How young adults experience and navigate their cancer journey

Stressful life events such as receiving a diagnosis of cancer can lead to both negative and positive outcomes for patients. For young adults (aged 18-25 years) experiencing cancer, there is growing recognition of a “unique biology” and distinct medical, psychological and information needs which need to be considered. While cancer accounted for 7.7% of the fatal burden in young adults in Australia in 2021, on average 90% of young adults had a chance of surviving for five years or more, resulting in a higher lifelong impact from cancer. A review of the literature was undertaken to identify what is known about how young adults living with cancer experience and navigate their cancer journey as well as identifying gaps in understandings. A search of the literature was conducted for the years 2010 to June 2023. Based on predefined criteria, 46 records were retrieved for review with a major focus on the experience of cancer. The findings from these papers were grouped thematically into three emergent categories; Psycho-social impact, Cancer survivorship and Physical effects. The discussion of the literature is presented under these themes and subsequent subthemes. With young adults recognised as being a distinct group of individuals who are often under researched within the field of oncology, this review of the literature aims to provide healthcare professionals with a better understanding of the care and coordination needs of the young adult experiencing oncological care to help improve patient outcomes and overall satisfaction of care.