Adolescents and young adults (AYAs), aged 15 to 39 years, form a distinct cancer population with unique challenges requiring a hybrid approach to care that incorporates elements of both pediatric and adult oncology. Research on long-term epidemiological trends and cancer characteristics among AYAs in British Columbia (BC) remains limited.
This project utilizes data from the BC Cancer Registry and the CAYACS database to analyze cancer incidence and mortality trends among AYAs from 1971 to 2020. By calculating age-standardized rates and conducting trend analyses, the study aims to identify patterns across 16 major cancer subgroups.
The outcomes of this research will provide critical insights into the evolving cancer burden in AYAs, guiding targeted healthcare interventions, improving outcomes, and addressing the unique needs of this underserved population through data-driven policy and practice recommendations.
Principal Investigator: Rod Rassekh, BC Children’s Hospital; Rachel Altman, Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigator: Stuart Peacock, BC Cancer, Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigator: Stuart Peacock, BC Cancer, Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigator: Helen McTaggart-Cowan, BC Cancer, Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigators: Mary De Vera, University of British Columbia; Helen McTaggart-Cowan, BC Cancer and Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigator: Stuart Peacock, BC Cancer, Simon Fraser University
Principal Investigator: Meera Rayar, BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia