The German Foundation for Young Adults with Cancer supports young people aged 18 to 39 affected by cancer. We also serve as a point of contact for families, healthcare professionals, researchers, supporters and the wider public.
Every year in Germany, around 16,500 young adults are diagnosed with cancer. For each, the diagnosis is a major turning point, affecting education, careers, family plans and future perspectives. Young adults face unique challenges, including fertility and family planning, educational or career interruptions, and social or economic difficulties. We don’t want anyone to face this alone.
What We Do
We develop practical, needs-based programmes in close collaboration with young adults affected, medical specialists and interdisciplinary experts. Our work includes:
- Projects designed with and for young adults affected by cancer such as First Aid, Meeting Points and the Young Cancer Portal (more HERE)
- Promotion of research through yearly scholarships
- Promotion of other projects that improve care and support for young people with cancer through awarding the Mathias-Freund-Prize (more on our German page)
- Building networks across medicine, psychology and related disciplines to share knowledge and best practices
- Continuous advocacy, engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to improve healthcare structures, awareness and long-term outcomes
Our mission is to ensure that no young adult faces cancer alone, providing guidance, connection, support and advocacy every step of the way.
Founded in July 2014 by the German Society for Haematology and Medical Oncology e.V. (DGHO), the Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation funded primarily through donations.