How cancer affects thinking skills in older adults
Official title: Impact of Cancer on Cognitive Trajectories in Older Adults
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11067769 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cancer and its treatments affect thinking and memory in older adults aged 65 and up, to better understand why some people may struggle with these issues as they go through their cancer journey.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $444,981 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA279316-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067769 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have been diagnosed with cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without a cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cancer and its treatments on cognitive abilities in older adults aged 65 and above. It aims to understand how cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) develops and progresses over time, particularly in this age group, who may be more vulnerable to such effects. By analyzing data from a large trial involving older individuals, the study will assess various cognitive functions, including memory and executive function, over several years. This comprehensive approach seeks to identify risk factors and biological mechanisms that contribute to cognitive decline associated with cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive impairment in older cancer patients, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated significant cognitive impairment in cancer patients, suggesting that this study's focus on older adults and long-term follow-up is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warner, Erica T — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Warner, Erica T
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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.