The field of oncofertility, a fusion of oncology and reproductive medicine, addresses the fertility preservation needs of cancer patients. As survival rates for young cancer patients improve, the focus has shifted to ensuring quality of life post-treatment, including fertility preservation. The Oncofertility Consortium (OC), established in 2007 with NIH funding, has been pivotal in expanding this discipline globally.
Creating a Global Community
The OC's mission extends beyond the United States, fostering a worldwide network of shared resources and practices. This global community includes over 60 centers in the U.S. and 19 international centers focusing on pediatric patients. By connecting researchers and clinicians globally, the OC accelerates the pace of discovery and clinical application.
The Role of Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of oncofertility's success. The OC's global partnerships bring together diverse perspectives from various disciplines, enhancing research and patient care. These collaborations have resulted in significant advancements in fertility preservation techniques and increased awareness among healthcare providers.
Key Outcomes from Global Partnerships
- Australasia: Established a special interest group to bridge gaps between reproductive medicine and oncology.
- Brazil: Formed a national network to increase awareness and offer advanced fertility preservation options.
- Europe: The FertiPROTEKT network standardizes care across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
- Japan: Developed regional health care coordination systems for timely fertility preservation information.
- Portugal: Provides comprehensive fertility preservation services for both men and women.
- Korea: Established a national fertility preservation network with standardized protocols.
Opportunities for Practitioners
Practitioners can enhance their skills by engaging with this global community. Participation in international conferences, webinars, and collaborative research projects offers opportunities to stay updated on the latest advancements. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute their insights and experiences to further enrich the field.
Encouraging Further Research
The OC provides numerous resources for ongoing education and research. Practitioners are urged to explore these materials and consider conducting their own studies to address local needs. By doing so, they can contribute to the collective knowledge base and improve patient outcomes globally.
A Call to Action
The oncofertility field thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration. Practitioners are invited to join this global effort by sharing their expertise, participating in research initiatives, and advocating for patient-centered care. Together, we can continue to advance this vital area of medicine.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Creating a Global Community of Practice for Oncofertility.
