CNS Cancers in AYAs
Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are patients diagnosed between the ages of 15-39. AYA patients represent approximately 10-15% of all patients diagnosed with central nervous system (CNS) cancers of the brain or spine.
If you or a loved one are an AYA and were diagnosed with brain cancer, you can learn more by clicking the button below.
Challenges in AYA Care
Lack of Data
There are fewer studies examining the biology of CNS cancers in AYA compared to other age groups.
Opportunity Drought
AYAs have less opportunities to enroll in clinical trials and access newer therapies.
A Unique Demographic
Given the many developmental, social, and biologic transitions through the AYA age range, patients often require additional support.
Our Current Network
As of fall of 2023 we have 89 providers at 28 institutions across 9 Canadian provinces. Two of our institutions, The Ottawa Hospital and BC Cancer, also provide care for residents of Baffin Island (Nunavut) and Yukon respectively. This map will continue to be updated as we grow our network.
CANON
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What does CANON mean to you?
A Proactive Initiative
CANON is the first-of-its-kind consortium specifically focusing on AYAs diagnosed with brain cancer in Canada.
A Platform for Equitable Access
Working together to improve and standardize care across Canada for this population.
A Bridge Among Disciplines
Our bi-weekly molecular tumour boards bring together specialists from neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, and neuropathology regularly.