like embryo, oocyte, and sperm cryopreservation are available; ovarian and testicular tissue cryopreservation are less common and more experimental.
• Major barriers include lack of experience, insufficient systems, low societal and medical staff recognition, and poor collaboration with pediatric departments.

Conclusions:

• Fertility preservation for child and adolescent cancer patients in Asia is in an early stage of development.
• Addressing barriers requires intensive consideration of local cultural and religious needs.
• A multidisciplinary approach involving paramedical staff is vital for high-quality FP services.