Exploring a new approach to help patients with brain tumors manage fear of cancer recurrence.
Official title: Investigating Feasibility and Acceptability of the FearLess Protocol for Patients with Primary Malignant Brain Tumors and Their Caregivers
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10795445 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a helpful program called the FearLess protocol, which aims to support patients with brain tumors and their caregivers in managing the fear of cancer coming back, using mindfulness and other techniques to improve their daily lives and treatment follow-through.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $288,889 |
| NIH project number | 1R34CA286879-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795445 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with primary malignant brain tumors and their caregivers who experience significant fear of cancer recurrence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-malignant brain tumors or those not experiencing fear of cancer recurrence may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the FearLess protocol, a psychological intervention designed to help patients with primary malignant brain tumors and their caregivers cope with the fear of cancer recurrence. The study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention, which incorporates mindfulness and cognitive-existential techniques. By addressing the unique psychological needs of both patients and caregivers, the research seeks to improve daily functioning and treatment adherence. Participants will be involved in discussions about recruitment methods and the suitability of the study population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide effective strategies for managing fear of cancer recurrence, improving the quality of life for patients and their caregivers.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach is novel in the context of neuro-oncology, similar psychological interventions have shown promise in other cancer populations.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Loughan, Ashlee Ruth — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Loughan, Ashlee Ruth
Related research
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A new, patient-friendly mental health program called FearLess aims to help people with primary malignant brain tumors and their caregivers cope with fear of cancer recurrence.
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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.