The Adolescent Young Adult (AYA) Oncology Program

The adolescent young adult (AYA) oncology program is exclusively dedicated to supporting adolescents and young adults, ages 13 and up. Integrating the resources of Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital and Smilow Cancer Hospital, patients receive coordinated care, including fertility counseling, education, insurance, and social and emotional support. Our goal is to improve quality of life and outcomes for AYAs affected by cancer through exceptional programming and educational services, forging social connections with other AYAs, providing access to age-appropriate clinical trials, and promoting awareness of AYA cancer in the hospital and in the broader community. 

Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital’s care team works with patients and their families to design a treatment plan based on the individual’s needs. In addition to an oncologist, our multidisciplinary team includes advanced practice providers, registered nurses, social workers, a psychologist, psychiatrist, neuropsychologist, nutritionist and child life specialists, all who have expertise in the medical, social, emotional and educational needs of adolescents and young adults. Our specialized program provides resources and support to give AYAs and their families the tools to thrive during a difficult time.


Teen Center at YNHCH
Lauren Telesz/Smilow Teen Center 

Lauren Telesz, a Yale University student, successfully battled Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma at YNHCH while in high school. Intensive treatment and support from her care team and loved ones helped her beat cancer, but she saw a need for services targeted to people her age. The center serves teens and young adults, offering them a place to socialize with one another, friends and family. It also includes video games, tablets and a big screen for movies. The center supports the services of YNHCH’s Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Oncology Program, which provides specialized treatment and services for youths 13 and older.