Culturally tailored yoga program for cancer patients undergoing stem cell transplantation

Cultural Tailoring and Pilot Testing of an Inpatient Yoga Therapy Program for Cancer Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in India, Tanzania, and the United States

Not applicable Interventional M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT05681026

This study is testing a special yoga program designed for cancer patients getting stem cell transplants to see if it helps them feel better and supports their cultural needs.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Houston, Texas and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05681026 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop and assess a culturally sensitive yoga therapy program specifically designed for patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in India, Tanzania, and the United States. The program will be informed by semi-structured interviews with patients to understand cultural norms and preferences related to yoga and psychosocial support. Participants will engage in yoga sessions two weeks prior to their transplant and continue for 30 days post-transplant, with sessions offered in person or via telehealth. The study will also evaluate the feasibility of patient adherence and follow-up completion.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include cancer patients aged 18 or older who are scheduled for autologous or allogeneic HSCT and can communicate in English, Hindi, or Swahili.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mobility issues or major thought disorders may not benefit from this yoga therapy program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance the well-being and recovery of cancer patients undergoing HSCT by providing culturally relevant psychosocial support.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with culturally tailored interventions, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Cancer patients scheduled to undergo an autologous or allogeneic HSCT at MD Anderson, HCG, or MNH;
2. Age 18 or older;
3. English, Hindi, or Swahili speaking;
4. Able to sign a written informed consent and be willing to follow protocol requirements.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Extreme mobility issues that preclude participating in the YT;
* Major thought disorders such as schizophrenia or uncontrolled bipolar disorder;
* HCT comorbidity score of 3 or higher, excluding cancer diagnoses

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hematopoietic Stem Cell TransplantationCancer
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.