Dados do Trabalho

Title

The significance of oncofertility in adolescents and young adults of reproductive age

Objective

The aim of this review is to study about how oncofertility is approached in adolescents and young adults of reproductive age.

Methods

A review of the last five years' worth of literature was done. The search was performed in the Virtual Health Library (BVS) and Pubmed database with the descriptors "oncology", “fertility preservation”, “infertility." and “reproductive health”. Portuguese, English, and Spanish-language complete articles were taken into consideration.

Results

Fertility preservation is an emerging topic in oncology but is not widely discussed among adolescents and young adult survivors.
When we consider that a portion of this patient population will experience future cancer remission and must contemplate having children in the future, it is crucial that they have the right to be informed about potential adverse effects of cancer treatment, such as hypogonadism and infertility; Considering the efficacy of both treatments, we need to refer the patient to a fertility specialist before the cancer treatment begins.
There is a discrepancy between the patient's desire to preserve their reproductive capacity and the frequency with which they are provided with this information. This discussion will alleviate their anxiety and enhance their quality of life.
It must be acknowledged that cancer and infertility are not explicitly linked, but treatment can have a negative impact in this area.
Oncologists have limited experience with fertility preservation and have little time to elucidate the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, as well as their implications. Thus, it is necessary to have a fertility reference for patients who express interest or are unsure of their decision.

Conclusion

This literature review would appear to demonstrate that patients need and desire information about the effects of cancer treatment on their fertility. In cancer survivors, we can see the significance of this theme.
Some gaps need to be filled so that we can provide the right information at the right moment about all of the available fertility treatment options and so that the quality of life of cancer patients can be assured upon completion of cancer treatment.

Keywords

oncofertility, oncology, infertility, reproductive health