Improving online support for breast cancer survivors dealing with sexual health issues
Official title: Optimizing psychosocial intervention for breast cancer-related sexual morbidity: A factorial trial using the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) network
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11003766 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to improve online support programs for women who have finished breast cancer treatment and are dealing with sexual health challenges, by testing different helpful tools like education and communication skills to make the program more effective and easier to use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $597,222 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA269776-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003766 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who have completed primary treatment for breast cancer and are experiencing sexual distress or dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not breast cancer survivors or those who do not report any sexual morbidity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the effectiveness of online interventions designed to help breast cancer survivors who experience sexual distress and dysfunction. By utilizing a framework called Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST), the study will test various components of an Internet-based program, including psychoeducation, communication training with clinicians and partners, and physical intimacy enhancement. The goal is to create a more efficient intervention that minimizes participant burden while maximizing engagement and impact. The study will involve 320 women who have completed their primary breast cancer treatment and report issues related to sexual health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide breast cancer survivors with effective tools to improve their sexual health and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using online interventions for sexual health issues among cancer survivors, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaffer, Kelly Mclean — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Shaffer, Kelly Mclean
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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.