Experiences of Adolescents and Young Adults Living With Advanced Cancer: An Integrative Review

Oncol Nurs Forum. 2019 Jul 1;46(4):451-458. doi: 10.1188/19.ONF.451-458.

Abstract

Problem identification: Knowledge about the experiences of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) living with advanced cancer may be limited. This review was conducted to examine the literature concerning this subject.

Literature search: A comprehensive search was conducted using CINAHL®, the Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, Embase®, the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), and PubMed®.

Data evaluation: Each study was systematically assessed. An evidence table detailing key components was compiled.

Synthesis: There is a growing body of knowledge about the experiences of individuals with advanced cancer. However, insufficient evidence exists regarding the experiences of AYAs with advanced cancer.

Implications for research: The lack of knowledge about AYAs and how they experience living with advanced cancer requires additional research; this will lead to increased understanding of their challenges and more effective supportive interventions.

Keywords: adolescents and young adults; advanced cancer; integrative review; interventions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Adult
  • Attitude to Death*
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Young Adult