A partnered exercise program to support couples during cancer treatment
Official title: A dyadic exercise approach to prevent declines in physical and mental health in couples during radiation treatment for cancer: a hybrid type I efficacy-implementation trial
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10873813 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special exercise program for couples where one partner is receiving radiation treatment for cancer, aiming to help both partners feel better physically and mentally by working out together and supporting each other during this challenging time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $525,495 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA277738-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873813 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are couples where one partner is newly diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer and undergoing radiation treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in a relationship or whose partner is not involved in their care may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a unique exercise program designed for couples where one partner is undergoing radiation treatment for cancer. It focuses on improving both physical and mental health outcomes for cancer survivors and their spouses by encouraging them to exercise together. The program is based on the idea that couples' health is interconnected, and by participating in partnered exercise, both partners can benefit from enhanced support and teamwork. The trial aims to implement this program early in the treatment process to maximize its effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the physical and mental well-being of both cancer patients and their partners during a challenging time.
How similar studies have gone: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results for partnered exercise programs in improving health outcomes for cancer survivors and their spouses.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winters-Stone, Kerri M — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Winters-Stone, Kerri M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
-
Adolescent girls in Uganda: a long-term look at how money empowerment and family support affect HIV prevention, care, and mental health
A long-term study in rural Uganda will test whether an intervention that combines economic empowerment and family strengthening can help HIV-negative and HIV-affected adolescent girls move safely into young adulthood.
-
Long-term HIV prevention and mental health support for adolescent girls and young women in Uganda
A long-term program in rural Uganda tests if combining economic support and family strengthening helps teenage girls stay HIV-free and improve mental health as they grow into young adults.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Maternal mental health help to protect kids’ breathing health
A mother-focused mental health program is tested to see if improving moms’ mood can also support better breathing and fewer asthma symptoms in children.
-
SNEngage: How Social Networks and Supports Shape Mental Health Care for Black and Latino Individuals with Serious Mental Illness
A long-term study following Black and Latino individuals with serious mental illness to learn how their social networks affect engagement with mental health services and overall well-being.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.