Overcoming fear of cancer recurrence in young adult survivors: a resource-based approach centred on healthcare professionals - a protocol for systematic reviews and thematic synthesis.

INTRODUCTION

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most prevalent psychological concerns among young adult cancer survivors. Despite its clinical relevance, little is known about how survivors overcome this fear and the role of healthcare professionals in that process. This protocol outlines a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis to explore the coping mechanisms and support resources that facilitate overcoming FCR in young adult cancer survivors.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols guidelines. A comprehensive search will be conducted across five databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Social Sciences Citation Index) and supplemented by hand-searching. Methodological quality will be assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data synthesis will follow Thomas and Harden's thematic synthesis approach, guided by the post-traumatic growth theory. The review aims to identify key support systems and professional interventions that aid in coping with FCR, emphasising the unique developmental and psychosocial context of young adulthood. The final synthesis will inform targeted, resource-based interventions by healthcare providers.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

As this study is a retrospective review involving secondary analysis of publicly available primary data, ethical approval is not required. The findings of this review will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scholarly conferences and other relevant professional forums. This protocol has been registered with PROSPERO.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD420251029414.