Young Adult Colorectal Cancer Clinic
Who we serve
At Sunnybrook, we bring together a team of experts in the Young Adult Colorectal Cancer Clinic.
Colorectal cancer has historically affected older adults, with 90 per cent of patients being over the age of 50. Several recent studies in Canada and the United States have found increases in the number of patients being diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of 50.
Young adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer have unique issues due to both the cancer and cancer treatment.
In the news:
Colon cancer at 41: Bryna's story
- Your Health Matters, March 2022
Colorectal cancer rates increasing among younger patients: study
- CTV News, May 2019
Young adults not immune to colon cancer, shouldn’t ignore signs based on age: experts
- Globe & Mail, September 2018
'Rapid increase' in colorectal cancers among young Canadians, study finds
- CTV News, May 2016
How we support you
People under age 50 may have unique challenges and concerns related to a colorectal cancer diagnoses. These may include:
- Relationships with family and friends
- Fertility concerns and issues
- Young children at home
- Dating/intimacy issues
- Challenges at work
- Concerns about hereditary cancer
- Psychological stress due to any or all of the above
Our multidisciplinary team – made up of oncologists, social workers, psychologists, geneticists, and a nurse navigator – will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to support you through your cancer journey.
How this works
Your family doctor or specialist can refer you to Sunnybrook via this e-referral form. The referral will go through Colorectal Cancer Diagnostic Assessment Program, where our team will triage your referral and notify the Young Adult Colorectal Cancer Clinic if you are under age 50.
Our clinic physician and nurse navigator will review your medical and personal history to identify your needs, and work with you to create your individualized plan. When you come to Sunnybrook, you may meet with various members of the team to address your concerns (such as a social worker, sexual health expert, fertility expert, geneticist, or drug reimbursement specialist in addition to the medical, radiation and/or surgical oncologist.)
