Couple-based communication training for advanced cancer patients and their partners
Couple Communication Skills Training for Advanced Cancer
This study tests whether a communication training program can help advanced cancer patients and their partners talk better about their concerns and improve their relationship.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 460 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Duke University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT04590885 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the Couple Communication Skills Training (CCST) intervention for 250 patients with advanced cancer and their spouses or intimate partners. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the CCST program or an attention control group receiving Healthy Living Information. The aim is to improve communication about cancer-related concerns, which may enhance psychological adjustment and relationship quality. The study addresses the challenges couples face in discussing cancer, aiming to foster emotional support and intimacy while reducing psychological distress.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include married or committed couples where one partner has a diagnosis of advanced cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to participate due to severe illness or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the psychological well-being and relationship quality of couples facing advanced cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes for couple-based interventions targeting communication in cancer care, suggesting this approach is promising.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Married or in a committed intimate relationship 2. Diagnosis of one the following advanced cancers: Stage IIIB or IV non-small cell lung cancer or extensive stage small cell lung cancer, Stage III pancreatic cancer or Stage IV GI cancer, Stage IV GU cancer, Stage IV breast cancer and GYN cancer Stage III-IV ovarian, IV uterine, IV cervical. 3. Both members of the couple must speak and read English. 4. Patient and/or partner scores \>=1.0 on the Holding Back screen. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Patient lacks capacity for interview (documented diagnosis of active psychosis or dementia) or is unable to provide informed consent as assessed by research staff. 2. Patient has a life expectancy \< 6 months as estimated by his/her treating oncologist. 3. Patient or partner is physically impaired in such a way that precludes the use of a computer or videoconferencing. 4. Patient or partner is too sick to participate, as judged by the oncologist or research staff.
Where this trial is running
Durham, North Carolina
- Duke University Medical Center — Durham, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laura Porter, PhD — Duke
- Study coordinator: Laura Porter, PhD
- Email: Laura.Porter@duke.edu
- Phone: 919-416-3436
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.