SHIFT: A digital tool to help stem cell transplant survivors feel better sexually and emotionally
Official title: Title: Multi-Site Randomized Controlled Trial of a Novel Digital Application (SHIFT) to Improve Outcomes for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Survivors
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11370297 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new digital app called SHIFT will be tested to help hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors improve sexual health, quality of life, and psychological well-being.
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 | July 17, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,753,318 |
| NIH project number | 4R01CA295109-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11370297 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and experience sexual health concerns or related quality-of-life issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sexual health concerns or those who are not within the survivorship period may not benefit from SHIFT.
What this research studies
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors commonly face long-lasting sexual health problems that affect mood, relationships, and overall well-being. This multi-site study will test a self-administered digital app (SHIFT) designed with five modules to address the complex factors behind sexual dysfunction after transplant. Participants will use SHIFT to gain knowledge, strategies, and support, with outcomes measured across sexual function, quality of life, and psychological health. The goal is to provide an accessible, scalable tool that clinics can offer to improve survivorship care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, SHIFT could become a widely available digital resource that improves sexual health and overall well-being for HCT survivors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests digital, self-management tools can support sexual health and well-being, but this specific SHIFT app for HCT survivors is novel and directly targeted to this population.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: El-Jawahri, Areej — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: El-Jawahri, Areej
Related research
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SHIFT: A Digital App for Stem Cell Transplant Survivors
This project is testing a new digital app called SHIFT to help people who have had a stem cell transplant improve their sexual health, quality of life, and overall well-being.
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This study is testing a new app called SHIFT to help people who have had stem cell transplants improve their sexual health and overall well-being, making it easier for them to manage common issues like sexual dysfunction.
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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.