Exploring end-of-life decision-making in young patients with advanced cancer
End-of-life Decision-making Among Young Patients With Advanced Cancer: a Grounded Theory Approach
This study looks at how young people aged 15 to 39 with advanced cancer think and feel about their end-of-life care decisions.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | National Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Taipei) |
| Trial ID | NCT06551831 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to qualitatively explore the thoughts and feelings of young patients aged 15 to 39 with advanced cancer regarding end-of-life care. Using a grounded theory approach, the research will delve into how these patients' perspectives influence their decision-making processes related to their care. The study focuses on individuals who have experienced metastasis and have not responded to first-line curative treatments, providing valuable insights into their unique challenges and considerations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are young adults aged 18 to 39 who have been diagnosed with advanced cancer and are experiencing metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to communicate effectively due to severe psychological distress, cognitive impairment, or physical limitations will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of young patients' needs and preferences in end-of-life care, leading to improved support and decision-making frameworks.
How similar studies have performed: While qualitative studies on end-of-life decision-making exist, this specific focus on young patients with advanced cancer using grounded theory is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * The patient has a solid tumor. * The age at initial cancer diagnosis is between 15 and 39 years. * The patient is at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment. * The patient has cancer with metastasis, either present at initial diagnosis or occurring after treatment or follow-up. * After metastasis, the first-line curative treatment is ineffective. Exclusion Criteria: \- Patients who, for any reason, including severe psychological distress (as determined by the attending physician, psychiatrist, or specialist nurse based on assessments and impressions during routine patient care), cognitive impairment, or physical limitations (such as frailty), are unable to communicate or participate in an interview lasting more than 30 minutes.
Where this trial is running
Taipei
- National Taiwan University Hospital — Taipei, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Pei-Yu Hsu
- Email: 020854@ntuh.gov.tw
- Phone: +886-23123456
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.