Fertility Preservation Among Female Cancer Patients
Summary
Advances in cancer treatment have significantly improved survival rates among young female cancer patients. However, many cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can cause irreversible damage to the ovaries, leading to infertility. Fertility preservation offers these patients the possibility of having biological children in the future, yet access to and utilization of these options remain limited.
This project investigates the traits and outcomes of fertility preservation among Norwegian cancer patients, focusing on ovarian tissue, oocyte, and embryo cryopreservation. By comparing fertility preservation patients with those undergoing standard infertility treatments and those who decline preservation, we aim to assess the effectiveness and accessibility of these techniques. Additionally, the study will explore patient and parental experiences, identifying barriers to fertility preservation and areas for improvement in clinical care.
Beyond clinical outcomes, the project evaluates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in fertility preservation decision-making. An AI-powered knowledge base will be tested for its ability to assist healthcare providers in evaluating fertility preservation cases. Furthermore, the effectiveness of two digital decision aids—a video-based tool and a chatbot interface—will be compared in a randomized trial to determine which method best supports patient understanding and satisfaction.
Objectives & Study Design
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Fertility Outcomes & Access – Assessing whether fertility preservation patients have comparable outcomes to those undergoing standard infertility treatments and identifying potential disparities in access based on geography or other factors.
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Patient Experience & Decision Support – Developing and testing digital decision aids (video and chatbot) to enhance patient education and support informed decision-making.
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Cost-Effectiveness & Healthcare Utilization – Analyzing the economic impact of fertility preservation on the Norwegian healthcare system, evaluating direct and indirect costs.
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This project aims to fill a critical knowledge gap in fertility preservation, providing valuable insights to inform clinical guidelines and improve patient care.