Improving cancer care by training doctors to address sexual health issues.

Addressing the Training Gap in Oncology on Sexual Health: Development of the Sexual Health Integrative Fellowship Training (SHIFT) Course for Hematology-Oncology Fellows

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RESEARCH INST OF FOX CHASE CAN CTR · NIH-11064790

This study is creating a training program for doctors who specialize in treating cancer, so they can better help patients with sexual health concerns, making sure that survivors feel supported in all aspects of their health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRESEARCH INST OF FOX CHASE CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11064790 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a training course for hematology-oncology fellows to better address sexual health concerns in cancer patients. Many cancer survivors experience distress related to sexual health, yet oncologists often lack the necessary training to discuss these issues effectively. The Sexual Health Integrative Fellowship Training (SHIFT) course aims to fill this gap by providing education and resources to future oncologists, ensuring they can support their patients' sexual health needs as part of comprehensive cancer care. By integrating this training into fellowship programs, the research seeks to enhance the overall quality of care for cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who have experienced sexual health concerns related to their diagnosis or treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or who do not have concerns related to sexual health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication and care regarding sexual health for cancer patients, enhancing their overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that training healthcare providers on sensitive topics like sexual health can significantly improve patient outcomes, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: advanced disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.