Youth services update from our founder, Candy hammeras:
With intent comes opportunity and discovery. In late 2023, I was contacted by several parents to assist their child with a cancer diagnosis. One 15-year-old girl was having difficulty with multiple experts unable to diagnose over the course of 10 months. With the correct expertise, cancer was discovered; unfortunately, the cancer grew, and she now faces daunting treatment with difficult side effects. In my zone, I focused on getting her the best care, but with time to reflect, I realized that this is the problem to solve, the gap to close.
Many years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet Michelle Arroyo, who was spending her life caring for her critically ill son, Gray. Michelle had a successful career in the corporate world but sadly spent many years navigating the healthcare and insurance systems, which cultivated expertise that is helpful to many. Impressed with her depth of knowledge in the health system, alongside a calm and caring demeanor to care for others, Michelle became the obvious and most well-rounded choice to lead CTR’s dedicated youth services.
My ongoing relationship with UCLA for cancer patient care introduced me to Simon Davies, Executive Director of Teen Cancer America. After numerous discussions with him and his team about the addition of our new services led by Michelle, we agreed that in 2024 with CTR’s new youth services, we would embark full-steam ahead and find a way to support each other in serving youth with cancer.
And just like that, with Michelle, TCA, UCLA, and CTR’s new youth services, we now have an aligned mission to care for youth with cancer.
The Importance of Youth Specialized Care
Where youth receive treatment is crucial. Teens and young adults, in particular, can face higher risks, including a greater likelihood of genomic mutations and/or relapse, leading to a poor prognosis. Specialized care tailored to their unique needs is often the key to a successful outcome.
Understanding common Terms like “Childhood,” “Teens,” or “Young Adults” in Pediatric Cancer Care
When we refer to 'youth' in pediatric cancer care, we encompass a broad age range from 0 to 20 years old and often beyond, depending on when the cancer is diagnosed. However, it's essential to recognize that within this age bracket, there are distinct groups, each with unique challenges and needs:
Children: This group includes infants, toddlers, and pre-teens. Their care often requires a delicate balance of medical treatment and emotional support, considering their developmental stages and understanding of their condition.
Teens: As they transition from childhood to adolescence, teens in this age group face challenges related to their growing independence, peer relationships, and self-identity. Their care needs to address both their medical and psychosocial needs.
Young Adults: Nearing adulthood, individuals in this group grapple with issues related to future planning, education, and transitioning to adult care. Their treatment and support must be tailored to their evolving roles and responsibilities.
By understanding these distinctions, we at CTR aim to guide specialized care that addresses the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults diagnosed with cancer.
Youth Cancer: By the Numbers
Annual Diagnosis: Approximately 151,435 youth are diagnosed with cancer yearly.
Age Classification: Youth Cancer Patients are classified up to 20. Notably, 35% of these patients are diagnosed between 15 and 19 AND WILL BE FOLLOWED INTO THEIR MID-LATE 20’S.
Global Impact: Globally, over 300,000 youth are diagnosed with cancer annually. Sadly, 20% of those diagnosed in the U.S. will not survive.
The Lasting Impact of Cancer Treatment
Youths with cancer often face physical and emotional challenges that can persist into adulthood.
These may include:
Physical and emotional suffering affects their well-being, physical fitness, and mental health.
Anxiety and Depression: 82% of youths report negative experiences, 61% experience anxiety, and 69% show signs of severe depression.
Pain and Body Image: 58% of youths reported pain, and 85% felt a negative impact on their body image.
Did You Know?
Every 3 minutes, a family is told their child has cancer.
Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease for youths in America.
The youth cancer survival rate has increased from 20% in 1962 to 80% today.
About 400,000 youths worldwide develop cancer yearly, with only half diagnosed.
CTR's global initiative with the World Health Organization aims to cure at least 60% of youths with six common cancers by 2030.
In Need of Specialized Care for a Diagnosed Child?
Navigating the challenges of youths with cancer can be overwhelming. At CTR, we're here to support you and your family every step of the way. If your child has been diagnosed with cancer and you seek guidance, care, and support, don't hesitate to contact us.