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Inova Schar Cancer Institute
A young female adult

Young. Strong. Unstoppable.
 Tailored youth cancer care

The Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Oncology Program at Inova Schar Cancer is dedicated to supporting patients ages 15 to 39, addressing their unique medical and psychosocial needs throughout their cancer journey. Our multidisciplinary team combines cutting-edge science, compassionate care and tailored support to improve outcomes and quality of life for young people facing cancer challenges.

AYA needs are different

Adolescents and young adults facing cancer encounter challenges that differ from those faced by younger children or older adults, including:

  • Underrepresentation in clinical trials, which may slow advancements in treatment and survivorship
  • Financial, psychological and social stresses, such as delays in diagnosis, disruptions to education or work, and impacts on fertility and relationships
  • Unique emotional needs including feeling isolated from peers and worrying about the future

AYA matters because these distinct needs require a specialized, holistic approach to care that addresses both medical and psychosocial well-being.

Providing strength through every stage

The AYA program is designed to: 

  • Provide rapid access to a patient navigator and a multidisciplinary support team from diagnosis through survivorship
  • Offer psychosocial supports at key moments including counseling, fertility services, care coordination and symptom management
  • Ensure access to state-of-the-art treatment options, including opportunities to participate in clinical trials
  • Track quality and patient outcomes for ongoing improvement in our services
  • Foster collaboration among pediatric, adolescent and adult, and geriatric oncology specialists – all under one roof at Inova Schar Cancer.

AYA patients benefit from a coordinated care team, which may include: 

  • Specialists in pediatric, medical, radiation, surgical, orthopedic, gynecology and other oncology specialties
  • Support from social work, psychiatry, psychology, child life therapy, art therapy, nutrition, chaplaincy, nursing, pharmacy, research assistants and more
  • Access to fertility and genetic counseling, palliative care and survivorship clinics 

A personal patient navigator guides each individual through available resources, making it easier to engage in clinical trials, counseling, education and supportive care.

  • Holistic care: We care for your physical, emotional, financial and social needs
  • Inclusive support: Everyone is welcome, regardless of gender, identity or background
  • Collaboration: We partners with Pediatric Specialists of Virginia (PSV), Life with Cancer (LWC) and community stakeholders to provide comprehensive support
  • Continuous improvement: Our committees focus on research, fertility, psychosocial support, palliative care, survivorship, technology, education and patient advocacy
  • Patient voice: We involve patients in shaping our program through advisory boards and feedback tools

Impact and outcomes

At Inova Schar Cancer, we serve 500+ AYA patients annually, aiming to improve survival, treatment, and wellbeing. By bridging psychosocial support and science, we set new standards in AYA care.

For patients ages 15 to 39 receiving care at Inova, ask your care team how the AYA Program can support your journey – and explore our additional resources.

Contact us

Inova Schar Cancer 
8081 Innovation Park Drive
Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: 571-472-4724