LAUSR

Purpose: With increasing number of childhood cancer survivors, focus has recently shifted to improving future quality of life and long-term complications, such as infertility. Despite national guidelines, fertility preservation is discussed in less than half of the eligible patients. In this study, we sought to discover if education gaps regarding fertility exist within our practice, in efforts to address these gaps to improve the quality of cancer care we provide. Methods: A retrospective electronic survey was administered to eligible adolescent and young adult oncology patients. Results: Of the 63 patients approached, 47 responded to the survey. Before initiation of antineoplastic therapy, 22/47 (46.8%) stated that they were concerned about their fertility to some degree; however, only 11/47 (23.4%) report pursuing fertility preservation. When asked why they decided against steps to preserve fertility, 15/36 (41.6%) reported that they did not know they had options. Of all patients that completed the survey, 28/47 (59.6%) requested additional information regarding their fertility. Conclusion: Majority of respondents recall having a discussion regarding the impact of antineoplastic therapy on their fertility at the time of diagnosis, which was initiated by their oncologist. However, less than half reported satisfaction with these discussions. Although this study did not demonstrate statistical significance, it has resulted in development of a multidisciplinary oncofertility team for fertility preservation referrals, at our institution, as well as education materials for all newly diagnosed oncology patients.