Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Interventional Ages 18 and up

EMDR treatment for fear of cancer recurrence in familial melanoma patients

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

Run by Leiden University Medical Center · NCT06767332 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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

More Fear of Cancer Recurrence trials

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment30 (estimated)
SponsorLeiden University Medical Center
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Leiden, South Holland and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedNovember 1, 2023
Main results expectedJuly 1, 2025
Study endsDecember 31, 2025
Registry record updatedJanuary 9, 2025
Trial IDNCT06767332 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a 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.

Probably not a fit

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

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

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.

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

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

  • Leiden University Medical Center
    Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • Leiden University Medical Centre
    Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Chris Hinnen, Dr. — Leiden University Medical Centre
  • Study coordinator: Sanne K. de Bie, Drs.
  • Email: s.k.de_bie@lumc.nl
  • Phone: 0031 71 526 3615

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.