EMDR treatment for fear of cancer recurrence in familial melanoma patients

EMDR for Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Patients with Familial Melanoma: a Waiting List Control Trial

Not applicable Interventional Leiden University Medical Center · NCT06767332

This study is testing if EMDR therapy can help patients with familial melanoma feel less afraid of their cancer coming back.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLeiden University Medical Center Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Leiden, South Holland and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06767332 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in reducing fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) among patients with familial melanoma. The study involves a randomized waiting-list control design, where eligible participants will receive up to four 90-minute EMDR sessions. The primary outcome will be measured using the Cancer Worry Scale (CWS), while quality of life will be assessed with the EORTC questionnaire. The trial aims to provide psychological support to patients who experience high levels of FCR, which can significantly impact their quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 years or older who have been diagnosed with familial melanoma and exhibit high levels of fear of cancer recurrence.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have familial melanoma or those with acute psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce fear of cancer recurrence and improve the quality of life for patients with familial melanoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for EMDR in treating various anxiety-related conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* a score of 16 or higher on the FCRI-NL-SF
* 18 years or older
* diagnosed with familial melanoma

Exclusion Criteria:

* insufficient knowledge of the Dutch language.
* acute psychiatric disease (psychosis, suicidal ideation)
* variable dosis of anxiolytics

Where this trial is running

Leiden, South Holland and 1 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 Familial MelanomaFear of Cancer RecurrenceEye Movement Desensitization and ReprocessingPsychological InterventionEMDRPsychological interventionAnxietyPsycho-oncology
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.