A tool to help young cancer patients manage their symptoms
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial Using a Heuristic Tool To Improve Symptom Self-Management in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer
Run by Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT05958316 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new computer tool to help young cancer patients better manage their symptoms during treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 15 Years to 29 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 126 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Virginia Commonwealth University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, immunotherapy |
| Locations | 5 sites (Kansas City, Missouri and 4 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 4, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 26, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05958316 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults who have recently been diagnosed with cancer and are currently undergoing treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unable to complete study measures due to cognitive or physical limitations may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the Computerized Symptom Assessment Tool (C-SCAT) in improving symptom self-management among adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer. Participants will be randomly assigned to either receive the C-SCAT intervention or usual care while undergoing cancer treatment. The study aims to assess changes in self-efficacy and self-management behaviors related to cancer symptoms over the course of treatment. A total of 126 participants will be involved, all within the first three months of their cancer diagnosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this tool could empower young cancer patients to better manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life during treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using technology for symptom management in cancer patients, indicating potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Has received at least 1 cycle of cancer treatment and is within 6 months of receiving that first cycle of treatment * Receiving regularly scheduled cancer treatment and will be receiving at least three more cycles * Reports at least 1 symptom related to cancer and/or its treatment * Able to speak, read, and write English as required for completion of the C-SCAT and study measures Exclusion Criteria: \- Cognitive and/or physical inability to complete study measures.
Where it's running
-
Children's Mercy Hospital
Kansas City, Missouri, United States Recruiting -
University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI)
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting -
University of Utah Primary Children's Hospital
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting -
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States Recruiting -
Seattle Children's Hospital @ University of Washington
Seattle, Washington, United States Active not recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ronald Elswick, PhD — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Grace Hodges
- Email: hodgesg@vcu.edu
- Phone: 804-828-8917
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.