Writing to Heal for Chinese Immigrant Breast Cancer Survivors

Writing to Heal: A Culturally Based Brief Expressive Writing Intervention for Chinese Immigrant Breast Cancer Survivors

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11118662

This project explores how different types of expressive writing can help Chinese immigrant breast cancer survivors improve their well-being and quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11118662 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many Chinese immigrant breast cancer survivors face challenges finding mental health support that understands their culture, leading to lower quality of life. This project offers a brief writing program designed to help with emotional and thinking processes. Participants will be randomly assigned to write about neutral topics or to one of two specific writing styles: one based on Western methods of self-regulation, and another incorporating Asian ideas of self-cultivation. The goal is to see if these culturally sensitive writing exercises can make a positive difference in their lives.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are Chinese immigrant breast cancer survivors who are interested in participating in a writing program to improve their well-being.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Chinese immigrant breast cancer survivors or who are not interested in a writing-based approach may not receive direct benefit from this specific program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this writing program could offer a new, accessible way for Chinese immigrant breast cancer survivors to cope with their experiences and improve their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown benefits of expressive writing among Chinese immigrants, suggesting this approach has a foundation for success.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer
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.