Differences in functioning between young adults with cancer and older age groups: A cross-sectional study
Nanna Hejselbaek Andersen1, Josephine Aagesen Christiansen1, Karen la Cour2
1The Research Unit for User Perspectives and Community-based Interventions, Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
European Journal of Cancer Care
|July 17, 2022
Summary
Young adults with cancer experience unique physical, role, and cognitive functioning challenges compared to older cancer patients. Tailored rehabilitation services are crucial for this demographic.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cancer survivorship is increasing across all age groups.
- Young adults (18-39 years) with cancer face distinct psychosocial and physical challenges.
- Understanding age-related differences in functioning is vital for effective cancer care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the physical, role, social, and cognitive functioning of young adults with cancer to middle-aged and older adults with cancer.
- To identify specific functional deficits in young adult cancer survivors.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 654 adult cancer patients (18+ years).
- Participants categorized into three age groups: young adults (18-39), middle-aged adults (40-64), and older adults (≥65).
- Linear regression models used to analyze differences in functioning outcomes.
Main Results:
- Middle-aged and older adults reported significantly worse physical functioning than young adults.
- Young adults exhibited significantly lower role and cognitive functioning compared to older adults.
- No significant differences in social functioning were observed between age groups.
Conclusions:
- Young adults with cancer present with a different pattern of functional impairments compared to older cancer survivors.
- Findings underscore the necessity for age-specific rehabilitation programs for young adult cancer patients.
- Personalized care strategies are essential to address the unique needs of young cancer survivors.
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