Understanding the cognitive effects of breast cancer and its treatment in older survivors
Official title: Living beyond cancer: the short- and long-term cognitive effects of breast cancer and its treatment for cancer survivors
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10978227 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breast cancer and its treatments might affect the thinking and memory skills of survivors who are 65 and older, to better understand the challenges they face and find ways to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $130,950 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AG080030-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978227 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors aged 65 and older who have undergone treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how breast cancer and its treatments impact the cognitive abilities of survivors aged 65 and older. It aims to explore both short-term and long-term cognitive effects, considering factors like chemotherapy and radiation. By analyzing genetic links between breast cancer and conditions like Alzheimer's disease, the study seeks to provide insights into the cognitive challenges faced by older cancer survivors. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate their cognitive function over time, helping to identify patterns and potential interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved quality of life and tailored care strategies for older breast cancer survivors experiencing cognitive challenges.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown varying cognitive outcomes in cancer survivors, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and necessary for understanding long-term effects.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peng, Cheng — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Peng, Cheng
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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.