Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Cancer

Find specialized cancer treatment for adolescent and young adults (AYA) at University Health. We have the only dedicated cancer program in South Texas for 15- to 39-year-olds. A multispecialty team of pediatric and adult oncologists and support staff works together to give your loved one complete care. 

AYA Cancer Facts

According to the National Cancer Institute, about 89,000 young people ages 15 to 39 are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States. This is about eight times the number of cancers diagnosed in children up to age 14.

Treating AYA Cancer

Research shows that young adults with certain cancers may have better outcomes if treated within a pediatric rather than adult cancer center. These cancers include brain tumors, leukemia, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. Learn more about AYA cancer treatments.

At University Health, we focus on improving the five-year survival of AYA cancer patients. 

Cancers We Treat in Young People

Teens and young adults receive advanced, complete care for cancers of the:

• Blood, such as leukemia, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Bone, such as osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma
• Brain
• Breast
• Reproductive systems, such as ovarian and testicular
• Skin, such as melanoma
• Soft tissue sarcoma
• Thyroid

One-of-a-Kind Cancer Care

Take part in the only AYA program of its kind in South Texas. We understand your care and treatment needs differ from younger children and adults over 40. By focusing on your needs, we provide superior, personalized medical treatment.

You’re Part of Your Cancer Care Team

You are the most important part of your cancer care team. Your cancer experience is different from other patients. We want to provide care that is right for you. We'll work with you in ways that are most helpful to you and put your preferences and needs first.

AYA Cancer Experts

Feel confident you are getting high-quality cancer care at University Health. The board-certified UT Health San Antonio cancer doctors providing your care are well-known experts. They bring extraordinary cancer knowledge and broad treatment experience to your care and treatment.

Our AYA cancer program earned the Beacon Gold Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses in 2024, demonstrating our commitment to this special patient population.

Multispecialty Team Approach

Many specialists collaborate on your care, discuss your treatment options and tailor your treatment for the best possible outcome. We work closely with you to make sure you clearly understand all aspects of your treatment plan.

Dedicated Support

Turn to your AYA cancer care team for supportive care and services that help you adjust to your diagnosis and manage cancer treatment. You’ll have access to all of our specialized care, including fertility preservation, to address short-term and long-term side effects of cancer treatment.

Access to AYA Clinical Trials & Research

You may qualify in the latest AYA clinical trials through our academic medical center. Clinical trials allow you to access new treatments and potentially lifesaving therapies. Our AYA cancer doctors are part of a select network that coordinates and supports clinical trials across the United States and Canada. Your doctor considers your options based on your age and diagnosis.

Research studies can provide hope and improve your quality of life. You may even experience a better outcome than patients who do not participate in clinical trials.

Other Teen & Young Adult Health Services

Learn more about specialized teen and young adult health care services at University Health.