This is the second edition of the only book to be devoted exclusively to the total cancer
picture in adolescents and young adults (AYA) now expanded from the age range 15-29 to that of
15¿39 years. For each of the diverse spectrum of cancers encountered in the AYA group the
epidemiology natural progression diagnostic approaches and treatment options are described
with special emphasis on strategies for early detection and prevention. Comparison is made with
management of both younger and older patients and model programs are presented that address
common diagnostic staging treatment and psychosocial shortcomings in the AYA group. Detailed
attention is also paid to principles and practices of care with consideration of psychosocial
and quality of life issues social support systems rehabilitation late effects insurance
and economic aspects of health care among other topics. The authors make compelling arguments
for integrated strategies that allow young adults to benefit from the combined expertise of
pediatric and adult oncologists in systems that identify both the complex disease and the
social issues specific to this population. The proposed models of care include relationships
with other specialties that do not specifically target this age group i.e. infectious disease
endocrinology pulmonary medicine nephrology gastroenterology thoracic and abdominal surgery
urology otolaryngology and neurosurgery. New patterns of communication are advocated and
endorsed as essential for productive interaction involving these specialties. References are
extensive and are oriented toward users in pediatric hematology-oncologymedical oncology
radiation oncology surgical oncology gynecologic oncology oncology nursing psycho-oncology
social work epidemiology public health and health services research. The contributing authors
are from the United States the United Kingdom Canada Italy France Israel Switzerland and
Australia Germany Japan and the Netherlands.p>
