| Abstract | The adolescent and young adult cancer population is uniquely difficult to recruit for research studies, leading to a lack of information and clinical trial participation. The purpose of this integrative review was to identify specific limitations to and successful strategies for recruiting this population. These strategies could be implemented in an ongoing study on the effects of physical activity in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and help general recruiting efforts in the future. Various databases were searched and reviewed for applicable evidence and current research on the topic of adolescent and young adult recruitment. Barriers identified include the population's developmental stage and their increased mobility lending to the lack of commitment. Successful strategies for recruitment include face-to-face contact by healthcare providers, social media outreach, successful first contact, and continued additional contact. While multiple barriers to recruitment and successful recruitment strategies were identified, ultimately more research is needed on the subject. The data collected creates a solid base for continued research in this population. The findings in this review are satisfactory to create a plan of action for recruiting the adolescent and young adult cancer population in the current ongoing study on physical activity. A multifaceted approach initiated by the patients' healthcare providers combined with social media outreach and frequent contact will be most effective for this population, based on integrated review findings. |
