The CKN Oncofertility Referral Network and Database
In 2014, Cancer Knowledge Network (CKN) launched the first Canadian Oncofertility Referral Network which assists oncologists in locating fertility clinics, facilitates online referrals and houses an online library of fertility resources for both physicians and patients. In late 2015, CKN, together with the Fertility Preservation Special Interest Group (FPSIG) of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS), launched a database project which tracks all patients who are referred for oncofertility consultations across Canada. Objectives of the Database System: · Bring together two medical communities: Oncology (through CKN) and Fertility (through CFAS). · Track oncofertility referrals across Canada to determine who is making referrals (medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, gynecologic oncology, family medicine etc.). · Monitor patient decision-making regarding the use of available technology to preserve fertility before cancer treatment begins (freezing eggs, sperm, embryos, ovarian or testicular tissue, or decline and do nothing). How the Database Works: Every clinic in Canada has been asked to participate in this project by accessing a clinic-specific secure URL and answering four short questions every time they get an oncofertility referral. The four questions are basic: age, sex, type of cancer, and who made the referral. Four weeks after the referral is entered, the clinic will get a follow-up email to determine what the patient decided to do. The information provided will be housed on the CKN secure website. The database will not include any information that identifies the patient. Current Stats: There have been over 520 entries during the initial 12 months of operation. These data will have a lasting impact on Oncofertility at national and international levels by supporting research and improving care for AYA with cancer. We welcome feedback and/or collaboration initiatives from our global partners. Please contact Karen Irwin.Recent Publications from our Canadian Partners:
Oncofertility in Canada: an overview of Canadian practice and suggested action plan
Oncofertility in Canada: the impact of cancer on fertility
Oncofertility in Canada: gonadal protection and fertility-sparing strategies
Oncofertility in Canada: cryopreservation and alternative options for future parenthood
Target Age Group: Adult
Target Sex: Not sex-specific
Language: English
Target Sex: Not sex-specific
Language: English