Results of a survey on the treatment of adolescents and young adult (AYA) sarcoma patients in Spain at present time

ABSTRACT

Introduction We aimed to analyse health care services for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with sarcomas in Spain. Methods A survey was sent to all Spanish cancer centres, including questions about demographic, facilities, and treatment strategies for AYAs with sarcomas in the last 2 years. Results Thirty-five units participated in the survey, 17 paediatric and 15 adult units. There were three specialized AYA units. First line regimen varied depending on whether the treating unit was paediatric or not, for osteosarcomas, rhabdomyosarcomas, and non-rhabdomyosarcomas. By contrast, 91.4% of Ewing sarcomas were treated according to EE2012. In the relapse setting, differences between units were higher in all tumours. Additionally, 48% of the units reported not having trials for this population. Conclusion There are major differences in the treatment of AYAs with sarcomas between adult and paediatric units. Enormous efforts are needed to homogenize treatments and increase the access to innovation. (AU)