The NCCP Children Adolescent and Young Adult (CAYA) Cancer Programme

• The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) “A Framework for the care and Support of Adolescent and Young Adults (AYA) with cancer in Ireland 2021 to 2026 (PDF)” was launched in May 2022.
• The framework sets out the vision and strategic aspirations for the care and support of AYAs aged 16-24 years old, with cancer, in Ireland.
• The aim is to achieve accessible and equitable access to AYA cancer care across Ireland
• Developmentally appropriate cancer care for all AYAs diagnosed with cancer
• This will lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

Highlight of achievements to date

A dedicated AYA Cancer Service Network (AYACSN) made up of four designated cancer centres has been designed. These hospitals are

• Children’s Health Ireland Crumlin,
• St James’s University Hospital, Dublin,
• Cork University Hospital, Cork
• University Hospital Galway, Galway

 AYA Cancer Unit Clinical Leads have been appointed in all three AYA Cancer Units.

Launch of the following NCCP CAYA Reports:

• Framework for the Care and Support of Adolescents and Young Adults(AYA) with Cancer in Ireland 2021 to 2026
• NCCP CAYA Annual Report 2021
• NCCP CAYA Annual Report 2022

Launch of the Model of Care for Psycho-Oncology Services

NCCP have successfully obtained funding via the HSE National Service Plan for CAYA positions nationwide.

Celebrating the 100th National Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer MDM – A Milestone in Youth-Centred Cancer Care

The Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer network includes CHI Crumlin, St James Hospital, Dublin, University Hospital Galway and Cork University Hospital as the four designated AYA sites. On the 22nd October, the National Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Multidisciplinary Meeting (MDM) will mark its 100th meeting– a significant milestone in advancing age-appropriate, holistic cancer care for young people across Ireland.

Launched as a pilot in 2023, the AYA Cancer MDM has grown into a vital national forum, with over 260 young people discussed to date. This meeting is specifically designed to support young cancer patients navigating the complex transition between paediatric and adult oncology services.

Held in addition to local site-specific meetings, the AYA MDM focuses on youth-specific, developmentally appropriate care. It brings together expert clinicians from both paediatric and adult specialties to collaboratively explore the most appropriate therapeutic options for each patient.

Importantly, the AYA MDM addresses the broader needs of young people affected by cancer, including:

• Psychosocial support
• Fertility preservation
• Education and career development
• Body image, sexuality and relationships
• Alcohol and substance use
• Access to clinical trials

This 100th meeting not only reflects the growing recognition of the unique needs of AYA patients, but also celebrates the dedication of all involved in providing compassionate, age-sensitive, and comprehensive cancer care.