Cancer in adolescents and young adults

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer refers to cancers diagnosed in individuals aged 15 to 39 and represent around 4 % of all cancer.

The most prevalent cancers among AYAs include:

- Ages 15-19: Thyroid cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, brain tumors, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

- Ages 20-29: Thyroid cancer, testicular cancer, melanoma, and Hodgkin lymphoma.

- Ages 30-39: Breast cancer, thyroid cancer, melanoma, and colorectal cancer.

Cancer during adolescence presents unique characteristics, not only from a biological and prognostic point of view, but also in terms of its social, educational, occupational, reproductive, and emotional-psychological implications.

Despite advances in cancer care, survival improvements in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients have been less pronounced compared to those seen in paediatric or older adult populations.

Sarcoma

Sarcoma represents 1 and 2% of AYA cancers.

Among bone sarcoma, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma are the most frequent in adolescence, while chondrosarcoma is the most frequent in 30–39-year-old. Among the soft tissue sarcoma, liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma are the most common in those aged 30-39 years, rhabdomyosarcoma is the most frequent in adolescents.

This group of heterogeneous tumors includes over 80 different subtypes and requires highly specialized multidisciplinary management.

Our Sarcoma Unit has extensive experience in the clinical management of sarcoma patients, including adolescents and young adults. We offer comprehensive, multidisciplinary care delivered by a team of experts, along with access to innovative experimental therapeutic options.

Another key aspect of managing this population is the evaluation of short- and long-term side effects associated with cancer treatments. In this regard, when radiation therapy is indicated, proton therapy offers significant benefits for AYA patients. This cutting-edge technology is available at our center through the Proton Therapy Unit, ensuring precise and effective treatment while minimizing long-term sequelae.