Improving symptom management for advanced cancer patients in rural areas using telemedicine
Official title: Randomized clinical trial of a telemedicine-mHealth symptom cluster intervention for advanced cancer patients: Increasing access in underserved rural communities
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10938752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping people with advanced cancer who are feeling anxious, depressed, or tired, especially those living in rural areas, by using a convenient online program called FOCUS that teaches them easy ways to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $656,014 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA281885-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938752 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced cancer who reside in rural areas and experience significant psychological and physical symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cancer or those who do not experience distressing symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on helping patients with advanced cancer who experience distressing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and fatigue, particularly in underserved rural communities. It utilizes a telemedicine approach combined with a mobile health (mHealth) intervention called FOCUS, which teaches patients effective strategies to manage their symptoms through a brief, integrated cognitive-behavioral and acceptance therapy program. The intervention is designed to be accessible and less time-consuming than traditional therapies, aiming to enhance the quality of life for these patients. Participants will engage in a four-module program that addresses their specific needs and helps them cope with their symptoms while maintaining a meaningful life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for advanced cancer patients by providing effective symptom management strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar biobehavioral interventions for managing symptoms in cancer patients, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wells-Di Gregorio, Sharla Maelyn — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Wells-Di Gregorio, Sharla Maelyn
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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.