Abstract
Background:
The association of diagnostic intervals and outcomes is poorly understood in adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA). We investigated associations between diagnostic intervals and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety and depression in a large AYA cohort.
Methods:
Participants aged 13-24 completed interviews post-diagnosis, providing data on diagnostic experiences and the patient-reported outcomes (PROs) HRQoL, anxiety and depression. Demographic and cancer information were obtained from clinical and national records. Six diagnostic intervals were considered. Relationships between intervals and PROs were examined using regression models.
Results:
830 participants completed interviews. In adjusted models, across 28 of 30 associations, longer intervals were associated with poorer PROs. Patient intervals (symptom onset to first seeing a GP) of ≥1 month were associated with greater depression (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):17, 95% Confidence Interval (CI):11-25) compared to <1 month. ≥3 pre-referral GP consultations were associated with greater anxiety (aOR:16, CI:11-23) compared to 1-2 consultations. Symptom onset to first oncology appointment intervals of ≥2 months were associated with impaired HRQoL (aOR:18, CI:12-25) compared to <2 months.
Conclusions:
Prolonged diagnostic intervals in AYA are associated with an increased risk of impaired HRQoL, anxiety and depression. Identifying and delivering interventions for this high-risk group is a priority.