MO16-4 Development of a screening tool to determine support needs for Japanese adolescents and young adults with cancer

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer have various support needs. However, identifying them is a challenge, and screening tools are essential in this regard. The Distress Thermometer and Problem List (DTPL) of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is used clinically to screen for distress in AYA with cancer. The development of a screening tool based on needs specific to Japanese AYA with cancer is needed. The development process was conducted with the permission of the NCCN. First, the English version of the DTPL was back-translated and a prototype of the Japanese version (DTPL-J) was prepared. Next, 40 eligible patients filled in the DTPL-J and provided feedback during semi-structured interviews. Eligibility criteria were histologically confirmed malignancy, ability to complete the DTPL-J, and aged 15-39 years. Based on patient feedback, all DTPL-J questions and instructions that were not easily understood were amended so that they made sense to Japanese AYA with cancer. Finally, a screening tool for Japanese AYA with cancer was finalized after back-translation of the modified and added items. Five items, specifically appearance, getting around, substance use, insurance/financial decisions, and treatment decisions were modified as follows: appearance (how to look, the way that you look), daily activity, use of non-prescription medicines, money (medical expenses, living expenses, and insurance), and treatment options, respectively. Eleven items were added: information about the disease and treatment; advisors and suitable environments for discussions; important events and milestones; involvement with healthcare professionals, parents, extended family members, and others; inpatient life; psychological aspects of the family; anxiety; and frustration. A screening tool to determine support needs for Japanese AYA with cancer was developed. Future studies will quantitatively evaluate the tool's effectiveness.