Transition Experiences of Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer to Adult Healthcare and Care: A Meta-synthesis of Qualitative Studies

Yanan Shi; Jia Li; Xinwei Wang; Tonglong Lu

doi:10.6911/WSRJ.202607_12(7).0005

Authors

Yanan Shi School of Nursing, Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
Jia Li School of Nursing, Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
Xinwei Wang School of Nursing, Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
Tonglong Lu Emergency Department, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6911/WSRJ.202607_12(7).0005

Keywords:

Adolescent; Young Adult; Childhood; Cancer; Meta-synthesis; Qualitative Studies.

Abstract

To synthesize qualitative data about the transition experiences of adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of childhood cancer (CCS) from pediatric to adult-oriented healthcare and nursing care. This synthesis provides an evidence base for clinicians to design tailored transition programs. Literature searches were conducted in multiple databases (CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL EBSCO, and Scopus) from the establishment to 26 September 2025. Study quality was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist for qualitative research. Findings were synthesized using meta-aggregation. Fifteen studies were included, and 55 discrete findings were extracted. These findings were categorized into nine themes and condensed into four overarching integrative findings: (1) Ambivalent attitudes, simultaneous reliance on pediatric services and anticipation of adult care; (2) Critical facilitators for a successful transition; (3) Challenges encountered during transition; and (4) Perceived benefits of transition. AYA CCS undergo a complicated, emotionally challenging transition marked by numerous obstacles. Medical practitioners should recognize these emotional responses, provide supportive services, and develop targeted interventions. Concurrently, healthcare institutions need to align pediatric and adult resources to ensure continuity of care and offer comprehensive family, psychological, and social support, thereby enabling CCS to transition successfully.

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