Adapting the FOCUS Program for LGBTQ+ Cancer Patients and Caregivers

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This two-arm pilot study will enroll 80 SGM cancer patients and at least 80 informal caregivers (total N ≥ 160) across two sites. Participants will be randomized to receive the adapted FOCUS On Us program or a waitlist control. The study aims to assess feasibility and acceptability while exploring potential health and well‑being outcomes for both patients and caregivers. Eligibility includes adults with invasive cancer within the past 24 months, SGM identification (patient or caregiver), English proficiency, and willingness to participate with an unpaid caregiver, with US residency. The investigation is led by Charles Kamen, with Wayne State University and the NCI as collaborators, at Wayne State University and University of Rochester.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Patients must:

1. have been diagnosed or had a biochemical recurrence or progression of any invasive (e.g., Stage ≥1) cancer within the past 24 months;
2. have at least one informal (unpaid) caregiver willing to participate in the program;
3. identify as a sexual and/or gender minority (SGM) OR have a caregiver who identifies as SGM (e.g., either the patient or caregiver(s) must be SGM);
4. be age 18 or older;
5. be able to complete all written and oral components of the study in English;
6. provide informed consent;
7. live in the United States.

Caregivers must:

1. self-report having provided support for a cancer patient as an informal (unpaid) caregiver;
2. have a cancer patient for whom they provided support willing to participate in the program;
3. identify as a sexual and/or gender minority (SGM) OR have provided support to a patient who identifies as SGM (e.g., either the patient or caregiver(s) must be SGM);
4. be age 18 or older;
5. be able to complete all written and oral components of the study in English;
6. provide informed consent;
7. live in the United States

Where it's running

• Wayne State University
  Detroit, Michigan, United States Recruiting
• University Of Rochester
  Rochester, New York, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Lelaina Senior Clinical Research Specialist
• Email: Lelaina_nagle@urmc.rochester.edu
• Phone: 607-542-9215

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.