1694MO - Socio-economic consequences among adolescent and young adult cancer patients: A European perspective

Background

The effect of a cancer diagnosis is wide-ranging with potential negative impact on socioeconomic life such as high (in)direct treatment-related costs and income loss. These socioeconomic consequences differ per country, healthcare setting and patient population. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs), 18-39 years old at cancer diagnosis, are recognized as a distinct population within the oncology community with age-specific problems and needs. Insight into the socioeconomic consequences of cancer at this young age is of utmost importance to provide the best possible supportive care to this group. This study explores the socio-economic consequences among AYAs across 11 European countries.

Methods

This study presents a sub-analysis of the SEC-Study data, focusing on AYAs who were currently treated or treated before. Participants were included by hospitals of the Organization of European Cancer Institutes network and patient organizations in 11 countries (Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland). Next to measuring financial distress through the Financial Index of Toxicity, our survey explored other socio-economic consequences like income loss, coping behaviour regarding treatment related expenses and access to financial services.

Results

316 AYA cancer patients participated (median age: 35 years), of which 38% had to permanently quit their job due to their cancer (range: 19% (France, Norway); 71% (Spain)) and 70% suffered from income loss (range: 53% (Bulgaria); 89% (Belgium)). AYAs coped by using their savings (43%), spending less on luxury goods/ leisure activities (37%), spending less on basic goods (29%), applying for financial assistance (26%), or borrowing money (20%), although differences exist between countries. Most AYAs (82%) were worried about their family’s financial situation and 58% stated it’s important to them to discuss the personal cost of treatment with their doctor.

Conclusions

This European study shows that many AYAs face serious socio-economic consequences, although differences exist between countries. Those AYA cancer patients at risk of impacted socio-economic outcomes require bespoke financial support.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

The authors.

Funding

The project has been funded by the European Fair Pricing Network and the Organization of European Cancer Institutes.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.