Distribution and outcomes of solid organ cancers in adolescents and young adults: experience from a tertiary cancer centre in South India

Abstract

Introduction: Although breakthroughs in therapy, there has been an epidemiological shift in solid organ malignancies among adolescents and young adults (AYAs). Also, fewer studies in India that have evaluated the outcomes of solid tumours in AYAs. So, this study investigated cancer trends as well as the outcomes of solid tumours in AYAs.

Materials & methods: This retrospective analysis encompasses all individuals diagnosed with non-haematological malignancies aged 10 to 39 years. Demographic parameters, disease and therapy-related details, the applicability of genetic testing, and completion of planned therapy were all documented and analysed. Patient and tumour characteristics were summarised using descriptive statistics, while survival analysis was depicted by Kaplan-Meier curves.

Results: During the study period, 100 patients aged 10 to 39 years were diagnosed with non-haematological malignancies. There was a 61% female population, and the most common decade distribution was 31-39 years (84%). The three most common malignancies were breast (32%), gastrointestinal (20%), and head and neck (19%). In general, 82 patients were treated with curative intent, and 73% were adherent and completed the prescribed therapy. The median duration of follow-up was 18 months, with a median overall survival of 20 months. 96% of patients survived two years after treatment.

Conclusion: This study found breast, colorectal and head and neck cancers to be most frequent in the AYA population. A subgroup of these people benefits, with many long-term effects lasting more than two years, and this could influence the choice of novel therapy options.