Gaps in care, support, and research among diverse patients with early onset cancers

Early onset cancers (EOC), defined as cancers diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 49, are on the rise. Younger adults may experience amplified cancer-related challenges. Furthermore, the unique needs of Black/African American (B/AA) and Hispanic/Latine (H/L) adults with EOC have been understudied. Here we report on results from the PROSPER study, which explored the experiences of B/AA and H/L patients with EOC.

Patients diagnosed with early onset breast, gastrointestinal (GI), genitourinary, and gynecological cancers were recruited from a single institution in the Northeastern US. Between February 2024 and April 2024, data were collected from 14 women who participated in both individual interviews (B/AA = 7; H/L = 7) and focus groups (B/AA Group, n = 5; H/L Group, n = 3) in English and/or Spanish. Participants (ages 28-49) were diagnosed with breast (n = 7), GI (n = 5), ovarian (n = 1), or breast and GI (n = 1) cancer. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analyzed using modified rapid analysis techniques.

Thematic analysis identified challenges across six psychosocial domains spanning the impact of cancer on the patient and family, limited access to information, communication concerns, financial strain, and balancing care with life activities. We also identified unique barriers within our cohort related to clinical care, support needs, and applicable research.

Our results support existing literature on the challenges faced by patients with EOCs, while also providing critical insights into the unique experiences of B/AA and H/L women with EOCs. These results inform the development of EOC program strategies.