Opportunities and challenges of establishing a nationwide strategy for adolescents and young adults in Canada with cancer: impressions from the Toronto workshop.

Abstract

Currently, there is priority to address the complex needs of the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer population. At a workshop in Toronto, the Canadian healthcare community brought together a broad range of stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges of developing a nationwide strategy for AYA cancer patients. Summarized here is an overview of the workshop objectives and considerations coming from the conference participants relative to opportunities, challenges, and future directions. It is concluded that the Canadian healthcare and advocacy communities are well-positioned to have a major impact and assume a leadership role in AYA cancer care.