Abstract 1440P
Background
Young adult patients may live differently the cancer experience in terms of disease acceptance, psychological impact, relationships and future projections. We aimed to investigate the experience of young adult patients in the Tunisian context.
Methods
Patients aged 20 - 40 years treated for cancer regardless of type and stage (n=104) were asked to complete a questionnaire in April 2022. The survey included themes about: socioeconomic and psychological impact of cancer, coping strategies, relationships, sexuality and future plans.
Results
We interviewed 78 women (75%) and 26 men (25%); mean age was 33 years old. Thirty-three patients (31.7%) lost their jobs because of sick leaves. Sixty patients (57.7%) revealed financial difficulties. Sadness (54.8%) was the most frequent reaction to disease announcement followed by denial (18.3%) and anger (5.8%). Thirteen patients (12.5%) refused to be informed about disease stage. However, 86 (84.3%) used internet to know more about prognosis and treatment. Spiritual practices were reported by 81.7% of patients. Twenty-three patients (22.1%) reported negative partner reaction: separation (12.5%), indifference (6.7%) and pitiful attitude ( 2.9%). Forty-two patients (40.4%) felt less physically attractive. Negative impact on sexuality was noted in 44.2% of cases. Most fears reported by patients were: recurrence or progression (48%), infertility (48%), leaving their children (12.5%) and dying at young age (8.6%). Forty-three patients (41.3%) reported less self- confidence which was impacted by financial difficulties (OR: 2.77 [1.12-6.87]), physical changes (OR :0.18 [0.07-0.45]) and sexuality (OR: 0.17 [0.06-0.48]). Sixty-three patients (60.6%) preferred not to share same waiting room or day hospital with elderly patients because principally of pitiful comments from others. More psychological care was demanded by 23% of patients. Seventy-eight patients (75%) continued to make future plans mainly patients under 30 (OR: 0.2 [0.04-0.96]). Immigration intention to developed countries was reported by 47.1% of patients because mostly of better health system (61.5%).
Conclusions
Young patients with cancer faced several social and psychological consequences of cancer and may need a dedicated care pathway.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
Has not received any funding.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.