Understanding social connections in young brain cancer survivors
Social Connectedness in Pediatric Brain Cancer Survivors
This study looks at how having friends and social support affects the health and happiness of kids who have survived brain cancer, and it aims to find out what makes it hard for them to connect with others, so we can help improve their social lives and well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10750950 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how social connectedness affects the health-related quality of life and psychological well-being of survivors of pediatric brain cancer. It aims to identify the factors that contribute to difficulties in forming social connections, such as age at diagnosis and treatment-related challenges. By comparing survivors of malignant and non-malignant brain tumors, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that impact social behavior and overall health. The findings could inform the development of targeted interventions to improve social connectedness among these survivors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who have survived pediatric brain cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with brain cancer or are over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that enhance social connections and overall quality of life for pediatric brain cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing social connectedness can significantly improve psychological outcomes in cancer survivors, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hocking, Matthew C. — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Hocking, Matthew C.
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 below.