Aspects of long-term follow-up for AYA cancer survivors—From an orthopedic oncologist—

Abstract

I am a musculoskeletal tumor surgeon who has worked at a cancer center, and I would like to share my thoughts and experiences in treating AYA patients. In the case of patients between 15 and 19 years of age, cancer treatment often causes interruption of schoolwork, and thus academic support is essential. If the patient is under 18 years of age, they should apply for the Pediatric Chronic Specified Diseases, and if the patient has undergone an artificial joint replacement due to osteosarcoma, they should apply for a physical disability certificate. In general, people between 20 and 39 years of age are undergoing dramatic changes in their lives, such as employment, love, marriage, and childbirth, and it is necessary to take measures according to their stage of life. In addition to applying for the physical disability certificate, I sometimes explain the “employment quota for the disabled” to those who are thinking of finding a job. Patients with artificial joint replacements in their limbs are often considered to have a physical handicap, but by being open about their disability, they can receive employment opportunities and a comfortable working environment. Although treatment begins at the initial consultation room (i.e., with only the patient and doctor), good treatment is not created by the doctor and patient alone. I believe that the support of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) is important for the well-being of patients.