Improving communication for couples dealing with advanced GI cancer through text messages
Official title: Text-messaging Communication Micro-Intervention for Couples Coping with Advanced GI Cancer
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10999296 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is designed to help couples dealing with advanced gastrointestinal cancer improve their communication and strengthen their relationship through quick text messages that offer helpful tips and activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $75,208 |
| NIH project number | 5F32CA278417-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999296 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are couples where one partner is diagnosed with advanced gastrointestinal cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in a relationship or whose partner is not involved in their cancer care may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on helping couples cope with advanced gastrointestinal cancer by enhancing their communication skills through a text-messaging micro-intervention. The approach involves delivering brief educational materials and activities via mobile technology, making it easier for couples to engage without the time constraints of traditional interventions. By targeting communication challenges, the project aims to improve both individual psychological well-being and relationship satisfaction among couples facing cancer-related issues. The pilot test will assess the effectiveness of this innovative method in real-world settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication and psychological outcomes for couples coping with advanced GI cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with micro-interventions in promoting health behavior change and enhancing couple dynamics, indicating a promising approach for this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leo, Karena — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Leo, Karena
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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.