Digital peer support for young adults with cancer
Digital Peer Navigation for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: A Feasibility Study
This study is testing a digital support program to see if it can help young adults who have finished cancer treatment by connecting them with trained peers for guidance and encouragement.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 138 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06193369 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project focuses on adolescents and young adults (AYA) who have completed cancer treatment and face unique challenges in their recovery. It aims to adapt an existing digital peer navigation program, originally designed for prostate cancer patients, to meet the specific needs of AYA cancer survivors. Participants will be matched with trained peer navigators through a digital app, providing them with practical, informational, and emotional support to enhance their post-treatment experience. The study evaluates the feasibility of this approach in overcoming barriers to care and improving patient activation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-40 who have recently completed treatment for breast or testicular cancer, lymphoma, or sarcoma.
Not a fit: Patients with metastatic disease or those receiving palliative end-of-life care may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the emotional and practical support available to young adults recovering from cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that peer navigation can improve care timeliness and reduce healthcare costs, indicating potential success for this adapted approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: 1. Are 18-40 years old; 2. Were diagnosed with breast or testicular cancer, lymphoma or sarcoma between the ages of 15-39 years old; 3. Have completed therapy within the last 12 months; 4. Are comfortable using the internet; 5. Have an active email address OR are willing to create one; 6. Able to read and speak English. Exclusion criteria: 1. Have metastatic disease or are receiving palliative end-of-life care; 2. Are not willing to be randomized.
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- University Health Network — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jackie Bender, PhD — Uhn
- Study coordinator: Jackie Bender, PhD
- Email: Jackie.Bender@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-581-8606
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.