New Australian Research to Help Young Cancer Survivors
Thrive Beyond Treatment
This novel research will not only benefit young Australians, it could also have a global impact on the way cancer survivors receive care
Friday 28 February 2025: Australian researchers at the Prince of Wales Hospital are launching a groundbreaking two-year study to better understand the psychological and cognitive needs of young cancer survivors aged 15-25. The study will provide critical insights into how survivors can successfully navigate life post-cancer treatment, reducing the risk of mental health issues and ensuring they thrive, not just survive.
The Challenge
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors face significant challenges, especially in terms of their mental health and cognitive abilities. Studies show that these issues often peak after cancer treatment, at a time when young people are expected to return to school, work and their social lives.1 Survivors' reintegration into 'normal life' can be daunting, especially after confronting their mortality and having spent extended periods of time removed from everyday routines.
Currently, there is little research to identify which AYAs are most at-risk for psychological and cognitive impacts of cancer, and almost no data has examined this longitudinally. Without appropriate intervention, psychological distress can persist at clinically significant levels for years and even decades after treatment.
Associate Professor Ursula Sansom-Daly at UNSW Sydney, Clinical Psychologist at the Sydney Youth Cancer Service and leader of the study, explains:
"Cancer survivorship isn't just about reaching the end of treatment, it's about the beginning of life after cancer. The journey is different for every individual, with long-term effects often carried over from treatment. We want to ensure that these young survivors not only live but thrive."
Data shows that many AYA cancer survivors struggle with ongoing psychological distress. In fact, 25% of survivors report clinically significant mental health issues1. Cognitive impairments – such as memory and concentration problems – are reported by 18-53% of survivors. 2 These challenges can have lasting effects on a young person's ability to study, work and engage socially, which directly impacts their long-term mental health and economic productivity.
The economic toll of failing to support these young survivors is significant, costing Australia an estimated $508 million annually in lost productivity, largely due to workforce absence and premature death. 3
The Study's Goal
This research, supported by a $242,000 grant from the Prince of Wales Hospital Foundation, fills a critical gap by developing a needs-based care model to identify and support at-risk survivors. The goal is to ensure that young people receive the right support at the right time.
"Our research will not only benefit young Australians, it could also have a global impact on the way we care for cancer survivors," says Associate Professor Sansom-Daly. "By partnering with survivors, we will create a model that allows for timely access to the support they need, tailored to their individual experiences."
Dr. Joanna Fardell, Senior Research Fellow at UNSW Sydney, Neuropsychologist at the Western Sydney Youth Cancer Service, and co-leader of the study, adds:
"Cancer treatment can cause significant cognitive challenges, especially for those with cancers affecting the brain or central nervous system. Memory and focus issues often prevent survivors from studying or working effectively, leading to a loss of confidence and further psychological distress. Our study will provide much-needed data on how to best identify and support these young survivors."
Adry's Cancer Survivorship Story and Call for Participants
The study is actively recruiting young cancer survivors who have recently completed treatment. Those interested in participating can contact the Sydney Youth Cancer Service at Prince of Wales Hospital f
