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AYA Cancer

aya cancerHistory of AYA Cancer

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have not always been recognized as a distinct demographic with unique challenges and treatment needs. Traditionally, AYAs were considered either pediatric or adult patients and were treated accordingly, despite not fitting well in either group.

In the early 2000s, however, new NCI data showing lagging survival improvement for patients ages 15-39 years spurred long needed action. A grassroots effort, led by AYA survivors, resulted in the LIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance, to which 13thirty Cancer Connect (then known as Melissa’s Living Legacy Teen Cancer Foundation) was invited to be a charter member. This pioneering group and others slowly began changing the landscape of care for AYAs with cancer with new research, public and professional education, and strong patient support efforts.

Since its beginning, AYA oncology has gained heightened awareness and service delivery has been improving for nearly 82,000 teens and young adults diagnosed each year in the United States. 13thirty Cancer Connect remains a leader in the field, providing innovative peer-support programs and resources to help AYAs live their best lives – today! Read more about the AYA cancer problem in the Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology.

AYA Patient Bill of Rights: 13thirty Cancer Connect has signed on in support of the AYA Patient Bill of Rights created by Stupid Cancer and the Stupid Cancer Scientific Medical Advisory Board. As an AYA patient, survivor, thriver, or where ever you see yourself in your caner journey, we believe that these are your rights and you should not be afraid to use them! Share it, print it, bring it to your next appointment. Whatever you need to do! Together with Stupid Cancer and nonprofit partners across the country, we seek to create an inclusive community of patients, survivors, caregivers, and professionals to end isolation and other challenges for AYAs.

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