Influencing factors of fertility concerns in cancer patients of childbearing age: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Summary - MDSpire

Influencing factors of fertility concerns in cancer patients of childbearing age: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • By

  • Yaxin Wang

  • Renmei Yang

  • Zhaoli Zhang

  • May 18, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To systematically analyze factors influencing fertility concerns among cancer patients to inform clinical practice, particularly regarding early intervention strategies.

Key Findings:
  • Depression (OR = 1.30, 95%CI = 1.14-1.49) is associated with increased fertility concerns.
  • Higher education level (OR = 1.74, 95%CI = 1.11-2.73) correlates with greater fertility anxiety.
  • Fertility intentions (OR = 5.96, 95%CI = 1.35-26.31) significantly elevate concerns.
  • Having more than one child (OR = 0.32, 95%CI = 0.23-0.41) reduces anxiety.
  • Being married (OR = 0.44, 95%CI = 0.26-0.75) is linked to lower fertility concerns.
  • Full-time employment (OR = 1.41, 95%CI = 1.03-1.93) is associated with increased anxiety.
  • Endocrine therapy (OR = 1.31, 95%CI = 1.07-1.62) and reproductive counseling (OR = 1.21, 95%CI=1.01-1.45) are significant factors.
Interpretation:

Endocrine therapy and prior fertility counseling are significantly associated with elevated fertility concerns, indicating a complex interplay between medical interventions and psychological distress, with implications for clinical practice.

Limitations:
  • Variations in sample sizes and regional focus may affect generalizability, potentially limiting the applicability of findings.
  • Limited research on fertility concerns in China indicates a need for more targeted studies to address this gap.
Conclusion:

This study highlights the importance of addressing fertility concerns in cancer patients, emphasizing the need for early discussions about infertility risks and preservation options to improve patient outcomes.

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