Understanding the cognitive effects of breast cancer and its treatment in older survivors

Living beyond cancer: the short- and long-term cognitive effects of breast cancer and its treatment for cancer survivors

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10978227

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 typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10978227 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors aged 65 and older who have undergone treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.